1

February 21, 2016
Attn: U. S. Department of Transportation Docket Operations West Building Ground Floor, Room w12

- 140 1200 New Jersey

Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590

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

- 95)

Seth Woodell Principal Balcones Environmental Consulting, LLC 6710 Virginia Parkway #215

- 316 McKinney, TX 75071 918

- 939

- 8080 swoodell @balconesenv

. com2 **TABLE OF CONTENTS** Page GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS...................................................................................3

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

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

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

BASI S FOR PETITION.........................................................................................................5

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETIT IONER.......................

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

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL SEEKS EXEMPTION........................................

........................................... ... ............... ....... 7 THE EXTENT OF RELIEF BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL SEEKS AND THE REASON BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL SEEKS THE RELIEF...................

................... ......... ....... . . . .. ... 1 0 THE REASONS WHY GRANTING BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’S REQUEST WOULD BE I N THE PUBLIC INTEREST ...................................

............ .................. .......................... .1 2 THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION TO BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY..........................................

.. .............. .... 1 4 SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGI STER....

.......... .. . .. 25 ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’S REQUEST...

.......................................... . . ... 25 CONCLUSION............................................................................................................

. ........ 2 5 APPENDICES...............................................................

. ......................... 263 **GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS** AGL Above Ground Level AOI Area of Interest ATC Air Traffic Control ATO Air Traffic Organization AV Aerial Vehicle CFR Code of Federal Regulations COA Certificate of Authorization FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAR Federal Aviation Regulation GCS Ground Control Station GPS Global Positioning System LOL Loss of Link NAS National Airspace System NOTAM Notice to Airman PIC Pilot In Command Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) SO Safety Observer SOP Standard Operating Procedure s UA Unmanned Aircraft UAS Unmanned Aircraft System VFR Visual Flight Rules VLOS Visual Line of Site VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 **SUMMARY** Balcones Environmental Consulting, LLC hereafter referred to as BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3 and/or Inspire 1 ) an pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography o f construction sites, residential and commercial real estate, civil landscape s and events over certain areas of the United States. **INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER** BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL staff has for over fifty ye ars providing their clients (which include private sector businesses along with local state and federal agencies) with expertise and knowledge in environmental compliance and permitting services

. As a new extension of our business we plan to supply our clients aerial video and photography using commercial aircraft

. The objective of BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL and our Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3 ) aerial operations is to provide a more affordable , high

- quality ay to comply with federal and state environmental regulations for a variety o f governmental, commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting

• Construction sites before and after

• Biological surveys

• Aerial mapping and remote sensing

• Virtual simulation

• Special event coverage

• Private and governmental training

**BACKGROUND** Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJIPhantom 3 , UAS BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks an exemption to operate DJI Phantom 3 system for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJIPhantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of approximately 2.8 lb. while having a diagonal dimension of 2 3.2” , a maximum speed of approximately 16.4’fps and a maximum flying height of 400'

. The DJI Phantom 3 is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Poly

mer battery

powered electric motors.5

The DJI Phantom 3 that will be operated by BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL 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

.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJIInspire 1, UAS BALCONES ENVIRONMENTALs eeks an exemption to operate DJI Inspire 1 system for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI In spire 1 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GC S) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Inspire 1 has a maximum gross weight of approximately 5.3 lb. while having a diagonal dimension of 22.9 ”, a maximum speed of approximately 7 2.2 ’fps and a maximum flying height of 400'. The DJI Inspire 1 is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Poly

mer battery

powered electric motors. The DJI Inspire 1 that will be operated by BALCONES ENVIRONMENTALwill 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, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL , 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 , hereb y petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 , UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL operation of DJI Phantom 3 and Insprie 1 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, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL 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. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 Instruction Manual s ). Furthermore,6

BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS. Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL 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 DJ I Phantom and Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with this ex emption, including evasive and emergency

maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , because the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, BALC ONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that they will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS is in an airworthy

c ondition, prior to every f light, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly M aintenance Lo g, and DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 Instruction Manual s), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will not have a ty pical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s operation of the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 4 00 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Additionally, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that safety will not be affected by

operation of the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery p ower to fly

f or a total duration of approximately 23 minutes

. B attery

p ower indicators are also able to show exactly how much battery

p ower is left, as well as how much time is needed to return safely back to point of take off. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, BALC ONES ENVIRONMENTAL provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:

**A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.**  The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is: Seth Woodell Principal7

Balcones Environmental Consulting, LLC 6710 Virginia Parkway #215

- 316 McKinney, TX 75071 918

- 939

- 8080 swoodell@balconesenv.com

**B. The**  **Specific Sections**  **Of 14**  **C.F.R. From**  **Which BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks Exemption.**  **1. BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section**  **61.113(a) And (b).** Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part: (a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft. (b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or emplo yment if

— (1) The flight is only

incidental to that business or employ ment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property

for compensati on or hire. **2. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).**  Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , subsection (a), states the following: (a) No person may

operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. **3. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121.**  Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , subsection (a), states the following, in part:

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the crui sing altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may b e, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating

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

--

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;8 (ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or (iii) Inthe case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure.

**4. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).**  Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , subsection (b), states the following:

(b ) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 minutes. **5. BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirement**  **Of Section**  **91.405(a).** Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: Each owner or operator of an aircraft

— (a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.] **6. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section**  **91.407(a)(1)** Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration , subsection (a)(1), states the following: (a) No person may

operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless

-- (1) Ithas been approved for return to service by ap erson authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter[.] **7. BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirements**  **Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).**  Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), states the following:9 (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had

-- (1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service b y a person authorized by § 43.7 o f this chapter; or (2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.

**8. BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirements**  **Of Sections 91.417(a) And 91.417(b).**  Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records , subsections (a) and (b), state the following: (a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section: (1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 100

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

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

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service. (2) Records containing the following information:

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each rotor. (ii) The current status of life

- limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance. (iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis. (iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained.10 (v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required. (vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances.

(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed: (1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 ye ar after the work is performed. (2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold. (3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.

**C. The**  **Extent Of**  **Relief BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks**  **And The**  **Reason BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks The Relief. 1. Extent Of Relief**  **BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks And The Reason**  **BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b).** Relief from S ection 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 employ

ment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employ ment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property

for compensation or hire. As set forth more fully below, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight

-hour and currency requirements,11

demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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, BALC ONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS , conducted by the P IC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

**2. Extent Of Relief BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks And The Reason BALCONES**  **ENVIR ONMENTAL**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).** Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , is requested to the extent required to allow BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS are in airworthy c ondition prior to every f light by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 Instruction Manual s). BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 ) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

**3. Extent Of Relief BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks And The Reason**  **BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.** Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , may b e required to allow flight operations of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UA’s altimeter may b e 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 neces sary

to comply

with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As
more fully

s et forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI12

Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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.

**4. Extent Of Relief BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Se**  **eks And The Reason BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).**  Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery p owered DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 23 minutes. BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery

p owered DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. Signif icantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS , the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 operating documents, and BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will safely operate the battery

p owered DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes

.

**5. Extent Of Rel ief**  **BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks And The Reason BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks**  **Relief From**  **Sections 91.405(a),**  **91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1)**  **& (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).**  Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL requests relief from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS do not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully b elow, the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 Instruction Manual s). Furthermore, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS

.13

**D. The**  **Reasons Why**  **Granting BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL 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 BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL to safely, efficiently, and economically p erform aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, events and civic landscape over certain areas of the United States. Additionally, use of the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy
. Notably, the benefits of BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

**1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.** The DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS are battery p owered and serve 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 DJI Phantom 3 and Insp ire 1 UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety o f 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 DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS do not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by

air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

**2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI Phantom 3**  **UAS.** Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 f light operations. By

using battery power and electric motors, the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally c onscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraf t that are ty

pically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately

2 0

- 30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS , while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noi se pollution, as the UAS are propelled by b attery p owered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine.14

By using the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 l ack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS (weighing approximately 2 .8 and 5.3 pounds, respectively at their maximum gross weight with diagonal dimension of 23.2 and 22.9 inches , respectively, and with no f uel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that ty pically c onduct similar operations (weighing approximately

6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). **3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **Will Benefit The Economy.** Inaddition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UA S are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will allow United States based companies, like BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL , to remain competitive and c ontribute 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 DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility c ompared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility

without the high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft. By operating the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS, companies such as BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL , can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately c ontribute to growth of the U.S.
economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the DJIPhantom 3 and In spire 1 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, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will not implicate any privacy i ssues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log , and DJI Phantom 3 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. § 91.119.15

**E. The**  **Reasons Why**  **Granting The**  **Exemption Would**  **Not Adversely**  **Affect Safety,**  **Or How**  **The Exemption**  **Would Provide**  **A Level**  **Of Safety**  **At Least**  **Equal To**  **That Provided**  **By The Rule From Which BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **Seeks Exemption. 1.**  **Reasons Why**  **The DJI**  **Phantom 3**  **UA S**  **Meet The**  **Conditions Of**  **The FAA**  **Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333.** In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 f or a UAS to operate without air worthiness 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 ) I n General.

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

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

-- (1 ) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace sys tem 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, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by : (a) the characteristics of the DJIPhantom 3 UAS ; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations. **a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.**16

The DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS do es not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security c onsidering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability

. **i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3**  **UAS**
**.** The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS and Inspire 1 are set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 User Manual , attached hereto as Appendix A

. **ii. The DJI Phantom 3**  **and Inspire 1 UAS**  **Global Positioning Modes Enable The UAS**  **To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.** The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS is provided in the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 User Manual s attached hereto as Appendix A

. **iii. The DJI Phantom 3**  **and Inspire 1 UAS**  **Are Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.**  When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJIPhantom 3 UAS do es not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown. A complete description of the Failsaf e Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS in the DJIPhantom 3 Inspire 1 UAS User Manual s , attached hereto as Appendix A

. **iv. The DJI Phantom 3**  **and Inspire 1 GCS And Its Operation.**  A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 GCS and flight control software is provided in the DJI Phantom 3 and In spire 1 User Manual s attached as Appendix A

. **b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3**  **and Inspire 1 UAS**  **Is Limited To The Line Of Sight**  **Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.** BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL video production staff will be the only p ersons to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS . Additionally, a safety observer will assist him at all times during flight time. **c. Flights Of DJI Phantom**  **3 and Inspire 1**  **UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific**  **O perating Limitations.**  In seeking this exemption, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL proposes to commercially operate DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations

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

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of aerial video and photography. 3. The UA S may

not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots. 4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 4 00 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by

the procedures specified in the operating documents 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 b e used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communi cate 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 c an 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 u pdate or revise its operating documents. Iti s the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated18 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 b e 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 of19 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 UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 19. UAS operations may

not be conducted during night, as def ined 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 request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 20. The UA may

not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA

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

not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally

from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC. 22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents. 23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operating documents. 24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining. 25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be 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.20 27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any l aw enforcement official upon request. 29. The UA must remain clear and yi eld the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times. 30. The UAS may

not be operated b y the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of 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 B oard (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.** 21

BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

hour and currency

requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Considering BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements ( See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of
a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’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). BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS unl ess that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

-hour requirements
or the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with thi s 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). Inaddition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeof fs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’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, the22

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

b e 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 c onduct 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 UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. Accordingly, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 Se ction 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every flight, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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** 
**.**23

The equivalent level of safety established by S ection 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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. 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, 111 38, 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 1 4 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS ; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will ensure that it will safely operate the battery

p owered DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly

for a total duration of 23 minutes. Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS ; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety e stablished by

1 4 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 3 3% remaining battery

p ower, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery

p ower. At the critically low battery l evel, the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 9 1.151, 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, 1067 3, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).24

**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, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 9 1.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS. Since the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by

S ections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A cop y of the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 User Manuals are attached hereto as Appendix A and B; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS M aintenance LOG is attached hereto as Appendix C. Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because BALC ONES ENVIRONMENTAL 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 DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning 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 BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS , BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL 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 , BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL requests25

that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety e quivalent to that established by 1 4 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 3 33 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 f or such UAS to operate without airworthiness certific ation 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 DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety e quivalent to that established by 1 4 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

**• A**  **Summary That**  **Can Be**  **Published In**  **The Federal**  **Register, stating:**  **The Rules From Which**  **BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks Exemption:** 

BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) &(b). **A Brief**  **Description Of**  **The Nature**  **Of The**  **Exemption BALCONES**  **ENVIRONMENTAL Seeks:** 26

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

**• Any**  **Additional Information,**  **Views, Or**  **Arguments Availab**  **le To**  **Support BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL**  **’s Request.** 

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary o f Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely

in the NAS. As such, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL ’s request for exemption may

b e granted pursuant to the authority o f 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 airworthine ss certification. As discussed in detail above, BALC ONES ENVIRONMENTAL will operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 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

. **CONC LUSION**  As set forth herein, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL 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 DJIPhantom 3 and Inspire 1 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 Mo dernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS commercially within the NAS. **WHEREFORE** , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, BALCONES ENVIRONMENTAL respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Leading Edge to operate the DJIPhantom 3 UAS commercially f or the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. Dated: February

21, 2016 Respectfully

submitted,27

Seth Woodell Principal Balcones Environmental Consulting, LLC 6710 Virginia Parkway #215

- 316 McKinney, TX 75071 918

- 939

- 8080 swoodell@balconesenv.com

Appendices :

A

– Link to DJI Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 Manual: Click on link below http://download.dji

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

http://dl.djicdn.com/downloads/inspire_1/de/Inspire_1_User_Manual_v1.0_de.pdf