Flight

Operations

&

Procedures

Manual

Dacoda Bartels

811 Albertsons Pkwy

Suite C

Broussard, LA 70518
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1.0 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS AND PAGE REVISION 1.0

1.1 Table of Contents

1.2 Page Revision Log

INTRODUCTION 2.0

2.1 Purpose

2.2 Distribution

2.3 Revision Control

GENERAL INFORMATION 3.0

3.1 Management Personnel

3.2 Duties and Responsibilities

OPERATIONS & PROCEDURES 4.0

4.1 General

4.2 Operational Control

4.3 Pilot Qualifications

4.4 Visual Observer (VO) Qualifications

4.5 Sterile Flight Environment

4.6 UAS Operating Parameters and Authorized Personnel

4.7 UAS Operational Requirements
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1.0 TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) SECTION

PREFLIGHT / POST FLIGHT & CHECKLISTS PROCEDURES 5.0

5.1 Preflight

5.2 Authorized Weather Sources

5.3 Weight & Balance

5.4 Post Flight

TECHNICAL INFORMATION & MAINTENANCE 6.0

6.1 General Maintenance

6.2 UAS Technical Data & Limitations

6.3 DJI S1000 UAS Technical Data

6.4 UAS Maintenance

APPENDICES

1. Dacoda Bartels UAS Flight Log

2. Dacoda Bartels UAS Pilot Currency Log

3. Dacoda Bartels UAS Maintenance Log
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1.3PAGE REVISION LOG

Section Pages Revision Date
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SECTION 2: TABLE OF CONTENTS START PAGE #

2.1 Purpose 1

2.2 Distribution 2

2.3 Revision Control 3

2.1 PURPOSE

2.1.1 The main purpose of this manual is to govern how Dacoda Bartels operates and conducts 

business using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for the purpose of scripted, closed-set filming 

for the motion picture and television industry.

2.1.2 The controls, procedures and conditions set forth in this manual are the primary assurance 

that persons on the surface will not be jeopardized.

2.1.3 This manual has been prepared to cover the policies and procedures governing the 

operation of the Flight Department of Dacoda Bartels under its UAS Operations Exemption issued 

by the FAA. This manual will be kept current with revisions as necessary. The purpose of this

manual is to assure the utmost in safety of operation and in the general efficiency of the Flight 

Department. It provides firm guidelines to enable all company personnel to carry out their 

assigned duties and responsibilities in accordance with the company Flight Operations and

Procedures Manual and Dacoda Bartels’ granted FAA operations exemption.

2.1.4 This manual is intended to provide the most practical, efficient and affective operating 

procedures commensurate with the highest feasible degree of safety. It does not, however, 

provide a substitute for sound judgment.

2.1.5 Great care has been taken to assure that this manual is not contrary to any applicable 

Federal Regulations, applicable Foreign Regulations, or Dacoda Bartels’ granted operation 

exemption.
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2.2 DISTRIBUTION

2.2.1 A copy of this manual, or appropriate portions of the manual, will be furnished to all areas of 

responsibility within the company, including but not limited to:

Management Personnel

Flight Crews

Flight Standards District Office (FAA)

2.2.2 One copy of this manual will be maintained in current form at the principal operations base, 

located at:

811 Albertsons Pkwy

Suite C

Broussard, LA 70518

2.2.3 A copy of this manual will be issued (including all changes and additions) to all flight 

crewmembers and some key maintenance and ground personnel. All these recipients are 

required to keep their manual copy up to date with the changes and additions furnished to them.

2.2.4 All Dacoda Bartels’ flight and ground crew must use this manual in the conducting of all 

operations.

2.2.5 Dacoda Bartels’ will require that all UAS pilots be tested at least annually on their 

knowledge of this manual.

2.2.6 Dacoda Bartels has also furnished the Baton Rouge, LA Flight Standards District of the 

Federal Aviation Administration with a current and complete copy of this manual. The Director of 

Operations will furnish the FAA with all changes and additions to this manual in a timely manner.

2.2.7 Dacoda Bartels also keeps a current and complete copy of this manual with each UAV that 

it operates. The Pilot-in-Command will make this manual copy available to ground and flight 

personnel for their use when the UAS is away from home base.
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2.3 REVISION CONTROL

2.3.1 Dacoda Bartels will adopt FAR 135.21(a), whereas revisions will be prepared by the 

Director of Operations. Each revision will have a revision number, date, and page numbers being 

revised. Revisions will be consecutively numbered.

2.3.2 It will be the responsibility of each manual holder to keep his/her manual current as per the 

Page Revision Log in Section 1. A Document Custody Form is required to be on file for those 

personnel issued this manual. In order to facilitate record-keeping and ensure that all manuals 

are current, a Revision Notice will be distributed with each revision and will instruct personnel as 

to which pages are to be removed or replaced. After the new or revised pages have been added 

and the outdated pages removed, the person responsible for this manual will complete the receipt 

portion of the revision notice and either mail or deliver it to the Director of Operations.

2.3.3 All manual revisions will be submitted to the FAA for review prior to being implemented.

2.3.4 Revision control is accomplished in the upper right hand corner of each page. The date 

represents the date the revision became effective and the revision number represents the

revision in which the page was replaced or altered.
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SECTION 3: TABLE OF CONTENTS Start Page #

3.1 Management Personnel 1

3.2 Duties and Responsibilities 2

3.3.2 Director of Operations 2

3.3.3 Chief Pilot 3

3.3.4 Safety Manager 4

3.3.5 UAS Pilot (PIC) 4

3.3.6 Visual Officer / Safety Officer 5

3.3.7 UAS Gimbal Operator 6

3.1 MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

3.1.1 Dacoda Bartels has appointed the following persons to the management positions listed.

A. Director of Operations – Robert Minyard

B. Chief Pilot – Dacoda Bartels

C. Safety Manager – Eddie Weeks
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3.2 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.2.1 Each of the following people has the authority to act for Dacoda Bartels in his/her respective sphere and 

exercises operational control.

3.2.2 Director of Operations – Duties and Responsibilities

A. Ensures that each employee is properly instructed to perform his/her duties and responsibilities.

B. Must be very familiar with UAS operations including flight operations and maintenance.

C. Responsible for overall safety and implements recommendations of the Safety Manager

D. Responsible for the efficiency of company operations.

E. Ensures the Chief Pilot complies with his/her duties and responsibilities.

F. Makes safety recommendations to the Safety Manager.

G. Responsible for initiating, conducting, and terminating each Dacoda Bartels UAS flight. 

(can be delegated to the Chief Pilot)

H. Supervises the Chief Pilot and other Dacoda Bartels UAS personnel.

I. Ensures that all flight operations are conducted safely and in compliance with all Federal Aviation 

Regulations, FAR Exemptions, Dacoda Bartels Flight Operations and Procedures Manual.

J. Has the authority to act for Dacoda Bartels including the signing of FAA correspondence and 

operations specifications.

K. Communicates with the FAA Flight Standards District Office and the National Transportation Safety 

Board. Files all required reports and documents.

L. Devises revisions to this manual as needed, submits the proposed revisions to the FSDO, receives 

confirmation from the FSDO that the revisions are acceptable, and then distributes those revisions to all 

manual holders.

M. Schedules aircraft availability, including scheduling the aircraft for required inspections or maintenance 

items.

N. Coordinates with the Chief Pilot for the timely correction of mechanical irregularities and discrepancies.

O. Issues operations notices as needed.

P. Makes safety recommendations to Safety Manager.
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3.2.3 Chief Pilot – Duties and Responsibilities

A. Reports to the Director of Operations.

B. Must be an FAA licensed Commercial Pilot.

C. Must have extensive knowledge and pilot history as a UAS operator.

D. Responsible for initiating, conducting, and terminating each Dacoda Bartels, UAS flight.

E. Supervises flight crew personnel.

F. Ensures performance of all training activities of flight crew personnel.

G. Assists the Director of Operations in formulating operational policies, coordinates those policies, and 

coordinates operational training.

H. Ensures that all UAS are in compliance with the Dacoda Bartels FAA exemption and operated in 

accordance with the provisions provided and the guidelines addressed in this manual.

I. Disseminates information to all crewmembers pertaining to NOTAMS, TFR’s, Hazardous weather 

conditions and all special security airspace.

J. Maintains proficiency as a UAS pilot.

K. Schedules flight crewmembers, including assigning a UAS pilot.

L. Prepares and maintains proficiency records, pilot files, flight schedules, reports, and correspondence 

pertaining to flight operations activities.

M. Keeps the base copy of this Operations Manual current.

N. Ensures that all flight crew personnel are certified and supervised according to the requirements 

specified in the Dacoda Bartels FAA exemption and in accordance with our own company SOP’s which 

meet and exceed the requirements.

O. Ensures that all Dacoda Bartels UAS are operated at a maximum weight not to exceed 55 lbs.

P. Ensures that all Dacoda Bartels UAS do not exceed 50mph and are operated at or below 400 feet 

AGL.

Q. Ensures that all Dacoda Bartels UAS are operated in daylight conditions and always in line of sight 

to the Pilot.
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3.2.4 Safety Manager – Duties and Responsibilities

A. Must hold an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate.

B. Must have extensive experience with UAS operations and flight experience.

C. Reports to the Director of Operations.

D. Works with the Director of Operations to improve the company’s safety program.

E. Analyze possible safety hazards.

F. Maintains an open form of communication between major production studio safety officers.

G. Attends UAS safety seminars.

3.2.5 UAS Pilot (PIC) – Duties and Responsibilities

61.113 (a) and (b)

A. The Pilot in Command (PIC) must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current third-class 

medical certificate. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 CFR 61.56 in an 

aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his/her pilot certificate.

B. Prior to operations conducted 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), a minimum of 200 flight cycles 

and 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot and a least ten hours logged as a UAS pilot with a similar 

UAS type (single blade or multi-rotor). Prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with 

applicable regulations may satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience building flights can 

also be conducted under this grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight cycles and flight time. During 

training, proficiency, and experience-building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are 

considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from non-participants 

in accordance with 14 CFR 91.119.

C. Prior to operations conducted 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), a minimum of five hours as UAS 

pilot operating the make and model of UAS to be utilized for operations under the exemption and three takeoffs and three landings in the preceding 90 days. Training, proficiency, experience-building, and take-off and 

landing currency flights can be conducted under this grant of exemption to the required flight time and 90 day 

currency. During training, proficiency, experience building, and take-off and landing currency flights all persons 

not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with 

appropriate distance from non-participants in accordance with 14 CFR 91.119.
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D. Prior to any flight operations authorized by the grant of Dacoda Bartels’ exemption, the PIC and VO must 

have successfully completed a qualification process, as outlined in the operator’s manual. As this is a 

requirement stipulated by the operator, the test must be developed and implemented by a qualified person 

designated at the sole discretion of the operator. A record of completion of this qualification process must be 

documented and made available to the Administrator upon request.

E. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure 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, if utilized, must be included in the preflight inspection.

F. The PIC reports to the Chief Pilot.

G. Ensures that the UAS to be operated is in compliance with Dacoda Bartels’ FAA exemption and is operated 

in a way that complies with the provision of the exemption.

H. The PIC shall be in good physical and mental health before any flight.

I. No one can act as PIC within 8 hours after the consumption of any alcoholic beverage.

J. No one may act as PIC of a Dacoda Bartels’ UAS while under the influence of alcohol or any drug that 

affects the persons’ faculties in any way contrary to safety.

3.2.6 Visual Officer (VO)/Safety Officer – Duties and Responsibilities

A. Must have extensive knowledge of UAS operations and Motion Picture set safety procedures.

B. Always positions himself/herself in a position to have full visual line of sight on all UAS operations.

C. Acts as another pair of eyes for the PIC who also maintains visual line of sight at all times.

D. Has a constant, secure, open communication to the PIC and the Gimbal operator at all times and has the 

authority to terminate a flight should he feel that the Operations cannot be completed inside of the authorized 

Dacoda Bartels exemption or if the operations pose any safety hazard to people or property.
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3.2.7 UAS Gimbal Operator – Duties and Responsibilities

A. Must have extensive knowledge of UAS Operations and understand all aspects of the Gimbal being 

carried by the UAS.

B. Has a constant, secure, open communication to the PIC and the VO at all times and has the authority 

to terminate a flight should he/she feel that the operations cannot be completed inside of the authorized 

Dacoda Bartels exemption or if the operations pose any safety hazard to people or property.
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SECTION 4: TABLE OF CONTENTS Start Page #

4.1 General 1

4.2 Operational Control 2

4.3 Pilot Qualifications 3

4.4 Visual Observer (VO) Qualifications 3

4.5 Sterile Flight Environment 3

4.6 UAS Operating Parameters and Authorized Personnel 4

4.7 UAS Operational Requirements 5

4.1 GENERAL

4.1.1 All Dacoda Bartels UAS flight operations shall be conducted in accordance with this 

manual and the provisions outlaid in the Dacoda Bartels granted FAA exemption.

4.1.2 All UAS operations will take place exclusively within a secured area as set out in the 

MPTOM.

4.1.3 All applicable rules, regulations, exemption provisions, procedures and policies will be 

carefully followed unless emergency considerations or very sound judgment recommends

deviation. When confronted with a matter of choice or interpretation in determining a course of 

action where the decisions are a matter of judgment, the safer alternative will always be chosen.

4.1.4 Economic or service considerations cannot be allowed to compromise safety. However, this 

policy should not be interpreted as an invitation to disregard cost. If the company is to succeed, 

all personnel must continually seek the most efficient and economical means of operation; 

however, it is to be interpreted as firm and standing instruction to the effect that safety and 

compliance with all safety regulations will always, without exception, take precedence over 

economic and all other considerations.

4.1.5 The policies and procedures contained herein provide basic operational philosophies and 

include general procedures and regulations applicable to all Dacoda Bartels pilots and 

operations personnel.
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4.2 OPERATIONAL CONTROL

4.2.1 Operational Control is defined in FAR 1 as “the exercise of authority over initiating, 

conducting, and terminating a flight.” Operational Control is exercised through both active and 

passive means. Passive control consists of developing and publishing policies and procedures for 

operational control personnel to follow. In the performance of their duties and assuring adequate

information and facilities are available to conduct the planned operation. Active control consists of 

making those decisions and performing those actions necessary to operate a specific flight such 

as crew scheduling, reviewing NOTAMs, and flight planning.

4.2.2 Operational Control systems vary with the type of operation authorized. In accordance with 

company policy, the major responsibility for operational control is with the Director of

Operations, Chief Pilot, or a designee. The Director of Operations may delegate the active control 

of flight to the pilot in command but always retains full responsibility.

Tier 1 Operational Control: Director of Operations/Chief Pilot Responsible For:

A. Determine that the crew and UAS are legal for flight.

B. Initiating, conducting, and terminating all Dacoda Bartels flights.

Tier 1 Operational control can be delegated to a PIC, but the Director of Operations/Chief Pilot 

retains responsibility

Tier 2 Operational Control: Pilot in Command

A. Determine the mission can be done safely and legally, based on pre-flight planning 

(weather, performance, weight & balance, aircraft inspections/components, etc.

4.2.3 We do not engage in franchising or sharing of our company’s authority for the conduct of 

operations under our operations specifications, to or with any person or entity.

A. We do not use any DBA.

B. We do not transfer, surrender, abrogate, or share operational control responsibility to or with 

any other party.

C. Each of our pilots is listed by name and airman certificate number at our principle base of 

operations.
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4.3 PILOT QUALIFICATIONS

4.3.1 Pilot in Command (PIC) will possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current 

third-class medical certificate. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 

14 CFR 61.56 in aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his/her pilot certificate.

4.3.2 Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar 

operations), PIC must have accumulated and logged a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 25 hours 

of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot and at least ten hours logged as a UAS pilot with a similar 

UAS type (single blade or multi-rotor).

4.3.3 Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar 

operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged a minimum of five hours as UAS pilot 

operating the make and model of UAS to be utilized for operations, with three landings in the 

preceding 90 days.

4.4 VISUAL OBSERVER (VO) QUALIFICATIONS

4.4.1 The Visual Observer must have extensive knowledge of UAS operations.

4.4.2 The Visual Observer must be a Dacoda Bartels designated approved crew member and 

not a person assigned by productions.

4.4.3 The Visual Observer must be efficient in radio communications and able to recognize any 

unsafe or unapproved operations. In addition to having the operational control ability to terminate 

the operations.

4.5 STERILE FLIGHT ENVIRONMENT

4.5.1 It is understood that prior to each mission the PIC is responsible for ensuring the flight 

environment is free of all distractions and safety hazards.

4.5.2 A call must be made on the production company’s communication system, advising all 

production personnel that a UAS is about to takeoff and that no person is allowed to enter the 

safe zone. In addition, during flight all persons must maintain “radio silence” unless a safety 

hazard exists.

4.5.3 All Dacoda Bartels UAS crew members are required to turn off all personal electronics or 

any devise that could cause a distraction during operations.
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4.6 UAS OPERATING PARAMETERS AND AUTHORZED PERSONNEL

91.119(c)

4.6.1 The UAS may not be operated directly over any person except authorized and consenting 

production personnel or below an altitude that is hazardous to persons or property on the surface 

in the event of a UAS failure or emergency.

4.6.2 Dacoda Bartels, Chief Pilot/PIC and the designated production and security personnel will 

maintain a secure parameter for flight operations to ensure that no unauthorized persons are 

allowed within 100 feet of the flight operations.

4.6.3 All Dacoda Bartels UAS flights will be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the pilot 

and/or VO. All UAS flights will be limited to a maximum altitude of 400 feet AGL and only 

consenting production personnel will be allowed within 100 feet of the UAS operations.

4.6.4 The 100 foot radius may be reduced to 30 feet based upon an equivalent level of safety 

determination, as stated in Dacoda Bartels MPTOM, with the advance permission of the local 

Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). An equivalent level of safety may be determined by 

evaluating the filming flight operations area as to the degree of protection provided by, terrain 

features, buildings, etc. that will provide a safety barrier to the, non-participating public and/or 

property in the event of unplanned debris being dispelled.

4.6.5 The primary consideration remains the conduct of flight operations that do not 

endanger the non-participating public or property.

4.6.6 The UAS may not operate in Class B, C, or D airspace without written approval from the 

FAA. The UAS may not operate within 5 nautical miles of the geographic center of a non-towered 

airport 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 with 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.

4.6.7 The UAS will 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 medical certificate.

4.6.8 All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS 

requirements, as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO and PIC must be 

able to communicate at all times.
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4.7 UAS OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

91.151(a), 91.121

4.7.1 All UAS and their respective equipment must be checked for any damage, ware, or 

malfunctions prior to arriving on job site. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to 

ensure it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe

operation of the UAS, the UAS 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, if utilized, must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations 

must be properly documented in the UAS records.

4.7.2 The PIC must refer to the pre-take-off check list before the UAS is operative.

4.7.3 Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point will be established and confirmed for 

accuracy by the UAS PIC. Once the UAS is placed in the designated landing and departure zone, 

the UAS crew must ensure that the flight computer records the altitude and the exact GPS 

latitude and longitude. This perimeter must be set so the PIC is provided altitude information via a 

digitally encoded telemetric data feed, which downlinks from the UAS to a ground-based on-dashscreen display. The altitude information will be generated by the equipment installed on board the 

UAS as specified using GPS triangulation.

4.7.4 If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UAS will return to a predetermined location within the security perimeter and land or be recovered as programmed by a 

designated technician or UAS crewmember. Dacoda Bartels UAS carry the DJI Flight Computer

which is preprogrammed with multiple fail safe modes. If at any time the UAS loses the link to the 

PIC’s controller, the UAS will enter its failsafe mode and return to the designated safe and secure 

takeoff and landing zone. In the event that Dacoda Bartels UAS loses satellite or GPS 

information, a programmed LED warning light will alert the crew to the issue. The crew can than 

manually fly the UAS to the safe landing zone to trouble shoot the error.

4.7.5 If an emergency should present itself at any time throughout the flight, the PIC has the 

option of starting a failsafe which will allow the UAS to return to its recorded start position. This 

emergency could consist of an accidental loss of visual contact or a situation where the PIC is

physically unable to remain in control of the UAS.

4.7.6 Each UAS operation will be completed within 30 minutes flight time or with 25% battery 

power remaining, whichever occurs first.

4.7.7 The UAS will remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned operations and 

activities at all times. (Including, but not limited to, ultralight vehicles, parachute activities, 

parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.).

4.7.8 UAS operations will not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR 1.1. All operations 

will be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights under special visual flight 

rules (SVFR) are not authorized.
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4.7.9 The UAS will not be operated by the PIC from any moving platform or vehicle.

4.7.10 The UAS will not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally 

from a clouds or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

4.7.11 All Dacoda Bartels UAS’s will be marked in an obvious location with the word 

“Experimental” and with its respective serial number so a pilot, observer, and others working with 

the UAS will see the identification.

4.7.12 All documents required under 14 CFR 91.9 and 91.203, as applicable, will be available to 

the PIC at the ground control station of the UAS anytime the UAS is operating. These documents 

will be available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

4.7.13 For all UAS operations, Dacoda Bartels management personnel will obtain an Air Traffic 

Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver. Management will request a Notice to Airman 

(NOTAM) to go into effect not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to 

the operations.

4.7.14 Any 1) incident, 2) accident, or 3) flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the 

Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) 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. Further flight operations may not be conducted 

until the incident, accident, or transgression is reviewed by AFS-80 and authorization to resume 

operations is provided.
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SECTION 5: TABLE OF CONTENTS Start Page #

5.1 Pre-flight Procedures 1

5.2 Authorized Weather Sources 3

5.3 Weight and Balance 3

5.4 Post Flight 4

5.1 PRE-FLIGHT PROCEDURES 91.103(a)

5.1.1 Prior to any UAS flight operation, the PIC will do a thorough inspection of at least the 

following components:

A. Ensure all booms and their attach points are free from damage and securely fastened.

B. Ensure all propellers are balanced, undamaged, secured correctly to each motor.

C. Check the condition of all motor mounts for wear and properly tightened fasteners

D. Ensure all electronic speed controls are properly connected and protected from the elements

E. Check for damaged, loose wires, and broken or damaged soldering connections

F. Look for damaged conduit and exposed wire on all electronics

G. Ensure that the GPS antenna is firmly locked into position

H. All double sided tape and fasteners are secure

I. Check the operation of the landing gear and the servos and linkages that drive them

J. Ensure the transmitter is fully charged and all switched are in the correct mode

K. Verify that the link is established between the controller and the UAS

L. Use the designated UAS support laptop to access the UAS flight computer and check all 

parameters and fail safes per the manufacture’s recommendations.

M. Ensure that no flight electronics are contaminated or appear to be water damaged

N. Confirm that radio communications are established with the UAS crew
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O. All Antennas are set in the correct orientation

P. Remove lens cap

Q. Check battery voltage on all batteries to be used and ensure they are securely fastened

R. Check CG

S. Check LED indicator lights for correct flight computer operation

5.1.2 The PIC is responsible for completing a safety brief prior to a mission with the entire 

production crew in attendance. All operations should be discussed as well as emergency and

precautionary measures.

5.1.3 An in depth flight brief shall be discussed with all parties directly involved in the flight activity

which will include the PIC, Gimbal Operator, the VO, the 1st AD, the Director, any emergency

personnel on site, production security, and an assigned FSO (Fire Safety Officer) if available.

5.1.4 This brief should include radio communications, emergency shutdown procedures, and use 

of hand signals if required.

5.1.5 The DO and the Chief Pilot may assist the PIC in determining if weather conditions are safe 

and fall inside the Dacoda Bartels operation exemption

5.1.6 All flight operations will be conducted under Visual Meteorological

Conditions (VMC). No flights will be conducted under Special VFR

Conditions (SVFR) and Dacoda Bartels will not be operated less than 500ft below or less than 

2,000ft horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 miles from the PIC.

5.1.7 Operations in high winds will be at the discretion of the PIC. No flight will commence if wind 

conditions create danger or controllability issue for the pilot.

5.1.8 When determining wind limitations, the PIC will take into consideration terrain features, 

obstructions, buildings, and safety barriers.
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5.2 AUTHORIZED WEATHER SOURCES

5.2.1 Dacoda Bartels may use, but is not limited to, the following weather sources:

A. Sources approved by the NWS

B. NWS Field Facilities

C. Flight Service Stations (FSS)

D. Supplemental Aviation Weather Reporting Stations (SWARS)

E. Limited Aviation Weather Reporting Stations (LAWRS)

F. Automated Surface Observations

5.3 WEIGHT & BALANCE

5.3.1 The Center of Gravity (CG) is critical to the efficient and safe operation of the UAS. When 

components are shifted, the CG will always be altered and must be checked and rebalanced.

5.3.2 The main components on the UAV which are moved on a regular basis are the Camera 

Gimbal and the batteries. The CG must be tested before every flight by lifting the UAS with 

fingers on the bottom of the arms. Check each pair of opposite arms. The CG should be no more

than 2 mm off in any pair of booms tested. The closer the CG is to the centerlines of the arms the 

more efficient and stable the UAS will be.

5.3.3 Weight is critical to the operation of the UAS. Great care must be taken to weight the aircraft 

after any changes to ensure it is below its maximum weight and the 55 lbs weight limitation.
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5.4 POST FLIGHT PROCEDURES

5.4.1 After each flight the UAS should be checked for any signs of damage or wear.

5.4.2 The Dacoda Bartels UAS Flight Log Form (See Attached Flight Log Form) will be 

completed for maintenance functions and if a discrepancy exist, it must be recorded on this flight 

log.

5.4.3 All gear must be packaged and batteries disconnected from all UAS systems and 

components.

5.4.4 Batteries must be returned to storage voltage to avoid unnecessary wear and tear and 

prolong battery life. This must be done under the supervision of a designated drone technician or 

the PIC.

5.4.5 Communication with either the DO or the Chief Pilot must take place at the completion of a 

job so that the company can account for its crew and UAS equipment. Any abnormal or 

emergency situation must be reported to the DO, Chief Pilot, and safety officer immediately.
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SECTION 6: TABLE OF CONTENTS Start Page #

6.1 GENERAL MAINTENANCE 1

6.2 UAS TECHNICAL DATE & LIMITATION 2

6.3 DJI S1000 UAS TECHNICAL DATA 3

6.4 UAS MAINTENANCE 5

6.1 GENERAL MAINTENANCE

91.405(a)(1),

91.407(a)(1),

91409(a)(1) and (2),

91.417 (a) and (b)

6.1.1 In lieu of actual specific maintenance requirements and instruction, Dacoda Bartels

management personnel will adopt an “on condition” maintenance program for its UAS. Dacoda 

Bartels will immediately follow and adopt any manufactures recommendations, instructions, and 

procedures when and if those instructions and procedures become available.

6.1.2 Dacoda Bartels management personnel will be responsible for the airworthiness of all 

Dacoda Bartels UAS’s. This will include the airframe, motors, rotors, accessories, and installed 

appliances.

6.1.3 All maintenance, preventative maintenance, and alterations of the UAS will be performed in 

good maintenance practices and documented on the maintenance form (see attached)

Maintenance Log Form.

6.1.4 Following any maintenance, appropriate entries will be made on the Maintenance Log Form 

and maintained in the permanent record file of the appropriate UAS.

6.1.5 Any defective or broken parts replaced will be properly disposed of in order ensure that the 

part removed will be never be reused.
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6.1.6 An operational flight check will be made following any maintenance operation that could 

change the flight characteristic of the UAS.

6.1.7 The pilot in command shall review the UAS maintenance log prior to any and all flight 

activity for disposition of discrepancy.

6.1.8 All UAS replacements parts, if required, will be of the same make, model, and type to 

ensure the UAS’s safety and continuity.

6.1.9 The pilot in command is responsible for determining whether the UAS is in condition for 

“SAFE” flight. He/she will not operate the UAS unless it is in airworthy condition and every 

component installed is in working order.

6.2 UAS TECHNICAL DATA & LIMITATION

6.2.1 Dacoda Bartels operates 1 unmanned aerial systems for the purpose of aerial photography 

of scripted, closed-set filming for the motion picture and television industry.

6.2.2 Dacoda Bartels UAS do not carry crew nor do they carry any explosives materials or 

flammable liquids fuels.

6.2.3 UAS operations will only take place exclusively within a secured area as set described in 

the MPTOM.

6.2.4 The Dacoda Bartels unmanned aerial system is of proprietary design, conceived and 

constructed by Dacoda Bartels. The system is referred to as the DJI S1000 SN#001, and has 

eight rotors and eight motors in an octocopter configuration.

A. DJI S1000 limitations:

1. This UAS will not exceed 55 pounds (25 Kg), including energy source(s) and equipment.

2. This UAS will never be flown at a ground speed exceeding 50 knots and has the capability to 

provide ground speed measurement on the Gimbal Operators LCD screen.

3. All Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL) 

crossed checked using the system onboard altitude measuring electronics.

4. This UAS is capable and has been tested to fly with one motor and prop and inoperative, in 

case of an abnormal or an emergency situation.

5. This UAS has the ability to return to its starting point or predetermined “home” point should the 

pilot encounter and abnormal or an emergency situation.
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6.3 DJI S1000 UAS TECHNICAL DATA

6.4.1 MOTORS:

A. Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

B. Number of motors: 8

C. Motor type: 41mm x 14mm

D. Motor Model Number: 4114-11

E. Motor KV/RPM: 400

F. Motor max @ 25.2V: 10,000 rpm

G. Motor Max Power: 500 Watts

H. Power rating: 4000 Watts maximum power consumption for all 8 motors

I. Current Max: 100 amps

J. Amp Draw Typical Average: 65 amps

6.3.2 PROPELLERS:

A. Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

B. Material: Composite

C. Number of propellers: 8

D. Propeller model number: DJI 15 x 5.2

E. Number of blades: 2 – folding

F. Propeller Diameter: 15”

G. Propeller Pitch (fixed): 5.2”

H. Max RPM: 10,000 RPM
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6.3.3 ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROLS

A. Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

B. Number of speed controls: 8

C. Speed control model number: DJI 40A OPTO

D. Rating in amps: 40 Amps continuous

E. Signal Frequency: 30 - 450 Hz

F. Drive PWM Frequency: 8 KHz

6.3.4 AUTOPILOT

A. Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

B. Autopilot Model Number: DJI A2

C. Components: GPS/Compass, IMU, Master Controller, Power Distribution System, LED

D. Indicator Lighting System, Data Transceiver, GCS Software

E. Power Consumption: 5W

F. Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C

G. Software Compatible: Windows XP sp3 / Windows 7

H. Hovering Accuracy: Vertical: ± 0.5m; Horizontal: ± 2m
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6.4 UAS MAINTENANCE

6.4.1 Dacoda Bartels, must follow the manufacturer’s UAS aircraft/component, maintenance, 

overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. When unavailable, aircraft 

maintenance/component/overhaul, replacement, and inspection/maintenance requirements will 

be followed per this manual. At a minimum, the flight crew must inspect and determine that all 

components below are in safe and operational order.

A. Actuators/Servos: Security of mounting, freedom of movement, correct travel.

B. Power Distribution Board: Check Connections and security to airframe power plant (motors); 

Freedom of movement, proper direction of rotation, proper attachment

C. Propellers: Check for cracks or damage and broken or missing pieces

D. Electronic speed controller; Security of mounting and connections Batteries:

E. A Battery checker will be used to check voltage, and condition of cells

F. Transmitter; Proper voltage, secure link to UAS, correct switch positions

G. Any other components as determined by the PIC

6.4.2 The PIC will record any new maintenance items after a flight on the Dacoda Bartels UAV 

Flight log. Until the discrepancy is repaired or corrected the UAS will be grounded from all flight 

activity. Records of all preventative maintenance, repairs, and alterations will be kept at Dacoda 

Bartels’ principle base of operations.

6.4.3 Only designated Dacoda Bartels technicians, management personal, the VO, and the 

gimbal operator will be allowed to handle any Dacoda Bartels UAS. It is always the PIC’s final 

authority to ensure work was completed and the UAS is airworthy.