August 31, 2015

Exemption No. 12680

Regulatory Docket No. FAA−2015−2492

Mr. Arlington Duncan

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC

4906 Wellington Way

Houston, TX 77069

Dear Mr. Duncan:

This letter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our 

decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations of the exemption, 

including the date it ends.

By letter dated June 1, 2015, you petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 

behalf of GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC (hereinafter petitioner or operator) for an 

exemption. The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to 

conduct aerial videography, photography, inspections, data collection, and training1.

See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA describing the proposed operations and

the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption.

The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition 

in the Federal Register because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any 

delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner.

 

1 The petitioner requested authority to conduct UAS training. At this time, the FAA is unable to authorize UAS 

operations for training until a further assessment is completed. When the FAA completes its review, we will 

proceed accordingly and no further action will be required by the petitioner. However, the petitioner is permitted 

to train its own pilot in commands and visual observers in accordance with condition no. 14 and the other 

conditions and limitations in this exemption.
2

Airworthiness Certification

The UAS proposed by the petitioner is a Yuneec Q500 Typhoon.

The petitioner requested relief from 14 CFR part 21, Certification procedures for products 

and parts, Subpart H—Airworthiness Certificates. In accordance with the statutory criteria 

provided in Section 333 of Public Law 112−95 in reference to 49 U.S.C. § 44704, and in 

consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the

aircraft and its operation, the Secretary of Transportation has determined that this aircraft 

meets the conditions of Section 333. Therefore, the FAA finds that the requested relief from 

14 CFR part 21, Certification procedures for products and parts, Subpart H—Airworthiness 

Certificates, and any associated noise certification and testing requirements of part 36, is 

not necessary.

The Basis for Our Decision

You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection2. The FAA has issued grants of 

exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. 

In Grants of Exemption Nos. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 

11109 to Clayco, Inc. (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (see

Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Labs, Inc. (see Docket No. 

FAA−2014−0642), the FAA found that the enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned 

aircraft (UA) with the specifications described by the petitioner and carrying no passengers or 

crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater proportions, carrying crew in 

addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled 

by this exemption is in the public interest.

Having reviewed your reasons for requesting an exemption, I find that—

 They are similar in all material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213;

 The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 

11213 also apply to the situation you present; and 

 A grant of exemption is in the public interest.

Our Decision

In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. 

Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, 

 

2 Aerial data collection includes any remote sensing and measuring by an instrument(s) aboard the UA. 

Examples include imagery (photography, video, infrared, etc.), electronic measurement (precision surveying, RF 

analysis, etc.), chemical measurement (particulate measurement, etc.), or any other gathering of data by 

instruments aboard the UA.
3

delegated to me by the Administrator, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC is granted an 

exemption from 14 CFR §§ 61.23(a) and (c), 61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a), 

91.7(a), 91.119(c), 91.121, 91.151(a)(1), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 

91.417(a) and (b), to the extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform 

aerial data collection. This exemption is subject to the conditions and limitations listed 

below.

Conditions and Limitations

In this grant of exemption, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC is hereafter referred to as 

the operator.

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be 

grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the Yuneec Q500 

Typhoon when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. Proposed operations 

of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this exemption.

2. Operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and television filming are 

not permitted. 

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (100 miles per hour). The 

exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine 

compliance with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at 

airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the 

aircraft manufacturer.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level 

(AGL). Altitude must be reported in feet AGL.

5. The UA 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 or 

U.S. driver’s license.

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within 

the visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used 

to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS 

capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times; 

electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The 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 VO can perform the duties 

required of the VO.
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7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its 

operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this grant of 

exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating 

documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the 

Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and 

limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, 

the conditions and limitations herein 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 responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised 

documents to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. The 

operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension 

or amendment to this grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update 

or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then 

the operator must petition for an amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s 

UAS Integration Office (AFS−80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding 

updates or revisions to the operating documents.

8. 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 prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. 

Functional test flights may only be conducted by a PIC with a VO and must remain at 

least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such 

a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property.

9. The operator is responsible for maintaining and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is 

in a condition for safe operation.

10. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre-flight inspection and determine the 

UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre-flight inspection must account for all 

potential discrepancies, e.g., inoperable components, items, or equipment. 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.

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, 

replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and 

aircraft components.

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

safety bulletins.
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13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, 

commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a 

current FAA airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a 

state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal 

government. 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 or her pilot certificate.

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the 

ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be 

operated under this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC 

qualification flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with 

14 CFR § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs and VOs 

(training, proficiency, and experience-building) and determining the PIC’s ability to 

safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated 

under this exemption are permitted under the terms of this exemption. However, 

training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. 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 nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

15. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All 

operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights 

under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point (ARP) as 

denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not 

denoted with an ARP, the center of the airport symbol as denoted on the current 

FAA-published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s 

management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption 

holder. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available 

to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

17. 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.

18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a 

pre-determined location within the private or controlled-access property.

19. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies.

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

weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the 
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intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minutes or with the reserve 

power recommended by the manufacturer if greater.

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). All 

operations shall be conducted in accordance with an ATO-issued COA. The 

exemption holder may apply for a new or amended COA if it intends to conduct 

operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the attached COA.

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial 

number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification 

(N−Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must 

be as large as practicable.

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and 

any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the 

PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. 

These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement 

official upon request.

24. The UA must remain clear and give way to all manned aviation operations and 

activities at all times. 

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

26. All Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating 

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 in a manner ensuring the safety 

of nonparticipating persons; and

b. The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission 

for operating closer to those objects and the PIC has made a safety assessment of 

the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not 

present an undue hazard.

The PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons are not considered 

nonparticipating persons under this exemption.

27. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property with 

permission from the property owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.
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28. 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.

If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and 

television filming and production, the following additional conditions and limitations apply.

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) 

as documented in this grant of exemption.

30. At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this 

exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight Standards 

District Office (FSDO) with jurisdiction over the area of proposed filming. The 3-day 

notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities 

must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights;

b. Name and phone number of the operator for the UAS aerial filming conducted 

under this grant of exemption;

c. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the on-scene operation of 

the UAS;

d. Make, model, and serial or N−Number of UAS to be used;

e. Name and certificate number of UAS PICs involved in the aerial filming;

f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property owners 

and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the list of those 

who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request;

g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and

h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area, city, 

town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the altitudes 

essential to accomplish the operation.

31. Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating persons 

consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, as specified in the 

exemption holder’s MPTOM.

Unless otherwise specified in this grant of exemption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS 

operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, 

parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.
8

This exemption terminates on September 30, 2017, unless sooner superseded or rescinded.

Sincerely,

/s/

John S. Duncan

Director, Flight Standards Service

Enclosures
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No. _______________

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 

OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS

14 CFR Part 21 subpart H

14 CFR 45.23 (b)

14 CFR 61.113 (a) & (b)

14 CFR 91.7 (a)

14 CFR 91.9 (b) (2)

14 CFR 91.103

14 CFR 91.109

14 CFR 91.119 (c)

14 CFR 91.121

14 CFR 91.151 (a)

14 CFR 91.203 (a) & (b)

14 CFR 91.405 (a)

14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1)

14 CFR 91.409 (a) (2)

14 CFR 91.417 (a) & (b)

CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS 

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112-95)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

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

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

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

BACKGROUND.......................................................................................................................................................5

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

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER..........................................................................................................6

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC SEEKS

EXEMPTION...............................................................................................................................................................6

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC SEEKS AND THE REASON 

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC SEEKS THE RELIEF...........................................................................................6

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’S REQUESTWOULD 

BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ...........................................................................................................................11

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT ADVERSELY 

AFFECT SAFETY.....................................................................................................................................................12

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER.................................................21

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS............................................................22

CONCLUSION.........................................................................................................................................................23

APPENDICES.........................................................................................................................................................24
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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 Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333

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 Landing
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SUMMARY

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 CFR 21 subpart H; 14 CFR 45.23(b); 14 

CFR 61.113(a) and (b); 14 CFR 91.7(a); 14 CFR 91.9(b)(2); 14 CFR 91.103; 14 CFR 91.109; 14 CFR 91.119(c); 14 CFR 

91.121; 14 CFR 91.151(a); 14 CFR 91.203 (a) and (b); 14 CFR 91.405 (a); 14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1) 14 CFR 91.409 (a)(1) 

and (2); 14 CFR 91.417(a) and (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC to operate 

an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video & photography and 

data collection of construction sites, real estate, infrastructure, public & private events, and landscape over 

certain areas of the United States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

UAS Integration Office – Special Rules Coordinator 

Federal Aviation Administration 

U. S. Department of Transportation 

Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590

June 1, 2015 

Re: Petition for Exemption for Use of UAS for Real Estate, Public Interest, Small Business 

Applications Under Section 333, Title 14

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (the “Reform Act”) and 14 CFR 

Part 11, Arlington Duncan and my company, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC, operator of an Unmanned Aircraft 

System (UAS), hereby applies for an exemption from the listed Federal Aviation Regulations (“FARs”) to allow 

commercial operation of its UAS, so long as such operations are conducted within and under the conditions 

outlined herein or as may be established by the FAA as required by Section 333. 

Commercial operation of an UAS, as described herein, which are equipped with camera(s) and sensors, would 

operate in the following manner: 

1. Aerial photography and/or video for public and/or private use including real estate, architecture, 

land surveying, engineering and other related professional activities. 

2. Aerial video and/or photography for public and/or private use including television, public events, 

cinematography and news gathering. 

3. Aerial inspection/photography of residential/commercial structures under contract with the owners 

or local government authority. 

4. Aerial inspection/photography of residential/commercial utility infrastructure including but not 

limited to electrical power lines, wind turbines and cell towers. 

5. Aerial video/photography or providing live video feed to assist with search and rescue operations in 

cases of an emergency or natural disaster only when the local authorities or government has 

requested it by contract or donation. 

6. The ability to offer training to persons individually or belonging to both private and/or public 

organizations that have interests in the use and application of a UAS for the purpose of the safe 

operation of a UAS to enhance the safety of the National Airspace System (NAS) as well as for the 
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protection of the persons and property. 

As described fully below, the requested exemption would permit the operation of a UAS under controlled 

conditions in the NAS that would be a) limited b) controlled c) predetermined and d) will provide safety 

enhancements to the already safe operations in the industry presently using conventional aircraft. Approval 

of this exemption would thereby enhance safety and fulfill the Secretary of Transportation’s (the FAA 

Administrator’s) responsibilities to “....establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems 

in the national airspace system.”

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft System: YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will operate the Yuneec Electric Aviation Model Q500 Typhoon UAS, with a total 

weight of 1700g or 4.75 lbs. The dimensions are 420mm x 420mm x 240mm or 16.54 inches x q6.54 inches x 

9.45 inches. Under still air the maximum speed is no more than 6.7 m/s or 15 mph with a cruising speed of 6.7 

m/s or 15 mph. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON has the ability to hover and move along a vertical and horizontal 

plane simultaneously. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON has four motors, motor model YUNM4234 KV700, powered 

by a 5400 mAh 3s 11.1v Lithium Polymer battery. There are four counter rotating propellers, propeller models 

YUNQ500115A and YUNQ50011B, in use. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON will be controlled with a Yuneec model 

ST10, 10 channel remote controller with an operating frequency of 2.400GHz – 2.483GHz. The live video feed 

will have an operating frequency of 5.728GHz – 5.850GHz. The applicant will operate the UAS in line of sight 

within a closed off and predetermined area owned and/operated by the property representative.

The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS that will be operated by GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC, 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 petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 CFR 

21 subpart H; 14 CFR 45.23(b); 14 CFR 61.113(a) and (b); 14 CFR 91.7(a); 14 CFR 91.9(b)(2); 14 CFR 91.103; 14 CFR 

91.109; 14 CFR 91.119(c); 14 CFR 91.121; 14 CFR 91.151(a); 14 CFR 91.203 (a) and (b); 14 CFR 91.405 (a); 14 CFR 

91.407 (a) (1) 14 CFR 91.409 (a)(1) and (2); 14 CFR 91.417(a) and (b). In consideration of the speed, weight, size, 

and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, GOLD LEAF AVIATION 

LLC’s operation of YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will 

not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

Accordingly, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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. GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that the requested relief is proper since an

equivalent level of safety will be ensured. GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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., the GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Operations 

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON Instruction Manual. Furthermore, GOLD LEAF 

AVIATION LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS.
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Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: 

Pilot in command, is requested by GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive 

and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and 

structures.

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H. As such, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that it will ensure that the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS 

are in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the 

operating documents (i.e., the GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, 

and YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight.

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC provides the following information in support of 

its petition for exemption:

I. Name and Address Of The Petitioner.

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

Arlington Duncan 

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 

4906 Wellington Way 

Houston, TX 77069 

Tel: (281) 397-0898 

Email: bagoman@gmail.com

II. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Seeks Exemptions

14 CFR 21 subpart H; 14 CFR 45.23(b); 14 CFR 61.113(a) and (b); 14 CFR 91.7(a); 14 CFR 91.9(b)(2); 14 CFR 91.103; 

14 CFR 91.109; 14 CFR 91.119(c); 14 CFR 91.121; 14 CFR 91.151(a); 14 CFR 91.203 (a) and (b); 14 CFR 91.405 (a); 

14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1) 14 CFR 91.409 (a)(1) and (2); 14 CFR 91.417(a) and (b)

III. The Extent Of Relief GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Seeks And The Reason GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC

Seeks The Relief.

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (the “Reform Act”) and 14 CFR 

Part 11, Arlington Duncan and my company, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC, operator of an Unmanned Aircraft 

System (UAS), hereby applies for an exemption from the listed Federal Aviation Regulations (“FARs”) to allow 

commercial operation of its UAS, so long as such operations are conducted within and under the conditions 

outlined herein or as may be established by the FAA as required by Section 333. 

Commercial operation of an UAS, as described herein, which are equipped with camera(s) and sensors, would 

operate in the following manner: 

Aerial photography and/or video for public and/or private use including real estate, architecture, 

land surveying, engineering and other related professional activities. 

Aerial video and/or photography for public and/or private use including television, public events, 

cinematography and news gathering. 
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Aerial inspection/photography of residential/commercial structures under contract with the owners 

or local government authority. 

Aerial inspection/photography of residential/commercial utility infrastructure including but not 

limited to electrical power lines, wind turbines and cell towers. 

Aerial video/photography or providing live video feed to assist with search and rescue operations in 

cases of an emergency or natural disaster only when the local authorities or government has 

requested it by contract or donation. 

The ability to offer training to persons individually or belonging to both private and/or public 

organizations that have interests in the use and application of a UAS for the purpose of the safe 

operation of a UAS to enhance the safety of the National Airspace System (NAS) as well as for the 

protection of the persons and property. 

As described fully below, the requested exemption would permit the operation of a UAS under controlled 

conditions in the NAS that would be a) limited b) controlled c) predetermined and d) will provide safety 

enhancements to the already safe operations in the industry presently using conventional aircraft. Approval 

of this exemption would thereby enhance safety and fulfill the Secretary of Transportation’s (the FAA 

Administrator’s) responsibilities to “....establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems 

in the national airspace system.”

14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates 14 C.F.R. §91.203 (a) (1) 

Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, establishes the procedural requirements for the issuance of 

airworthiness certificates as required by FAR §91.203 (a) (1). Given the size and limited operating area 

associated with the aircraft to be utilized by the Applicant, an exemption from Part 21 Subpart H meets the 

requirements of an equivalent level of safety under Part 11 and Section 333 of the Reform Act. The Federal 

Aviation Act (49 U.S.C.§44701 (f)) and Section 333 of the Reform Act both authorize the FAA to exempt 

aircraft from the requirement for an airworthiness certificate, upon consideration of the size, weight, speed, 

operational capability, and proximity to airports and populated areas of the particular UAS. In all cases, an 

analysis of these criteria demonstrates that the UAS operated without an airworthiness certificate, in the 

restricted environment and under the conditions proposed will be at least as safe, or safer, than a 

conventional aircraft (fixed wing or rotorcraft) operating with an airworthiness certificate without the 

restrictions and conditions proposed. 

The UAS to be operated hereunder is less than 55 lbs. fully loaded, carries neither a pilot nor passenger, 

carries no explosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and operates exclusively within a secured and 

designated area. Unlike other civil aircraft, operations under this exemption will be tightly controlled and 

monitored by both the operator and under the requirements and in compliance with local public safety 

requirements. These safety enhancements provide a greater degree of safety to the public and property 

owners than conventional operations conducted with airworthiness certificates issued under 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H. 

Lastly, application of these same criteria demonstrates that there is no credible threat to national security 

posed by the UAS, due to its size, speed of operation, location of operation, lack of explosive materials or 

flammable liquid fuels, and inability to carry a substantial external load. 

14 C.F.R. § 45.23 (b). Marking of the Aircraft 

The regulation requires when marks include only the Roman capital letter "N" and the registration number is 

displayed on limited, restricted or light-sport category aircraft or experimental or provisionally certificated 

aircraft, the operator must also display on that aircraft near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station, 

in letters not less than 2 inches nor more than 6 inches high, the words "limited," "restricted," "light-sport," 

"experimental," or "provisional," as applicable. 

Even though the UAS will have no airworthiness certificate, an exemption may be needed as the UAS will 

have no entrance to the cabin, cockpit or pilot station on which the word “Experimental” can be placed. 

Given the size of the UAS, two-inch lettering will be impossible. The word “Experimental” will be placed on 
P a g e | 8

the fuselage in compliance with §45.29 (f). 

The equivalent level of safety will be provided by having the UAS marked on its fuselage as required by 

§45.29 (f) where the pilot, observer and others working with the UAS will see the identification of the UAS as 

“Experimental.” 

14 C.F.R. § 61.113 (a) and (b): Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: Pilot in Command. 

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: 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 conduct 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 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 compensation or hire.

As set forth more fully below, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that an equivalent level of safety will be 

maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS unless that PIC has met 

certain flight-hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either the 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that all flights of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS, conducted by the 

PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s business; and (2) will 

not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire

14 C.F.R. §91.7(a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness. 

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

extent required to allow GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC to determine that the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS are in 

airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating 

documents (i.e., the Gold Leaf Aviation Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON Instruction Manual). 

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC seeks the requested relief because the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS does not require 

an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, GOLD LEAF AVIATION 

LLC will ensure that the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance 

with the operating documents (i.e., the GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly 

Maintenance Log, and YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine 

that the aircraft is in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b) (2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual in the Aircraft. 

Section 91.9 (b) (2) provides: No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft ... (2) For which an 

Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual is not required by §21.5 of this chapter, unless there is available in the 

aircraft a current approved airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual, approved manual material, markings, and 

placards, or any combination thereof. The UAS, given its size and configuration has no ability or place to 

carry such a flight manual on the aircraft, not only because there is no pilot on board, but because there is no 

room or capacity to carry such an item on the aircraft. The equivalent level of safety will be maintained by 

keeping the flight manual at the ground control point where the pilot flying the UAS will have immediate 

access to it. 
P a g e | 9

14 C.F.R. § 91.103: Preflight Action. 

This regulation requires each pilot in command to take certain actions before flight to insure the safety of 

flight. As FAA approved rotorcraft flight manuals will not be provided for the aircraft an exemption will be 

needed. The PIC will take all actions as stated in the Operating Manual including but not limited to reviewing 

weather, flight battery requirements, landing and takeoff distances and aircraft performance data before 

initiation of flight. 

14 C.F.R. §91.109: Flight Instruction. 

Section 91.103 provides that no person may operate a civil aircraft (except a manned free balloon) that is 

being used for flight instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls. UAS and remotely 

piloted aircraft, by their design do not have fully functional dual controls. Flight control is accomplished 

through the use of a ground control station that communicates with the aircraft via radio communications. The 

FAA has approved exemptions for flight training without fully functional dual controls for a number of aircraft 

and for flight instruction in experimental aircraft. The equivalent level of safety provided by the fact that neither 

a pilot nor passengers will be carried in the aircraft and by the size and speed of the aircraft.

14 C.F.R. §91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes. 

Section 91.119 establishes safe altitudes for operation of civil aircraft. Section 91.119 (d) allows helicopters 

to be operated at less than the minimums prescribed, provided the person operating the helicopter complies

with any route or altitudes prescribed for helicopters by the FAA. As this exemption is for a UAS that is a 

helicopter and the exemption requests authority to operate at altitudes up to 400 AGL, or not more than 200 

above an elevated platform from which filming is planned, an exemption may be needed to allow such 

operations. As set forth herein, the UAS will never operate at higher than 400 AGL with the exception that in 

circumstances where the UAS is used to survey or photograph a structure whose height exceeds 400 feet 

AGL, the UAS will not be operated more than 200 feet above the highest point on the structure. It will 

however be operated in a restricted area with security perimeter, where buildings and people will not be 

exposed to operations without their pre-obtained consent. 

The equivalent level of safety will be achieved given the size, weight, speed of the UAS as well as the location 

where it is operated. No flight will be taken without the permission of the property owner or local officials. 

Because of the advance notice to the property owner and participants in the filming activity, all affected 

individuals will be aware of the planned flight operations. Compared to flight operations with aircraft or 

rotorcraft weighting far more than the maximum 55lbs. proposed herein and the lack of flammable fuel, any 

risk associated with these operations is far less than those presently presented with conventional aircraft 

operating at or below 500 AGL. In addition, the low-altitude operations of the UAS will ensure separation 

between these UAS operations and the operations of conventional aircraft that must comply with Section 

91.119. 

14 C.F.R. §91.121 Altimeter Settings. 

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, is required to allow flight operations of the YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications 

telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UAS 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), GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC seeks the requested relief because the 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS’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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS are equipped with a barometric 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.

14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions 

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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS during daylight hours in visual 

meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 20 minutes to the first 
P a g e | 10

point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes. GOLD 

LEAF AVIATION LLC seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight 

time duration of the battery powered YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will severely constrain the practicality of 

any aerial video or still photo flight operations that GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC proposes to conduct pursuant to 

this Petition. 

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS, the YUNEEC 

Q500 TYPHOON operating documents, and GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s proposed operating limitations, ensure 

that GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will safely operate the battery powered YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 20 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal 

cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes. Applicant believes that an equivalent level of safety can 

be achieved by limiting flights to 25 minutes or 25% of battery power— whichever happens first. This restriction 

would be more than adequate to return the UAS to its planned landing zone from anywhere in its limited 

operating area.

14 C.F.R. §91.203 (a) and (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration 

The regulation provides in pertinent part: 

(a) Except as provided in § 91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has within it the following: 

(1) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. . . . 

(b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by paragraph (a) of this 

section or a special flight authorization issued under §91.715 is displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so 

that it is legible to passengers or crew. 

The UAS fully loaded weighs no more than 55 lbs. and is operated without an onboard pilot. As such, there is 

no ability or place to carry certification and registration documents or to display them on the UAS. 

An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by keeping these documents at the ground control point where 

the pilot flying the UAS will have immediate access to them, to the extent they are applicable to the UAS. 

14 C.F.R. §91.405 (a); 407 (a) (1); 409 (a) (2); 417(a) & (b): Maintenance Inspections. 

These regulations require that an aircraft operator or owner “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 discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter...,” and others shall inspect or 

maintain the aircraft in compliance with Part 43. Given that these section and Part 43 apply only to aircraft with 

an airworthiness certificate, these sections will not apply to the applicant. Maintenance will be accomplished by 

the operator pursuant to the flight manual and operating handbook. An equivalent level of safety will be 

achieved because the UAS is very limited in size and will carry a small payload and operate only in restricted 

areas for a limited period of time. If mechanical issues arise the UAS can land immediately and will be 

operating from no higher than 400 feet AGL. The operator will ensure that the UAS is in working order prior to 

initiating flight, perform required maintenance, and keep a log of any maintenance performed. Moreover, the 

operator is the person most familiar with the aircraft and best suited to maintain the aircraft in an airworthy 

condition to provide the equivalent level of safety. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because 

maintenance and inspections will be performed in accordance with the UAS Manufacturer's User Manual. As 

provided in the Operating Manual, the operator will ensure that the UAS is in working order prior to initiating 

flight and perform required maintenance needed.
P a g e | 11

IV. The Reasons Why Granting GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s Request Would Be In The Public 

Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole. 

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Gold Leaf Aviation to safely, efficiently, 

and economically perform aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, and landscape over 

certain areas of the United States. Additionally, use of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will decrease 

congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits 

of GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s proposed operation of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will be realized without 

implicating any privacy issues.

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

The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS is battery powered and serves as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative 

to the manned 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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. Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned 

aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be 

reduced. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will 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 YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON UAS produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the 

cabin class, four-six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and 

photography, while burning approximately 10-16 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON 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 the 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard 

the aircraft, the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON, 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.

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will operate the Yuneec Electric Aviation Model Q500 Typhoon UAS, with a total 

weight of 1700g or 4.75 lbs. The dimensions are 420mm x 420mm x 240mm or 16.54 inches x q6.54 inches x 

9.45 inches. Under still air the maximum speed is no more than 6.7 m/s or 15 mph with a cruising speed of 6.7 

m/s or 15 mph. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON has the ability to hover and move along a vertical and horizontal 

plane simultaneously. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON has four motors, motor model YUNM4234 KV700, powered 

by a 5400 mAh 3s 11.1v Lithium Polymer battery. There are four counter rotating propellers, propeller models 

YUNQ500115A and YUNQ50011B, in use. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON will be controlled with a Yuneec model 

ST10, 10 channel remote controller with an operating frequency of 2.400GHz – 2.483GHz. The live video feed 

will have an operating frequency of 5.728GHz – 5.850GHz. The applicant will operate the UAS in line of sight 

within a closed off and predetermined area owned and/operated by the property representative.
P a g e | 12

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS Will 

Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS are also an economical alternative to 

using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON

UAS will allow United States based companies, like GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC, to remain competitive and 

contribute 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 technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the 

battery powered YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater 

operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational 

cost of a traditional manned aircraft. By operating the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS, companies such as GOLD

LEAF AVIATION LLC, can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to 

employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial 

performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS, provides a stable

workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; 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, GOLD LEAF 

AVIATION LLC’s proposed operation of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. 

Specifically, the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will be operated only in compliance with operating documents 

(i.e., the GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement 

notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude

requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

V. 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 GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS 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, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s operation of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 of 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. 
P a g e | 13

(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 users of the national airspace system or the public or 

pose a threat to national security; and

(2) whether 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 for 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, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS can operate 

safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the YUNEEC 

Q500 TYPHOON UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

a. The Specifications Of The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS do 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS.

The technical specifications of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS are set forth by the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON

Technical Specification & Data Sheet, attached hereto as EXHIBIT A. 

ii. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UASs To 

Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.

The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A 

complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS is provided at 

pages 13-17 of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON User Manuals, attached hereto as EXHIBIT B.

iii. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS Is 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or 

more. If, after 3 seconds, the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS does not reacquire control link data from the GCS, 

the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UAS 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 Failsafe Function 

of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS is set forth at page 17 of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON User Manual, 

attached hereto as EXHIBIT B.

iv. The YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON GCS And Its Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON GCS and flight 

control software is provided at pages 27 through 28 of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON User Manual.
P a g e | 14

b. Flight Operations Of YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS IS Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A 

Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid airman medical 

certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS. Additionally, a safety observer 

will assist all pilots during flight time.

c. Flights Of YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating 

Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC proposes to commercially operate YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON 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: 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 UAs may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as 

indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents unless a special request is made 

and approved by ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

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 observer (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. The 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 duties 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 accessible 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 the procedures outlined in the operating 

documents, the conditions and limitations 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 
P a g e | 15

responsibility 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 operator 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 arise 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 must 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. 

The 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 sections 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 accomplished, 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 corrective action taken 

against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current third- class medical 

certificate.

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s qualification 

criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the 

UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification 

flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of 

training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training 

operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and 

experience-building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered 

nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations 

must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special 
P a g e | 16

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 UAS 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 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. 

21. The UAS 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 UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a predetermined 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 

conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and 

land the UAS 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 conducted 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, 

registered 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.

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the 

UAS 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 UAS 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: 
P a g e | 17

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the 

UAS 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 UAS, 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 operating 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.

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS unless that PIC has 

demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely

operate the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and 

emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Considering GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forthabove; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot 

requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the YUNEEC 

Q500 TYPHOON UAS, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a 

commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for GOLD LEAF AVIATION 

LLC’s specific 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, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 

11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will not allow any PIC to operate the YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements of the YUNEEC 

Q500 TYPHOON UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the YUNEEC 

Q500 TYPHOON UAS 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, the PIC must 

accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). 
P a g e | 18

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in 

compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during GOLD LEAF AVIATION 

LLC’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 follows:

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 time 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 and 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 flight-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 compliance 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 experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UAS with appropriate distances in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency 

requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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, 

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will ensure that the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 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).

4. Reasons Why An Exemption 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment 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 GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s operation of the YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON UAS within visual line of sight, 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. 
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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, 11064, 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS; (2) the limitations on the 

proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, GOLD LEAF 

AVIATION LLC will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS during 

daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 20 minutes to the first 

point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes. Here, as 

in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON 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 

approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON

UAS will descend and land automatically. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning 

Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversely affected 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. Moreover, 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, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to 

the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will use trained 

technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods,

techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Operations 

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON Instruction Manual). Furthermore, GOLD LEAF 

AVIATION LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS. Since 

the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, GOLD LEAF 

AVIATION LLC 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 YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON User Manual are attached hereto as Exhibit B; a copy of the

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Exhibit C. Likewise, the exemption sought 

will not adversely affect safety because GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will use trained technicians to perform 

maintenance, alterations 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 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the YUNEEC 

Q500 TYPHOON UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and 
P a g e | 20

maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA 

concerning Sections 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 GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’s proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and the 

technical aspects of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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 For 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, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the 

intended operation of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 compensation or hire. 

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether 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 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 the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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 

following: 

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 engine 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 FAA 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 Gold Leaf Aviation’s intended operation of the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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).
P a g e | 21

VI A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules From Which 

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Seeks Exemption:

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R. 21, subpart H; 14 C.F.R. 45.23(b); 

14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113 (a) & (b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.7 (a); 14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b)(2); 14 C.F.R. § 91.103(b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.109; 14 

C.F.R. § 91.119; 14 C.F.R. § 91.121; 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a); 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.203(a) and (b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.405 (a); 14 

C.F.R. § 91.407 (a)(1); 14 C.F.R. § 91.409 (a)(2); 14 C.F.R. § 91.409 (a ) (2); and, 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.417 (a) & (b) to 

commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States.

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC Seeks:

14 C.F.R. 21 and 14 C.F.R. 91: Airworthiness Certificates, Manuals and Similar. 

14 C.F.R. 21, Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, sets forth requirements for procurement of 

necessary airworthiness certificates in relation to FAR § 91.203(a)(1). The size, weight and enclosed operational 

area of my UAS aircraft permits exemption from Part 21 because my UAS aircraft meet (and exceeds) an 

equivalent level of safety pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act. The FAA is authorized to exempt aircraft 

from the airworthiness certificate requirement under both the Act (49 U.S.C. § 44701 (f)) and Section 333 of the 

Reform Act. Both pieces of legislation permit the FAA to exempt UAS's from the airworthiness certificate 

requirement in consideration of the weight, size, speed, maneuverability and proximity to areas such as 

airports and dense populations. My current and projected UAS meet or exceed each of the elements. 

14 C.F.R. 91.7(a) prohibits the operation of an aircraft without an airworthiness certificate. As no such certificate 

will be applicable in the form contemplated by the FARs, this Regulation is inapplicable. 

14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b) (2) requires an aircraft flight manual in the aircraft. As there are no on board pilots or 

passengers, and given the size of the UAS, this Regulation is inapplicable. An equivalent level of safety will be 

achieved by maintaining a safety/flight manual delineating areas of where safety can be defined. The FAA has 

previously issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8607, 8737, 8738, 9299, 9299A, 9565, 9565B, 

10167, 10167A, 10602, 10700 and 32827. 

14 C.F.R. § 91.121 regarding altimeter settings is inapplicable insofar as my UAS utilizes electronic global 

positioning systems with a barometric sensor. 

14 C.F.R. § 91.203 (a) and (b) provides for the carrying of civil aircraft certifications and registrations. They are 

inapplicable for the same reasons described above. The equivalent level of safety will be achieved by 

maintaining any such required certifications and registrations by me and any proposed PIC’s of the UAS 

proposed.

14 C.F.R. § 45.23: Marking of the Aircraft. 

Applicable Codes of Federal Regulation require aircraft to be marked according to certain specifications. My 

UAS are, by definition, unmanned. They therefore do not have a cabin, cockpit or pilot station on which to mark

certain words or phrases. Further, two-inch lettering is difficult to place on such small aircraft with dimensions 

smaller that minimal lettering requirement. 

Regardless, I propose that each UA will carry its appropriate “N” number if one is issued by the FAA, in such size 

as can reasonably fit upon the sides of the aircraft in at least two locations on the booms or fuselage. If an N 

number is not obtained from the FAA, I will mark the related UAS in the largest possible lettering by placing the 

word “EXPERIMENTAL” on its fuselage as required by 14 C.F.R. §45.29 (f) so that I the pilot, or anyone assisting 

me as a spotter with the UA will see the markings. The FAA has previously issued exemptions to this regulation 

through Exemptions Nos. 8738, 10167, 10167A and 10700.

14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: PIC. 
P a g e | 22

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113 (a) & (b), private pilots are limited to non-commercial operations. The FAA has 

previously ruled in its exemption that a Private Pilot’s Certificate is required for flight of the UAS for commercial 

purposes. I, Arlington Duncan, am a licensed commercial pilot and will assure that all PIC’s proposed to operate 

any of the UAS aircraft also have at minimum a Private Pilot’s certificate and current Class Three medical. 

My UAS do not carry any pilots or passengers. The risks attended to the operation of my UAS is far less than the 

risk levels inherent in the commercial activities outlined in 14 C.F.R. § 61, et seq. Thus, allowing me and any 

other Private Pilot Certified PIC to operate the proposed UAS to meet and exceed current safety levels in 

relation to 14 C.F.R. §61.113 (a) & (b). 

14 C.F.R. 91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes. 

14 C.F.R. § 91.119 prescribes safe altitudes for the operation of civil aircraft. It allows helicopters to be operated 

at lower altitudes in certain conditions. My UAS will never operate at an altitude greater than 400 AGL. I will 

however operate my UAS in safe areas away from public and traffic, providing a level of safety at least 

equivalent to or below those in relation to minimum safe altitudes. Given the size, weight, maneuverability and 

speed of my UAS, an equivalent or higher level of safety will be achieved.

14 C.F.R. 91.405 (a); 407 (a) (1); 409 (a) (2); 417(a) & (b): Maintenance Inspections. 

The above-cited Regulations require, amongst other things, aircraft owners and operators to “have [the] 

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 discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter. . . 

.” 

These Regulations only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. They will not, therefore, apply to my 

proposed UAS. However, as a safety precaution I require the PIC to perform a comprehensive pre-flight and 

post-flight inspection of the UAS, adhering to the manufacturers’ recommendations and checking all flight 

systems, power system, rotors and electronics including battery levels. The UAS has significant self-diagnostic 

software and systems checks built into its operations. Any system not reporting correctly and fully functional 

shall result in an aborted flight until the problem is identified and solved and the systems once again report 

100% green and good to go. 

VII. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support GOLD LEAF AVIATION 

LLC’s Request.

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which 

directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, 

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC’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 

whether 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, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC will operate the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON 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.
P a g e | 23

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC 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 YUNEEC Q500 

TYPHOON UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of 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 interests of the public, by allowing GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC to safely, efficiently, and 

economically operate the YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS commercially within the NAS. WHEREFORE, in 

accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 

333, GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption 

from the requirements of 14 C.F.R. 21, subpart H; 14 C.F.R. 45.23(b); 14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113 (a) & (b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.7 

(a); 14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b)(2); 14 C.F.R. § 91.103(b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.109; 14 C.F.R. § 91.119; 14 C.F.R. § 91.121; 14 C.F.R. § 

91.151(a); 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.203(a) and (b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.405 (a); 14 C.F.R. § 91.407 (a)(1); 14 C.F.R. § 91.409 (a)(2); 14 

C.F.R. § 91.409 (a ) (2); and, 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.417 (a) & (b), and permit GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC to operate the 

YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over 

certain areas of the United States.

Dated: June 1, 2015

Respectfully submitted,

GOLD LEAF AVIATION LLC

c/o Arlington Duncan

Arlington Duncan

4906 Wellington Way

Houston, TX 77069

Tel: (281) 397 0898

Appendices:

Exhibit A – YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON Specifications Data Sheet

Exhibit B – YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON Manufacturer’s User Manual

Exhibit C – Monthly Maintenance Log
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Exhibit A – Technical Specification & Data Sheet
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Exhibit B – YUNEEC Q500 TYPHOON User Manual (See Attachment)
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Exhibit C – Monthly Maintenance Log