1

November 24

, 2015

Attn: U. S. Department of Transportation Docket Operations West Building Ground Floor, Room w12

- 140 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY REQUEST AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF THE CODE
OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF DJI Phantom
3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112

- 95)

Nick Sferra Assistant Safety Manager Schnabel Foundation Company

45240 Business Court Suite 250 Sterling Virginia 20166
703

- 742

- 0020 (V) 703

- 742

- 3319 (F)
Nsferra@schnabel.com2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS...................................................................................3

SUMMARY...................................................................................................................... .....4

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER....................................................4

BACKGROUND................................................................................................................... .4

BASIS FOR PETITION.........................................................................................................5

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER.......................

............ ...................................... 6

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH SCHNABEL FOUNDATION

COMPANY SEEKS EX EMPTION...................

........................................ ... ... ............... ....... 7

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY SEEKS AND THE

REASON SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY SEEKS THE R ELIEF...

....... ...... . 1 0

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY ’S REQUEST

WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST

......................... ........ ................... .................. .1 2

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION TO SCHNABEL FOUNDATION

COMPANY WOULD NOT ADVE RSELY AFFECT SAFETY.....

............................ ......... 1 4

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN TH E FEDERAL REGISTER....

....... . ... .. . .. 25

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS A VAILABLE TO

SUPPORT SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY ’S R EQUEST...

.......... ......... ... . .. . . ... 25

CONCLUSION............................................................................................................

. ... . ..... 2 5

APPENDICES...............................................................

. .................. . ....... 263 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation

GCS Ground Control Station

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot In Command

Section 333 FAA Modernizatio n and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)

SO Safety Observer

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 SUMMARY

Schnabel Foundation Company seeks exe mption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System ( DJI Phantom 3) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA

Moderniz ation and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit Schnabel Foundation Company to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and pho tography of construction sites, civil landscape s and events over certain areas of the United States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Schnabel Foundation Company has over two years of experience in creating our own marketing and training videos. The employee responsible for creating these videos has over 10 years of experience in video production and editing. Over the last two years Schnabel Foundation Company has created four training videos and has created several marketing videos. The objective of Schnabel Foundation Company and our Unmanned A ircraft System (DJI Phantom 3) aerial operations is to provide a more entertaining training, high

- quality production system for a variety of governmental, commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting

• Construction sites before and after

 Jobsite Monitoring

 Video Production

• Private training

Schnabel Foundation Company has safely flown small RC electric quadcopters recreationally for approximately 1 year without incident.

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3

, UAS

Schnabel Foundation Company seeks an exemption to operate DJI Phantom 3 system without compensation in the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of approximately 2.8 lb. while having

a diagonal dimension of 2 3.2” , a maximum speed of approximately 16.4’fps and a maximum flying height of 400'

. The DJI Phantom 3 is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors.

The DJI Phantom 3 that will be operated by Schnabel Founda tion Company will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft , as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration , and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking

.5

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, Schnabel Foundation Company , pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems , hereby p etitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3

, UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Schnabel Foundation Company operation of DJI Phantom 3

UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 3 33 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Accordingly, Schnabel Foundation Company requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate.

Schnabel Foundation Company submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. Schnabel Fou ndation Company will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and D JI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Schnabel Foundation Company will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and

l imitations: Pilot in command , is requested by Schnabel Foundation Company to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vess els, vehicles and structures.

Schnabel Foundation Company seeks relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private p ilot privileges and limitations, because Schnabel Foundation Company will follow the p r o posed Drone rules and regulations: Overview of Small UAS Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. Schnabel Foundation Company will mandate that anyone who will fly a UAS will pass a written exam , practical test, and follow all p ro posed regulations.

Schnabel Foundation Company seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft

airworthiness

, because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Schnabel Foundation Company submits that they will ensure that the DJI Pha ntom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight.6

Schnabel Foundation Company also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121,

entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude

info rmation, combined with Schnabel Foundation Company’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3

UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 4 00 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent
to Section 91.121.

Additionally, Schnabel Foundation Company seeks an e xemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. Schnabel Foundation Company submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteoro logical conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 23 minutes . Battery power indicators are also able to show exactly how much battery power is left, as well as how much time is needed to return safely back to point of takeoff

.
In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Schnabel Foundation Company provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name a nd Address Of The Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is:

Nick Sferra Assistant Safety Manager Schnabel Foundation Company

45240 Business Court Suite 250 Sterling Virginia 20166

703

- 742

- 0020 (V) 703

- 742

- 3319 (F)

Nsferra@schnabel.com7

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption.

1. Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command

, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part:

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft.

(b) A privat e pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if

—
(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensati on or hire.

2. Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , subsection (a), states the following:

(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.

3. Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

91.121.

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , subsection (a), states the following, in part:

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintai n the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating

--
(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to

--

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within

10 0 nautical miles of the aircraft;

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station;

or

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure.8

4. The SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , subsection

(b), states the following:

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first poin t of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 minutes.

5. The SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required , subsection (a), states the following: Each owner or operator of an aircraft

—
(a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancie s repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]

6. The SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY Seeks Exemption From The Requirements

Of Section 91.407(a)(1)

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding,
or alteratio n , subsection (a)(1), states the following:

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless

--
(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43 .7 of this chapter[.]

7. The SCHNABEL FOUNDATION COMPANY Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), states the following:

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had

--
(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.9

8. Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sectio ns 91.417(a) And 91.417(b).

Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records , subsections (a) and (b), state the following:

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following reco rds for the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section:

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records

of the 100

- hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved inspections, as appropriate, for each a ircraft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include

--
(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and

(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft

for return to service.

(2) Records containing the following information:

(i) The total time in service of the airfram e, each engine, each propeller, and each

rotor.

(ii) The current status of life

- limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance.

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be ov erhauled on a specified time basis.

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained.

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required.

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major

alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances.10 (b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed:

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until

the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the work is performed.

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and

transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold.

(3) A list of defects fur nished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.

C. The Extent Of Relief Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks And The Reason Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks The Relief.

1. Extent Of Relief Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks And The Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limita tions: Pilot in

command , is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight

hour and currency requirements, to c onduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation

or hire.

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection wit h any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

As set forth more fully below, Schnabel Foundation Company submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless

that PIC has passed a written exam and practical test

, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, Schnabel Founda tion Company submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Schnabel Foundation Company’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation

or hire.

2. Extent Of Relief Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks And The Reason Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).11

Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , is requested to the extent required

to allow Sc hnabel Foundation Company to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e

., Schnabel Foundation Company Drone Policy , Monthly Maintenance Log, and

DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual).

Schnabel Foundation Company seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Schnabel Foundation Company will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI

Phantom 3 Manual ) prior to every flight, and further, determine tha t the aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

3. Extent Of Relief Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks And The Reason Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , may be required to allow flight operations

of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude inf ormation from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Schnabel Foundation Company seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight.

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Phantom

3 UAS are equipped with a bar ometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides

the PIC with altitude information of the UA on the heads

- up display of the GCS.

4. Extent O f Relief Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks And The Reason Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total

duration of 23 minutes. Schnabel Foundation Company seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom

3 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations

that Schnabel Fo undation Company proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.12

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , the DJI
Phantom 3 operating documents, and Schnabel Foundation Company’s proposed operating

limitatio ns, ensure that Schnabel Foundation Company will safely operate the battery powered DJI
Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes

.

5. Extent Of Relief Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks And The Reason Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, Schnabel Foundation Company requests relief from these

Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require airwor thiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Schnabel Foundation Company will use trained technicians to perform maintena nce, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., Schnabel Foundation Company Drone Policy , Mont hly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Schnabel Foundation Company will document and maintain all

maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

.

D. The Reasons Why Granting Schnabel Foundation Company Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It W ould Benefit The Public As A Whole.

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Schnabel Foundation Company to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and pho tography of

construction sites over certain are as of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of Schnabel Foundation Company’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and economical

alternative to the mann ed aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use

of a DJI Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground.13

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft w ill be reduced. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, w ill greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately

20

- 30 gallons per hour o f leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS , while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UAS are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine.

By using th e DJI Phantom 3 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely eliminat ed. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS (weighing approximately 2 .8 pounds at their maximum gross weight with diagonal dimension of 23.2 inches

, and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingsp an of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons).

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 U AS are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI
Phantom 3 UAS will allow United States based companies, like Schnabel Foundation Company

, to remain competitive and contribut e to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded aviation fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative

tech nology in order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operati onal cost of a traditional

manned aircraft.

By operating the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, companies such as Schnabel Foundation Company , can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees and14

contractors, which will ult imately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenu es; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both

in the United States and abroad.

4. There Are No Privacy Issues.

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, Schnabel Foundation Company’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be op erated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., Schnabel Foundation Company’s Drone Policy , Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, an d in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided By The

Rule From Which Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 UA S Meet The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333.

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Schnabel Foundation Company’s operation of the DJI
Phantom 3 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users o f the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part:

(a) In General.

-- Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the plan and rulemaking required by section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by section 334 of this Act.

(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

-- In making the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum

--
(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users15 of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and

(2) w hether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1).

(c) Requirements f

or Safe Operation.

-- If the Secretary determines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.

In seeking this exemption, Schnabel Foundation Company submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the

characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; (b) the p ilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability.

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS

. The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 Use r Manual , att ached hereto as Appendix A

.

ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Global Positioning Modes Enable The UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided
at pages 11 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual att ached hereto as Appendix A

.

iii. The DJI P hantom 3 UAS Are Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 second s, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown.

A complete description of the Failsaf e Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth at pages

12 through 14 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A

.

iv. The DJI Phantom 3 GCS And Its Operation.

A complete description of the operat ion and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 23 through 29 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual. DJI
Phantom 3 User Manual is att ached hereto as Appendix A

.16

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.

Schnabel Foundation Company will have a certified pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom

3 UAS . Additionally, a safety observer will assist him at all times during flight time.

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating

Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, Schnabel Foundation Company proposes to commercially operate DJI
Phantom 3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations

.

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this
grant.

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of aerial video and photography.

3. The UA S may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 4 00 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents

.

5. The UAS must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA

- issued airman medical certificate.

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted.

7. All operations must utilize a safety obser ver (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. T he PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents.

8. The SO must not perform any other du ties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments.

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessibl e during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption and the17 procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limi tations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s res ponsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the opera tor determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) may be contacted if questions

ari se regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents.

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations

mus t be properly documented in the aircraft records.

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. Th e PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records.

12. The pre

- flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant

sect ions of the operating documents.

13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements.

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work accompli shed, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS to service.

15. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety

Bulletins.

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the corre ctive action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

17. The PIC must pass a written exam and practical test and be familiar with Schnabel Foundation Company’s Drone Policy

.18 18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC has successfully passed Schnabel Foundation Company’s written exam , practical test and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be

oper ated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures

. 19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations mu st be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not

authorized.

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as

denoted on a current FAA

- published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in

accordance wit h a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request.

21. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre

determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in

accordance with the operating documents.

23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast

weather condit ions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining.

25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be con ducted in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial number, regis tered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identification (N

Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.19 27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for ope ration and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official
upon request.

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

30. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating

persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or;

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of o perating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and;

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- access property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight

to be conducted.

33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.20

Schnabel Foundat ion Company submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom

3 UAS u nless that PIC has passed a written exam and practical test and is familiar with Schnabel Foundation Company’s Drone Policy , and that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom

3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive an d emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Considering Schnabel Foundation Company’s proposed area of operations, and the operating

limitations set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements ( See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary t o safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, Schnabel Foundation Company submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Schnabel Foundation Company’s speci fic proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 110 67, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

Schnabel Foundation Company will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless

that PIC has passed a written exam and practical test and is familia r with Schnabel Foundation Company’s Drone Policy . The PIC of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS must operate in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, t he PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes).

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an eq uivalent level of safety during Schnabel Foundation Company’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follo ws:

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total ti me as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi

- rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and21

model time may be included in the 10 hours of multi

- rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flig ht

- hour requirements in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in co mpliance with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and experie nce

- building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, Schnabel Foundation Company will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has passed a written exam and practical test and is familiar with Schnabel Foundation Company’s Drone Policy , and that the PIC is able to safely operate th e DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and

structures.

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every flight, Schnabel Foundation Company will ensure that the DJI Pha ntom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and as stated

in the conditions and limitations herein.

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific to UAS, in

circu mstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

4. Reasons Why An Exem ption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the

altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS e quipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with Schnabel Foundation Company’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight,22

at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight,

a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground level.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063,

110 64, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight op erations. Accordingly, Schnabel Foundation Company will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes.

Here, as in Exem ption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Fu rthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC

at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approx imately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will descend and land automatically.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversely aff ected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650.

Mor eover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, Schnabel Foundation Company submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by23

Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because Schnabel Foundation Company will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Schnabel F oundation Company’s Drone Policy , Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Schnabel Foundation Company will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.

Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be in spected as prescribed by the operating documents, Schnabel Foundation Company will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals are attached hereto as Ap pendix A and B; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Appendix C.

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Schnabel Foundation Company will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alte rations or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating

documents.

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 9 1.417(b), because all maintenance of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sect ions 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered.

In consideration of Schnabel Foundation Company’s proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

, Schnabel Foundation Company submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions F or Safe Operation.

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions

, Schnabel Foundation Company requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended ope ration of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91 .151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for compe nsation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create24

a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in

the NAS.

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of th e DJI Phantom 3 UAS , since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design features of the aircraft. Section 21.16, entitled Special Conditions , states the follo wing:

If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engi ne or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the F AA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations.

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.

Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe special conditions for Leading Edge’s i ntended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91. 7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

• A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The

Rules From Which Schnabel Foundation Company Seeks Exemption:

Schnabel Foundation Comp any seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption Schnabel Foundation Company

Seeks:

This exemption will permit Schnabel Foundation Company to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

• Any Additional Information, Vie ws, Or Arguments Available To Support Schnabel Foundation Company’s Request.

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 201225

(FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS

may operate safely in the NAS. As such, Schnabel Foundation Company’s request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth

above.

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering w hether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification.

As discussed in detail above, Schnabel F oundation Company will operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security.

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, Schnabel Foundation Company seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose o f conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing

the inter ests of the public, by allowing Schnabel Foundation Company to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially within the NAS.

WHEREFORE , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA

Modernization and Re form Act of 2012, Section 333, Schnabel Foundation Company respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91 .409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Leading Edge to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the

United States.

Dated: November 24 , 2015

Respectfully submit ted,

Nick Sferra Assistant Safety Manager Schnabel Foundation Company

45240 Business Court Suite 250 Sterling Virginia 20166
703

- 742

- 0020 (V) 703

- 742

- 3319 (F)
Nsferra@schnabel.com26

Appendices :

A

– Link to DJI Phantom 3 Manual: Click on link below

http://download.dji

innovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professional_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf