# ATTACHMENT 4

## Center for Disaster Risk Policy Unmanned Aircraft Systems CDRP UAS



# UAS Standard Operating Guide

Emergency Management and Homeland Security Program Center for Disaster Risk Policy Florida State University

Version 1.0 Last Updated: February 2015

Administrative Point of Contact David Merrick dmerrick@fsu.edu 850.644.9961CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

Last Updated: 3/10/15, Version 1.0 2 

### Table of Contents

Section 1 - Introduction .................................................................. 3 1.1 Overview ......................................................................................... 3 1.2 Purpose of th is Document ..................................................................... 3
Section 2 - Administration ............................................................... 4 2.1 - Administrative Control ....................................................................... 4 2.2 - Maintenance of this Document ............................................................. 4 2.3 - Coordination with the Federa l Aviation Administration ................................ 4 Section 3 - Unmanned Aircraft Systems Limitations and Requirements ....... 5 3.1 - Limitations and Requ irements Ov erview .................................................. 5 3.2 - Weight .......................................................................................... 5 3.3 - Performance ................................................................................... 5 3.4 - Preflight Inspection ........................................................................... 5 3.5 - Minimum Crew................................................................................. 5 3.6 - Failsafe Mode .................................................................................. 5 3.7 - Emergency Procedures Defined ............................................................. 6 3.8 - Battery Reserve ............................................................................... 6 3.9 - Aircraft Markings .............................................................................. 6
Section 4 - Cr ewmembers ............................................................... 7 4.1 - Crewmember s Defined ....................................................................... 7 4.2 Pilot-in-Command .............................................................................. 7 4.3 Aircraft Operator ............................................................................... 8 4.4 Visual Observer ................................................................................. 9 4.5 Sensor Operator ............................................................................... 10 4.5 Training and Proficiency ..................................................................... 11 Section 5 - Flight Environment ....................................................... 12 5.1 - Airspace ...................................................................................... 12 5.2 - Line of Sight ................................................................................. 12 5.3 - Altitude ....................................................................................... 12 5.4 - Weather and Time of Day ................................................................. 12 5.5 - Operations Over Pe ople and Property ................................................... 12 5.6 - Yield to Ma nned Aviation .................................................................. 12 5.7 - Privacy ........................................................................................ 13 5.8 - Stationary Ground Control Station ....................................................... 13
Section 6 - Ma intenance ............................................................... 14 6.1 Maintena nce Log .............................................................................. 14 6.2 Bench and Accept ance Testing ............................................................. 14 Section 7 - Permissions and Certifications to Fly ................................. 15 7.1 Certificate of Authorization................................................................. 15 7.2 Notice to Airmen .............................................................................. 15 7.3 Plan of Activities .............................................................................. 15CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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## Section 1 - Introduction

1.1 Overview

The Center for Disaster Risk Policy (CDRP) at Florida State University established the Unmanned Aircraft Syst em research project to assess and improve the usability of small unmanned aircraft systems in the context of state, local, and federal disaster ma nagement. This project examines UAS hardware, software, policies and proced ures, data collectio n methodologies, and crew training and education to deve lop best practices for UAS applications in emergency management.

CDRP is the applied and field research arm of the Emergency Management and Homeland Security Program at FSU, and CDRP faculty and staff have decades of operational emergency management, communication, and information technology experience.

UAS are gaining national attention as a new and exciting technology. Hobbyists and private citizens are acquiring UAS and using them to capture imagery and other data from a vantage point that wa s previously reserved for those with access to manned aircraft. Governments at all levels are expressing interest in how UAS can be applied to emergency management processes, including mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.



### 1.2 Purpose of this Document

This Standard Operating Guide includes all non-aircraft specific information and operational guidelines for CDRP personnel operating a UAS.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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## Section 2 - Administration

2.1 - Administrative Control

This unmanned aircraft system research project is under the administrative control of the Center for Disaster Risk Policy at Florida State University. All research and operations must comply with CDRP polices and procedures, University policies and procedures, as we ll as state, local and federal laws and regulations.

The UAS research project director is the Di rector of the Center for Disaster Risk Policy.



### 2.2 - Maintenance of this Document

This Standard Operating Guide is main tained and updated by the Center for Disaster Risk Policy and approved by the Director of CDRP.



### 2.3 - Coordination with the Fe deral Aviation Administration

For purposes of correspondence with the FAA, to include (but not limited to) aircraft registration, Certificate of Au thorization (COA) applications, incident reporting, operational re porting, etc., this res earch program should be identified as:

Center for Disaster Risk Policy Florida State University 113 Collegiate Loop Bellamy 638 Tallahassee, FL 32306-2250 850.644.9961 uas@cdrp.netCDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

Last Updated: 3/10/15, Version 1.0 5 

## Section 3 - Unmanned Aircraft Systems Limitations and Requirements

3.1 - Limitations and Requirements Overview

All UAS operated by the Center for Disast er Risk Policy will meet the following requirements and limitations, withou t exceptions. These limitations and requirements are in effect to ensure sa fe operation of the UAS and ensure the safety of the crew, onlookers and other personnel not directly involved in the operation.



### 3.2 - Weight

The UAS will weigh less than 55lbs. at take off. This is gross weight including fuel sources (battery) and mission payload.



### 3.3 - Performance

No UAS will exceed 50 knots of ground speed.



### 3.4 - Preflight Inspection

Prior to any UAS flight, the Pilot in Command will conduct a thorough inspection of all components of the UA S, including the air vehicle, ground control station, and communication devi ces. Systems not found to be in condition for safe flight or operation will not be utilized.

Any discrepancies found during pre-flight inspections should be logged in the aircraft logbook.



### 3.5 - Minimum Crew

All UAS operations will be conducted by a Pilot in Command (PIC) and Visual Observer (VO). The PIC has the final au thority and responsibility for the safe operation of the UAS and the safety and well-being of UAS crewmembers.



### 3.6 - Failsafe Mode

All UAS operated by CDRP must be equi pped with a failsafe mode in case of primary control link failure. This mode must return the aircraft to the launch

area.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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### 3.7 - Emergency Procedures Defined

All UAS must have documented emer gency procedures covering (at a minimum): engine or power failure; fire; lo ss of control link; loss of GPS; loss of telemetry data link; loss of video downlink.



### 3.8 - Battery Reserve

Battery voltage is the 'fuel' for electric UAS. With this in mind, all UAS flights will end while the aircraft main tains a 25% battery reserve.



### 3.9 - Aircraft Markings

CDRP will register all UAS with the FAA and mark each UAS with the corresponding registration number (N-number).

If required, all UAS will be marked as 'Experimental'. This marking will be visible and permanent.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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## Section 4 - Crewmembers

4.1 - Crewmembers Defined

CDRP UAS crewmembers constitute any personnel responsible for the safe operation of the unmanned aircraft, support systems, payload, or coordination systems. Crewmembers are classified in to one of the following positions: Pilot-in-Command, Aircraft Operator, Se nsor Operator, Visual Observer.

The required positions for all UAS flights are Pilot-in-Command and Visual Observer. Other positions may be added to a flight if mission requirements and workload dictate.



### 4.2 Pilot-in-Command

The Pilot-in-Command (PIC) flies the airc raft and is the fina l authority on all aspects of the UAS operation. The PIC is responsible for all aspects of the UAS operation and supervises the Visual Obse rver, Aircraft Operator, and/or Sensor Operator.

The Pilot-in-Command must possess a cu rrent FAA Private Pilot Certificate or better.

4.2.1 Pilot-in-Command Knowledge Standards

 Pass FAA Private Pilot Written Exam

 Possess Class 2 FAA Medical Certificate

 Pass CDRP UAS Operator Knowledge Exam . This exam verifies knowledge of:

o FAA regulations and guidance on UAS operations in the National Airspace System

o Weather as it applies to UAS op erations, including operational minimums

o Parts and function of UAS airframe and systems

o UAS terminology

o UAS crew resource management

o CDRP UAS mission management workflow

o Payload capabilities

o Mission planning

o Autopilot and GCS use

o Launch and recovery field assessment

o UAS power managementCDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

Last Updated: 3/10/15, Version 1.0 8 4.2.2 Pilot-in-Command Practical Standards

 If required, possess a FAA Private Pilot Certificate (or better).

 Pass manufacturer specified training program for the UAS

 Demonstrate the following:

o Preflight inspection of the UAS and systems

o Assess launch and recovery areas and methods

o Takeoff (manual control)

o Manual and stabilized level fl ight, maintaining altitude.

o Left and right turns

o Landing approach and go around

o Hover (if equipped)

o Land (manual control)

o Procedures for loss of control link, power failure, loss of telemetry, and fire

o Create automated mapping mission

o Operate the GCS and autopilot to include:

 Execute pre-planned autonomous mission

 Direct the aircraft to a specific location in flight

 Redirect the aircraft to a second location in flight

 Change flight modes

 Restart automated mission

 Describe aircraft telemetry including GPS status, battery and power status, altitude, heading, airspeed, ground speed, and vertical velocity.

o Assemble and disassemble the aircraft

4.2.3 Pilot-in-Command Currency Requirements

Prior to UAS operations for research or applied applications, the PIC will have logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilo t and 3 take offs and 3 landings in the preceding 90 days.



### 4.3 Aircraft Operator

The Aircraft Operator (AO) operates the UAS autopilot and autonomous systems. Using these systems, the AO may control the aircraft using waypoint navigation or guided mode. The AO assists with the launch and recovery of the aircraft and coordinates with th e Sensor Operator if assigned.

4.3.1 Aircraft Operator Knowledge Standards

 Pass FAA Private Pilot Written ExamCDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

Last Updated: 3/10/15, Version 1.0 9  Possess Class 2 FAA Medical Certificate

 Pass CDRP UAS Operator Knowledge Exam . This exam verifies knowledge of:

o FAA regulations and guidance on UAS operations in the National Airspace System

o Weather as it applies to UAS op erations, including operational minimums

o Parts and function of UAS airframe and systems

o UAS terminology

o UAS crew resource management

o CDRP UAS mission management workflow

o Payload capabilities

o Mission planning

o Autopilot and GCS use

o Launch and recovery field assessment

o UAS power management

4.3.2 Aircraft Operator Practical Standards

 If required, possess a FAA Private Pilot Certificate (or better).

 Demonstrate the following:

o Preflight inspection of the UAS and systems

o Assess launch and recovery areas and methods

o Procedures for loss of control link, power failure, loss of telemetry, and fire

o Create automated mapping mission

o Operate the GCS and autopilot to include:

 Execute pre-planned autonomous mission

 Direct the aircraft to a specific location in flight

 Redirect the aircraft to a second location in flight

 Change flight modes

 Restart automated mission

 Describe aircraft telemetry including GPS status, battery and power status, altitude, heading, airspeed, ground speed, and vertical velocity.

o Assemble and disassemble the aircraft



### 4.4 Visual Observer

The Visual Observer (VO) acts as a seco nd set of eyes for the Pilot-in-Command and ensures safe operation of the UAS. This includes ensuring separation of UAS operations from manned aviation activity, enforcing minimum safe distances of bystanders and observers, and safe interaction of the crew. The VO assists with launch and recovery of the aircraft.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

Last Updated: 3/10/15, Version 1.0 10 4.4.1 Visual Observer Knowledge Standards

 Pass CDRP UAS Operator Knowledge Exam . This exam verifies knowledge of:

o FAA regulations and guidance on UAS operations in the National Airspace System

o Weather as it applies to UAS op erations, including operational minimums

o Parts and function of UAS airframe and systems

o UAS terminology

o UAS crew resource management

o CDRP UAS mission management workflow

o Payload capabilities

o Launch and recovery field assessment

o UAS power management

4.4.2 Visual Observer Practical Standards

 Demonstrate the following:

o Preflight inspection of the UAS and systems

o Assess launch and recovery areas and methods

o Procedures for loss of control link, power failure, loss of telemetry, and fire

o Assemble and disassemble the aircraft



### 4.5 Sensor Operator

The Sensor Operator (SO) operates the UAS payload and/or sensors, including EO/IR cameras, digital still cameras, atmospheric sensors, or any other payload. The SO assists with the launch and recovery of the aircraft and coordinates with the Aircraft Operator if assigned.

4.4.1 Sensor Operator Knowledge Standards

 Pass CDRP UAS Operator Knowledge Exam . This exam verifies knowledge of:

o FAA regulations and guidance on UAS operations in the National Airspace System

o Weather as it applies to UAS op erations, including operational minimums

o Parts and function of UAS airframe and systems

o UAS terminologyCDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

Last Updated: 3/10/15, Version 1.0 11 o UAS crew resource management

o CDRP UAS mission management workflow

o Payload capabilities

o Launch and recovery field assessment

o UAS power management

4.4.2 Sensor Operator Practical Standards

 Demonstrate the following:

o Preflight inspection of the UAS and systems, with emphasis on payloads

o Program and control payload systems, including cameras and other sensors

o Assess launch and recovery areas and methods

o Procedures for loss of control link, power failure, loss of telemetry, and fire

o Assemble and disassemble the aircraft



### 4.5 Training and Proficiency

CDRP UAS crew will maintain profic iency through weekly training and proficiency flights.

Pilot-in-Command, Aircraft Operator, an d Visual Observer must demonstrate proficiency in knowledge and practical standards every 90 days.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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## Section 5 - Flight Environment

5.1 - Airspace CDRP UAS Flights will primarily occur in Class G airspace. No operations will be conducted in Class A or Class B airspace . Operations in Class C and Class D airspace will only occur with prior written approval of the FAA.

Operations within 5nm of a non-towere d airport will require written approval from the airport authority prio r to operations commencing.



### 5.2 - Line of Sight

All UAS will be flown within the visual li ne of sight of the Pilot in Command and Visual Observer. Visual line of sigh t must be unaided through optical or electronic means (outside of standard pr escription contact lenses or glasses).



### 5.3 - Altitude

All UAS flights will be conduc ted at or below 400' AGL.



### 5.4 - Weather and Time of Day

All UAS flights will operate at least 500 feet below or 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud.

All UAS flights will be conduc ted when visibility is at least 3 statute miles from the Pilot in Command and Visual Observer.

All UAS flights will occur during daylight hours.



### 5.5 - Operations Over People and Property

The UAS will not be operated directly over any person at an altitude that is hazardous to the persons below in the event of a failure of the UAS or associated systems.



### 5.6 - Yield to Manned Aviation

All UAS operations must remain clear of and immediately yield to manned aircraft operations. This includes ultr a-light aircraft, parachutists, balloonists, parasailing activity, hang gliders, etc.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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### 5.7 - Privacy

CDRP UAS will not capture or retain im agery of private property or persons where doing so would violate a reason able expectation of privacy.



### 5.8 - Stationary Ground Control Station

UAS operations will only be conducted from a stationary locations. The PIC or ground control station will not be located in a moving vehicle.CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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## Section 6 - Maintenance

6.1 Maintenance Log

All maintenance performed on UAS will be logged in the UAS airframe logbook. Each entry will include, at a minimum: the person performing the maintenance action, date, description of the maintena nce action, and list of parts replaced.



### 6.2 Bench and Acceptance Testing

Any activity that changes the operatio nal and/or flight characteristics will require that the UAS undergo bench and flight acceptance testing prior to further use.

Bench testing may be accomplished with out propellers or rotors to ensure expected operation of autopilots, contro l surfaces, servos, etc. Bench testing should be performed before flight acceptance testing.

Flight acceptance testing must be perfor med prior to operational or research use. Flight testing should be conducted in a remote and secure location, with a limited crew exposure to the untested aircraft.

Changes to any of these systems requires bench and flight testing:

 Structural components of the airframe

 Motors

 Electronic speed controllers

 Power distribution systems

 Radio control transmitter or receiver

 Autopilot or flight controller

 Propellers (reconfigure only)CDRP UAS Standard Operating Guide

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## Section 7 - Permissions and Certifications to Fly

7.1 Certificate of Authorization

CDRP will obtain a Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Authorization (COA) prior to conducting UAS operations for research or under a Section 333 exemption.



### 7.2 Notice to Airmen

CDRP will request a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) 48 to 72 hours in advance of UAS operations.



### 7.3 Plan of Activities

CDRP will provide a written Plan of Activities to the local FSDO with jurisdiction over the area encompassing the UAS operations. This written plan will be submitted at least 72 hours prior to the commencement of UAS operations. CDRP will also public th e Plan of Activities on the website http://cdrp.net.

The Plan of Activities will include (at a minimum):

 Dates and times of UAS operations

 Contact name and phone number for the UAS pilot-in-command

 Make, model and N-number of the UAS to be flown

 Name and FAA certificate number of the UAS PIC

 Statement that the CDRP has obtain ed permission from the property owners and/or local officials to conduct the flight.

 Signature of exemption holder or representative

 A description of the flight activity, including maps and diagrams of the activity.