1331 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 310

Columbia, SC 29201

PH 803.724.3263

www.geosyntec.com

FAA Section 333 Exemption Request_FINAL.docx

 31 July 2015 

United States Department of Transportation

Docket Management System

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

West Building Ground Floor Room W12-140 

Washington, DC 20590 

Subject: Exemption Request Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and 

Reform Act of 2012

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Pursuant to Section 333 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Modernization and 

Reform Act of 2012 (Reform Act) and 14 CFR Part 11, Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. (Geosyntec)

seeks an exemption from Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) detailed herein for the use of 3D 

Robotics Inc. (3DR) Aero-M and X8+ small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The requested 

exemption will support Certificate of Authorization (COA) applications. Together, the Section 

333 exemption and COAs will allow Geosyntec to operate the aforementioned UAS in the 

National Airspace System (NAS) for various commercial aerial data collection purposes. 

Geosyntec requests that the FAA review this petition pursuant to its “summary grant” process as 

the FAA has already granted exemptions similar in all practical aspects to this petition to use the 

3DR Aero-M and X8+ for commercial aerial data collection (see FAA Grant of Exception No. 

11519, 11617, 11755, 11861, and 12048). 

I. REGULATIONS FOR WHICH EXEMPTION IS REQUESTED

Geosyntec requests exemption from the following regulations: 

• 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H; 

• 14 CFR Part 27; 

• 14 CFR §45.23(b); 

• 14 CFR §45.27(a); 

• 14 CFR §61.113; 

• 14 CFR §91.7(a); 

• 14 CFR §91.9(b)(2); 

• 14 CFR §91.9(c); 
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• 14 CFR §91.103; 

• 14 CFR §91.109(a); 

• 14 CFR §91.119; 

• 14 CFR §91.121; 

• 14 CFR §91.151(a)&(b); 

• 14 CFR §91.203(a)&(b); 

• 14 CFR §91.405(a); 

• 14 CFR §91.407(a)(1); 

• 14 CFR §91.409(a)(2); and, 

• 14 CFR §91.417(a)&(b). 

This petition incorporates the material contained in the Geosyntec UAS Pre-Flight Safety Check 

Procedures, the X8+ Operation Manual, and the AERO-M Operation Manual (together referred 

to as the “Manuals”, see attached).

II. STATUTORY AUTHORITY FOR REQUEST EXEMPTIONS

This petition for exemption is submitted in accordance with Section 333 of the Reform Act. 

Congress has directed the FAA to safely accelerate the integration of civil unmanned aircraft 

systems into the national airspace system. Under Section 333 of the Reform Act, the FAA 

Administrator is to permit operation of a UAS where it does not create a hazard to users of the 

NAS or the public or pose a threat to national security based on: 

• The size, weight, speed and operational capability; 

• Operation in proximity to airports and populated areas; and, 

• Operation within visual line of sight of the operator. 

Furthermore, the Federal Aviation Act provides the FAA Administrator the general authority to 

grant exemptions from FAA safety regulations and minimum standards when the Administrator

decides a requested exemption is in the public interest (see 49 USC §§ 106(f), 44701-44716). 
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III. DESCRIPTION OF GEOSYNTEC AND ITS SERVICES 

Geosyntec is a consulting firm comprising over 1,000 engineers, geologists, scientists, and other 

technical specialists. Our professionals provide a broad range of engineering and environmental 

services to public- and private-sector clients across the United States and abroad. Headquartered 

in Boca Raton, Florida, Geosyntec has offices in North America, Malaysia, Australia, Ireland, 

and the United Kingdom. The name and address of the applicant is: 

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. 

Attention: Brandon Mogan, PE 

Phone: 803-422-5251 

E-Mail: BMogan@Geosyntec.com

Mailing Address: 1331 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 310, Columbia, SC 29072 

Corporate Address: 900 Broken Sound Pkwy NW, Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL 33487 

IV. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED OPERATIONS

Geosyntec is requesting exemptions from applicable FARs pursuant to Section 333 of the 

Reform Act in order to perform commercial aerial data collection along existing and proposed 

utility corridors; at industrial facilities (e.g., power plants, manufacturing plants, etc.); landfills; 

and other sites located in non-urban areas.

The use of UAS for the aforementioned purposes is much safer than using traditional aircraft. 

The proposed UAS are very small (much less than 55 pounds) when compared to traditional 

aircraft and therefore pose significantly less risk to persons and property. Further, UAS operation 

does not require an on-board pilot or combustible fuel. For activities that would typically be 

performed by ground-based workers, the use of UAS allows for the safe and efficient collection 

of data without the need to expose workers to potentially harmful environmental conditions. For 

example, a UAS equipped with a thermal imaging camera can be used to identify temperature 

anomalies along an elevated piping system whereas this activity would typically be performed by 

personnel working on an elevated platform, presenting the risk for falls and/or chemical 

exposure. 
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A. AIRCRAFT TO BE OPERATED

1. 3DR X8+

Geosyntec will operate the 3DR X8+ for the purposes of aerial data collection. The FAA has 

already approved the 3DR X8+ for commercial operations (see FAA Exemption No. 11617, 

Regulatory Docket No. FAA-2015-0549). The 3DR X8+ is a battery-powered multirotor UAS

with a maximum weight of less than eight pounds (5.6 pounds without payload).

1 The maximum 

estimated flight time per the manufacturer is 15 minutes. The 3DR X8+ is depicted in the 

following figure. 

Figure 1: 3DR X8+ 

The 3DR X8+ is more fully described in the 3DR X8+ Operation Manual (see Attachment C). 

2. 3DR AERO-M 

Geosyntec will also operate the 3DR AERO-M for the purposes of aerial data collection. The 

FAA has already approved the 3DR AERO-M for commercial operations (see FAA Exemption 

No. 11617, Regulatory Docket No. FAA-2015-0549). The 3DR AERO-M is a battery-powered 

fixed-wing UAS with a maximum weight of less than eight pounds (6.8 pounds without payload, 

 

1 The 3DR X8+ website specifies that the payload capacity is 800 g (1.7 lbs), but that additional payload is possible to over 1 kg with reduced 

flight time. Geosyntec will not utilize payloads of greater than 1 kg (2.2 pounds) on the X8+. See https://store.3drobotics.com/products/x8-

plus?taxon_id=32, accessed on 17 July 2015.
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1.1 pound payload capacity). The maximum estimated flight time per the manufacturer is 40 

minutes. The 3DR AERO-M is depicted in the following figure. 

Figure 2: 3DR AERO-M 

The 3DR AERO-M is more fully described in the 3DR AERO-M Operation Manual (see 

Attachment D). 

B. Geosyntec’s Proposed Operations Demonstrate an Equivalent Level of Safety

1. General Description of Proposed Flight Operations 

Geosyntec proposes to operate within the limitations and performance specifications listed in the 

3DR X8+ and AERO-M Manuals. These limitations provide for at least an equivalent, or higher, 

level of safety for operations under the current regulatory structure because the proposed 

operations are safer than conventional operations using helicopters or fixed wing aircraft which 

are much larger than these UAS, travel at much higher speeds, carry a pilot, and carry 

combustible fuel. The proposed flight operations are similar in all material respects to operations 

already approved by the FAA and are therefore subject to the FAA’s “summary grant” process.

The proposed operations do not create any hazard to users of the NAS or pose a threat to national 

security. Moreover, the use of these UAS for the proposed operations pose less of a threat to 

persons and property than traditional aircraft given: 
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• The proposed UAS will have short flight durations during which the UAS will be 

operated below 400 feet above ground level (AGL) within the visual line of sight (VLOS) 

of pilot in command (PIC). If operating under a blanket COA, operations will be limited 

to under 200 feet AGL. 

• The proposed UAS are equipped with robust safety features, including low-battery 

failsafe, GPS signal loss failsafe, remote control (RC) signal loss failsafe, and geo-fence

capabilities. These features are more fully described in the Manuals.

• The proposed UAS travel at much lower altitudes and much slower speeds as compared 

to traditional aircraft. 

• The proposed UAS do not carry persons or combustible fuel as do traditional aircraft. 

The FAA has determined that the risk of not having an electronic means to monitor and 

communicate with other aircraft, such as transponders or sense and avoid technology, is 

mitigated by placing limits on altitude, requiring stand-off distance from clouds, prohibiting 

nighttime operations, requiring that the unmanned aircraft (UA) be operated within the visual 

line of sight of the PIC, and yielding right of way to all manned aircraft.

2. Specific Limitations on Proposed Flight Operations

Given the small size involved, the restricted environment within which they will operate, the 

procedures listed below, and pilot certification requirements PIC, Geosyntec’s proposed 

operations using the 3DR X8+ and AERO-M would not create a hazard to users of the national 

airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security (Reform Act Section 

333(b)(1)). 

• The UA weigh less than ten pounds each. 

• Each UA will be identified by serial number, registered with the FAA, and have 

identification (N-Number) markings as large as practicable.

• Flights will be operated within VLOS of the PIC. The Visual Observer (VO) may be used 

to satisfy this requirement so long as the PIC maintains VLOS capability.

• Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point will be established as a base elevation 

for monitoring flight altitude AGL. 
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• The PIC will ensure that before each flight, there is enough available power for the UAS 

to conduct the intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minutes or with 

the reserve power recommended by the manufacturer, if greater.

• The aircraft will be operated during daylight and in periods of good visibility. 

• Flights will not exceed 400 feet AGL. If operating under a blanket COA, flights will not 

exceed 200 feet AGL.

• Flights will be operated at a lateral distance of at least 500 feet from any persons or 

structures not associated with the operation who have not given prior permission. 

• Flights will be limited to a groundspeed of less than 100 miles per hour (mph). 

• Minimum crew for each flight will consist of a PIC and a VO.

• The PIC will hold either an airline transport, commercial, private, recreational, or sport 

pilot certificate. The PIC will also hold a current FAA airman medical certificate or valid 

US Driver’s license issued by a state or the federal government. The PIC will 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.

• Prior to each flight, a Mission Plan will be created setting the limitations for the flight as 

well as contact information for the PIC.

• The flight operations will yield the right of way to all manned aircraft operations.

• All persons who are not involved in Geosyntec UAS operations will be required to be at 

least 500 feet from flight operations. 

• The aircraft will only operate over private or controlled access property with the 

permission of the owner/controller or authorized representative. 

• The UAS will not operate within five nautical miles of an airport unless a letter of 

agreement is established with the airports management.

• All required permissions and permits will be obtained from territory, state, county, or city 

jurisdictions as applicable prior to flight.
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• Prior to commencing operations, Geosyntec will obtain a Certificate of Waiver or 

Authorization (COA) from the FAA. 

• If the aircraft loses communications, the UA will either land or return to a pre-determined 

location within the private or controlled-access property. 

• If the aircraft loses GPS signal, it will have the capability of being flown manually to a 

predetermined location within the operational area and land. 

• UA flights will be aborted in case of unanticipated obstacles or emergencies by manual 

override of the mission and either landing or returning to a pre-determined location 

within the private or controlled-access property.

• UAS operations will be conducted within the parameters of the Manuals. 

3. Flight Recovery, Lost Communications, and Lost GPS Procedures

The flight recovery, lost communications, and lost GPS procedures are more fully documented in 

the attached Manuals.

V. SPECIFIC FAR EXEMPTIONS REQUESTED

Geosyntec seeks exemption from several interrelated provisions of 14 CFR Parts 21, 45, 61, and 

91 for the purposes of conducting the requested operations using the 3DR X8+ and AERO-M 

UAS for commercial (civil) purposes. The following provides the specific FAR sections for 

which an exemption is requested and outlines operating procedures that Geosyntec has 

established which will ensure a level of safety better than or equal to the rules from which the 

exemption is sought, per 14 CFR §11.81(e). 

A. 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H – Airworthiness Certificates and 14 CFR 

91.2013(a)(1) 

The FAA has previously determined that the proposed UAS used for similar purposes do not 

require exemption from 14 CFR Part 21 or the associated noise certification and testing 

requirements of Part 36 given that these UAS meet the conditions of Section 333 (see FAA 

Exemption No. 11617, Regulatory Docket No. FAA-2015-0549). If, however, the FAA 

determines that there are some characteristics of the UAS proposed herein that fail to meet the 

requirements of the Reform Act, an exemption is requested. 
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Equivalent Level of Safety: The 3DR X8+ and 3DR AERO-M provide similar if not better 

levels of safety when compared to traditional aircraft when taking into account their size, weight, 

speed, and operational capability. The UAS weigh less than 10 pounds each and will be flown at 

speeds of less than 100 miles per hour, and in VSOL of the PIC. The UASs do not carry pilots, 

passengers, or combustible liquid fuels. The UASs will be operated within the parameters of 

their respective Manuals. For these reasons, and other reasons described herein, the proposed 

operations will be at least as safe as, or safer than, conventional aircraft operating with an 

airworthiness certificate without the restrictions and conditions proposed in this request. 

B. 14 CFR Part 27 Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Rotorcraft

14 CFR Part 27 sets forth the procedural requirements for airworthiness certification of normal 

category rotorcraft. To the extent the proposed UAS would otherwise require certification under 

Part 27, Geosyntec seeks an exemption from Part 27's airworthiness standards for the same

reasons identified in the request for exemption from 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H. 

C. 14 CFR §§ 45.23(b), 45.27(a), and 91.9(c): Aircraft Marking and 

Identification Requirements

14 CFR §45.23(b), Markings of the Aircraft states: 

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. 

14 CFR § 45.27(a) states: 

Rotorcraft. Each operator of a rotorcraft must display on that rotorcraft horizontally on 

both surfaces of the cabin, fuselage, boom, or tail the marks required by § 45.23. 

14 CFR § 91.9(c) states: 

No person may operate a US-registered civil aircraft unless that aircraft is identified in 

accordance with part 45 of this chapter. 
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In a previous Grant of Exemption, the FAA determined that exemption from these requirements 

was warranted provided that the aircraft “have identification (N-Number) markings in 

accordance with 14 CFR Part 45, Subpart C if the markings are “as large as practicable” (see

Exemption No. 11062, Docket No. FAA 2014-0352, at p. 14). 

Equivalent Level of Safety: Geosyntec will mark the proposed UAS with their N-Number in a 

prominent spot with markings that are as large as practicable.

D. 14 CFR §61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations 

Geosyntec seeks exemption from 14 CFR § 61.113, which restricts private pilots from flying

aircraft for compensation or hire and would also require a second class medical certificate. The 

purpose of Part 61 is to ensure that the skill and competency of any PIC matches the airspace in 

which the PIC will be operating, as well as requiring certifications if the pilot is carrying 

passengers or cargo for hire. While the UAS will be operated as part of a commercial operation, 

they will carry neither passengers nor cargo. 

Equivalent Level of Safety: The FAA has granted other petitioners relief from the requirements 

of 14 CFR §61.133 under the conditions that: (i) the PIC hold either an airline transport, 

commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate; (ii) the PIC hold either a current FAA 

airmen medicate certificate or a valid US driver’s license issued by a state, the District of 

Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government; and, (iii) the PIC 

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 (see FAA Exemption No. 11519, Regulatory Docket No. 

FAA-2015-0329). Through training of PICs in the safe operation of the UAS and compliance 

with the aforementioned conditions, Geosyntec’s proposed operations will achieve an equivalent 

level of safety with respect to the requirements of 14 CFR §61.133. 

E. 14 CFR §91.7(a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness

Geosyntec seeks an exemption from 14 CFR§ 91.7(a), which requires that a civil aircraft be in 

airworthy condition to be operated. The FAA has stated that no exemption is required to the 

extent that the requirements of Part 21 are waived or found inapplicable. Accordingly, Geosyntec 

requests that the requirements for §91.7 be treated in accordance with FAR Part 21 Subpart H 

(see Grant of Exemption No. 11062, p. 19). 

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

§91.203(a) and (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration 

Under 14 CFR §91.9(b)(2): 
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(b) No person may operate a US-registered civil aircraft – 

... 

(2) For which an Airplane or Rotocraft Flight Manual is required by §21.5 of this 

chapter, unless there is available in the aircraft a current approved Airplane or Rotocraft 

Flight Manual, approved manual material, markings, and placards, or any combination 

thereof.

Under 14 CFR §91.203(a) and (b): 

(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. 

Geosyntec submits that an exemption from this section is not required in accordance with the 

FAA Office of Chief Counsel's Opinion dated August 8, 2014, which allows for the UAS flight 

manual, registration certificate and other documentation to be kept at the control station with the 

PIC during flight. The Chief Counsel's Office has held that for all UAS operations, this alternate 

method constitutes full compliance with the regulations. Geosyntec will utilize this alternate 

method for compliance with the aforementioned FAR sections. 

G. 14 CFR §91.103: Preflight Action 

Geosyntec seeks an exemption from 14 CFR § 91.103, which requires a PIC to become familiar 

with specific information before each flight, including information contained in the FAAapproved Flight Manual on board the aircraft. As mentioned above, the UAS will not have a 

Flight Manual on board. The PIC will take all actions including reviewing weather, flight battery 

requirements, landing and takeoff distances and aircraft performance data before initiation of 

flight. Under these circumstances, the FAA has stated that no exemption is required (see Grant of 

Exemption No. 11062, p. 20). An exemption is requested to the extent that an FAA approved 

Flight Manual is required. 

Equivalent Level of Safety: An equivalent level of safety will be provided by following the

Manuals. The PIC will take all required preflight actions - including performing all required
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checks and reviewing weather, flight requirements, battery charge, landing and takeoff distance, 

aircraft performance data, and contingency landing areas - before initiation of flight. The 

Manuals will be kept at the ground station with the operator at all times.

H. 14 CFR §91.109(a): Flight Instruction 

Geosyntec seeks an exemption from 14 CFR § 91.109(a), which provides that [n]o 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 functional dual controls. Instead, flight control is accomplished through 

the use of the Ground Control Station (GCS) that communicates with the aircraft via radio 

communications. 

Equivalent Level of Safety: When flight instruction is performed, no pilots will be on board the 

aircraft and the GCS will be a safe distance from the aircraft and the public, causing no safety 

hazard. Given the size and speed of the UAS, an equivalent level of safe training can still be 

achieved without dual controls because no pilot or passengers are aboard the aircraft, and all 

persons will be a safe distance away in the event that the aircraft experiences any difficulties 

during flight instruction. In addition, Geosyntec will conduct flight training at a remote facility 

away from populated areas. These training flights will comply with the provisions in the 

Manuals. Accordingly, Geosyntec’s proposed method of operation provides a level of safety that 

exceeds the requirements of 14 CFR §91.109(a). 

I. 14 CFR §91.119(c): Minimum Safe Altitudes in Uncongested Areas 

Geosyntec requests an exemption from the minimum safe altitude requirements of 14 CFR 

§91.119(c). Section 91.119(c) requires that an aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet 

to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure. The Manuals provide for Geosyntec operations at 

least 500 feet from persons and structures not involved in the operations. The FAA has already 

determined that relief from Section 91.119(c) is warranted for UAS operations in uncongested 

areas with similar flight restrictions as those imposed by Geosyntec (see Grant of Exemption No. 

11062, p. 20-21). 

Equivalent Level of Safety: Compared to flight operations with traditional rotorcraft or fixed 

wing aircraft weighing far more and traveling at much higher speeds than the UAS proposed 

herein, and given the lack of flammable fuel, any risk associated with these operations is far less 

than those that presently exist with conventional aircraft. In order to avoid any risk to aircraft, 

flight operations will be restricted to 400 feet AGL or below. Other aircraft are already 
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prohibited from operating closer than 500 from structures where Geosyntec proposes to operate. 

This is airspace where other aircraft do not normally operate. As set forth in the Manuals and 

herein, the UAS will be operated in the remote sites, away from persons or structures not 

involved in the operation. All persons who are not involved with Geosyntec's operations will be 

required to be at least 500 feet from flight operations. An equivalent level of safety will be 

achieved given the size, weight, and speed of the UAS, as well as the locations where it is 

operated.

J. 14 CFR §91.121: Altimeter Settings 

Geosyntec seeks an exemption from 14 CFR §91.121, which requires a person operating an 

aircraft to maintain cruising altitude or flight level by reference to an altimeter that is set to the 

elevation of the departure airport. 

Equivalent Level of Safety: Geosyntec will achieve an equivalent level of safety by monitoring 

altitude data transmitted to the ground station from the UAS barometer and GPS systems and by 

maintaining the UAS within VLOS of the PIC and VO. These methods will be utilized to comply 

with the requirement to operate the UAs at or below 400 feet AGL. 

K. 14 CFR § 91.151(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions

Geosyntec requests an exemption from the fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions as 

outlined in 14 CFR §91.15l(a): 

(a) No person may begin a flight in an airplane 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 – 

(1) During the day, to fly after that for at least 30 minutes; or 

(2) At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes. 

Here, the technological limitations on the UAS battery power means that no meaningful flight 

operations can be conducted while maintaining a 30 minute reserve. The aircraft are battery 

powered with a maximum flight time of approximately 15 minutes for the 3DR X8+ and 

approximately 40 minutes for the 3DR AERO-M. 

Equivalent Level of Safety: The PIC will ensure that before each flight, there is enough available 

power for the UAS to conduct the intended operation and to operate after that for at least five 
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minutes or with the reserve power recommended by the manufacturer if greater. The FAA has 

stated that an equivalent level of safety is provided if the UAS flight is conducted under daytime 

VFR flight conditions using VLOS, and terminated with at least 25% reserve battery power still 

available (see Grant of Exemption No. 11062, p. 21-22). 

L. 14 CFR §91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(2); 91.417(a) and (b): 

Maintenance Inspections

Geosyntec seeks an exemption from the maintenance inspection requirements contained in 14 

CFR§ 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(2); 91.417(a) and (b). These regulations specify

maintenance and inspection standards in reference to 14 CFR Part 43. An exemption from these 

regulations is needed because Part 43 and these sections only apply to aircraft with an

airworthiness certificate, which the UAS proposed here will not have. 

Equivalent Level of Safety: An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because maintenance 

and inspections will be performed in accordance with the Manuals. This includes maintenance, 

overhaul, replacement, and preflight inspection requirements. Geosyntec will follow the UAS

manufacturer's maintenance requirements. As provided in the Manuals, flights will not be 

conducted unless a successful pre-flight safety check is completed to verify that the UAS is safe 

for operation. 

VI. PUBLIC INTEREST

Granting Geosyntec’s request for exemption furthers the public interest. National policy set by 

Congress favors early integration of UAS into the NAS in controlled, safe working environments 

such as proposed in this request. By granting this request, the FAA will fulfill Congress's intent 

of allowing UAS to operate safely in the NAS before completion of the rulemaking required 

under Section 332 of the Reform Act. 

Moreover, use of UAS will improve efficiency and reduce costs for Geosyntec’s clients by 

reducing the time and expense necessary to collect aerial data. The use of the proposed UAS will 

also help to decrease safety-related incidents involving traditional aircraft. Furthermore, use of 

the UAS for the purposes described herein will help to minimize worker exposure to certain 

hazards associated with performance of activities through traditional means, e.g., using a scissor 

lift to inspect elevated equipment. The public has an interest in reducing the hazards associated 

with conducting such activities via non-UAS methodologies. 
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VII. PRIVACY

All flights will occur over private property with the owner's consent. All flights will be 

conducted in accordance with any federal, state or local laws regarding privacy.

VIII. SUMMARY FOR FEDERAL REGISTER

Pursuant to 14 CFR Part 11, the following summary is provided for publication in the Federal 

Register, should it be determined that publication is needed: 

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. seeks an exemption from the following rules for the 

commercial operation of a small unmanned aircraft system to perform aerial data 

acquisition: 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H; 14 CFR Part 27; 14 CFR §45.23(b); 14 CFR § 

45.27(a); 14 CFR § 61.113; 14 CFR § 91.7(a); 14 CFR §91.9(b)(2); 14 CFR § 91.9(c); 

14 CFR § 91.103; 14 CFR § 91.109(a); 14 CFR § 91.119; 14 CFR § 91.121; 14 CFR § 

91.151(a) & (b) 14 CFR § 91.203 (a) & (b); 14 CFR § 91.405(a); 14 CFR § 91.407(a)(l); 

14 CFR § 91.409(a)(2); 14 CFR § 91.417 (a) & (b). The exemption will enhance safety 

by reducing risk to the operator, the general public and property owners from the 

substantial hazards associated with performing equivalent work using traditional means. 

Geosyntec requests that the FAA grant this petition using the "summary grant" process such that 

publication in the Federal Register is not required. This petition would not set a precedent, and 

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

Geosyntec believes that operation of the UAS described herein in strict accordance with FAA 

policies and regulations, the conditions of the requested Section 333 exemption, Geosyntec’s 

safety policies, and UAS manufacturer’s recommendations will provide an equivalent or greater 

level of safety as compared to manned aircraft performing the same function. 

Geosyntec appreciates your time and consideration of this matter. If you should have any 

questions or concerns related to this Section 333 exemption request, or require further 

information, please contact Brandon Mogan by e-mail at BMogan@Geosyntec.com or by 

telephone at (803) 422-5251. 

Sincerely,

Brandon Mogan, P.E., LEED AP

Senior Engineer 

Robby White

Associate

Attachments:

Attachment A: Geosyntec UAS Pre-Flight Safety Check

Attachment B: Pre-Flight Safety Checklist

Attachment C: 3DR X8+ Operation Manual 

Attachment D: 3DR AERO-M Operation Manual 
ATTACHMENT A

GEOSYNTEC UAS PRE-FLIGHT SAFETY CHECK 

PROCEDURES
Attachment A

GEOSYNTEC UAS PRE-FLIGHT SAFETY CHECK 

PROCEDURES

The following safety check will be performed prior to every flight:

Unmanned Aircraft Inspection Procedure: 

• Motors – Grasp the aircraft body with one hand and the motor with the other. With 

moderate firmness, attempt to push each motor from side to side. If the motors moves, 

tighten motor mounting hardware. 

• Propellers – Utilize propeller wrench or other tool to check that the propeller is tightly 

affixed to each motor. Visually inspect each propeller for deformations or other visible 

anomalies. If deformations or anomalies are identified, replace propeller(s) prior to 

operation.

• Airframe – Visually inspect airframe for deformations or other visible anomalies. If 

deformations or anomalies are identified, replace applicable components prior to 

operation. 

• Foldable, retractable, or removable components – If the unmanned aircraft 

comprises components that are foldable, retractable, or removable, e.g., for the 

purposes of storage and transportation between flights, such components shall be 

configured in the proper position for flight and inspected for tightness prior to 

operation.

Pre-Arm Safety Check Procedure:

• Unmanned Aircraft (UA) Position - Verify that the unmanned aircraft (UA) is in a 

safe position for takeoff (level ground at a safe distance from persons or property).

• Telemetry Radio - Install telemetry link on the ground station.

• Radio Controller - Turn on the radio controller (RC), verify sufficient RC battery 

remains. Confirm that the RC switch positions are in the intended positions for the 

mission. Verify that all sticks and switches move freely.

• Battery Installation - Connect the power supply to the UA, verify power supply is 

secure. Confirm that power-on tones sound in proper sequence.
• Ground Station/UA Telemetry Link - Connect the ground station to the UA by 

selecting the proper port and clicking “connect” in the ground station software. Verify 

that the ground station to UA telemetry link has been established by manually changing 

the pitch and/or heading of the UA and observing the results on the ground station.

• GPS signal - Verify that the UA GPS signal is adequate via the ground station (e.g., 

“GPS Fix”).

• Compass - Verify that the compass properly calibrated by manually configuring the 

UA compass to point in a known direction and verifying the direction is accurate via 

the ground station. If compass heading is not accurate, complete a compass calibration.

• Battery Charge - Observe the battery level via the ground station or other device to 

confirm that there is sufficient charge to complete the mission with at least five minutes 

of power reserve.

• Status Indicators - Confirm that there are no warning/errors by observing the status 

lights on the flight controller or warning/error messages displayed on the ground 

station.

• If using autonomous flight functionality:

o Flight Area - Verify proper flight area using aerial imagery (e.g., Google, Bing 

Maps, etc.) within the ground station and visual observation of the flight area.

o Home Position - Confirm that the home (i.e., takeoff) location is set.

o Flight Path - Confirm that the planned flight path is a sufficient distance from 

persons or property, within visual line of sight of the PIC, and below applicable 

altitude restrictions (e.g., less than 200 feet AGL if operating under a “blanket” 

COA). 

All UA inspections and pre-arm safety checks will be documented in a log by the PIC. If the UA 

inspection and/or pre-arm safety check is not successful, UA operation will be suspended until 

maintenance/repair is conducted and a successful UA inspections/pre-arm safety checks has been 

completed. Maintenance/repair will be performed in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
ATTACHMENT B

GEOSYNTEC UAS PRE-FLIGHT SAFETY 

CHECK LOG
Pilot in Command (PIC):

Visual Observer (VO):

Unmanned Aircraft (UA) Identification:

Date:

General Flight Area:

PRE-FLIGHT SAFETY CHECKLIST1

Pre-Flight Requirements

Requirement Complete? Result

NOTAM Filed

Letter of Agreement Obtained2

Unmanned Aircraft (UA) Inspection

Component Complete? Result

Motor Inspection

Propeller Inspection

Airframe Inspection

Foldable, Retractable, and 

Removable Component Inspection

UA Pre-Arm Safety Check

Safety Check Item Complete? Result

UA Position

Telemetry Radio

Radio Controller

Battery Installation

Ground Station/UA Telemetry Link

GPS Signal

Compass

Battery Charge

Status Indicators

Autonomous Flight Safety Check

Safety Check Item Complete? Result

Flight Area

Home Position

Flight Path

Notes:

1) Checklist must be completed prior to operation and maintained in a log book. If any of the safety checks fail, corrective measures must be 

completed and a passing safety check completed prior to operation.

2) If operating under an FAA Blanket COA, no flights can be conducted within 5 nautical miles (NM) from an airport having an operational 

control tower; or 3 NM from an airport with a published instrument flight procedure, but not an operational tower; or 2 NM from an airport 

without a published instrument flight procedure or an operational tower; or 2 NM from a heliport with a published instrument flight 

procedure. If operating under a COA specific to the airspace/operation (non-blanket) and within 5 miles of an airport/heliport, a letter of 

agreement must be obtained by the airport/heliport management in advance of UA operations.
ATTACHMENT C

3DR X8+ OPERATION MANUAL
X8+

Operation Manual
Meet the X8

+

Thank you for purchasing an X8+! The X8 is a powerful octocopter platform for aerial video. Review this manual in its entirety before your first flight. Additional instructions can be found in the X8 information portal at 3DR.com/X8/info. Happy flying!
Contents

Parts 2Setup 4Assembly 4Ground Station 5Power Management 7Charging 8Safety 8Controller Battery 9Powering the X8 10Connecting to a Ground Station 11Flight Basics 12Safety 12Operating Limits 13Controls 14Modes 17Return to Launch 19Failsafes 20Status Indicators 22

Flight Procedures Takeoff Landing Monitoring Missions Planning Saving Initiating Ending Appendix Troubleshooting Maintenance Specs Resources 
Parts

USB adapter

Ground Station Radio

Android adapter

SF propellers (4)SFP propellers (4)

Charger and accessories

Guard bag

RC Controller Propellers Battery Kit 

Flight battery Radio
X8+
Setup: AssemblyThe X8 arrives in travel configuration. Complete these steps to prepare the X8 for flight.1 Unfold Arms

12

Remove the bolts and thumbnuts near the two folded black arms (1). Unfold the black arms, re-insert the bolts, and secure with the thumbnuts (2).12

X8 Assembly: Unfold Arms
2 Unfold LegsRemove the bolts and nuts to the inside of the folded legs (1), unfold the legs, re-insert the bolts, and secure with the nuts (2).

3 Attach PropelleThe X8 uses SF and SFP propeller packages and below shows which motassembly of SF and SFP To attach each propellerand add the correct type the sky. (This is a tight fit; motor.) Replace the waswrench to tighten the nu

12

X8 Assembly: Unfold Legs

top motor: SF

bottom motor: SFP

bottom motor: SF

top motor: SFP

X8 Prop
Ground StationA ground station is a laptop or tablet running an ArduPilot-compatible mission control application. In the field, a ground station helps you monitor the X8 during flight, plan missions, and troubleshoot issues. We recommend using a ground station at all times with the X8. To set up a ground station, choose a platform below and visit 3DR.com/download_software to install the application.

Windows

Mission Planner

OS X

APM Planner

Android

DroidPlanner 2

Important Note About Vehicle Setup in Mission Planner and APM Planner:Your X8 has been pre-configured at the factory and is ready to fly. Re-performing the calibrations on the Initial Setup screen, including the mandatory hardware configurations and setup wizard, can adversely affect the performance of your aircraft.iOS? There are currently no ground station applications available for iOS.
Power ManagementThe X8 is powered by a rechargeable lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. When fully charged, the battery provides up to 15 minutes of flight time depending on payload, environmental conditions, and flying style. Flying with a gimbal, GoPro, and FPV system can reduce flight time by up to 5 minutes. Flying aggressively or in high winds can affect power consumption and reduce flight time. Monitor power consumption using the flight data display on the controller (press and hold the DN button).When the battery reaches the low voltage limit, the X8 initiates a low battery failsafe and lands automatically at the current position. (See page 20 for more information about failsafes.) To avoid a low battery failsafe, regularly check the controller’s flight data display to monitor battery voltage, and end your flight before the battery reaches the low voltage limit.

Press a

button to 

flight battery mAh consumed since arme

Another way to monitor power consumption Monitor the mAh on the controller, and ensuexceed 8,000 mAh (80% of the battery’s avmAh can render the battery permanently un

Do not exceed 8,000 mAh for a fu

flight battery level Full battery: 16.8 VLow battery limit: 14 V

End your flight at 14.1 V.

!

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1

!
ChargingCharge the battery before your first flight!1 Connect the charger to the power adapter cable and plug the adapter cable into a wall outlet. Connect the red cable to the + port and the black cable to the - port.

+

–

2 Set the charger to LiPo and 3A.

LiPo 3A

3 Connect the battery’s white connector to the charger’s 4S port, and join the two yellow connectors together. 

4S

4 Secure the battery inside the guard bag, and charge until the status indicator displays green.

Charging

Complete

Charger with power cable and split-wire charging cable

Charger settings

Flight battery charging wiring Charging in process
Controller BatteryThe controller is powered by 8 AA batteries (included). The controller’s flight data display allows you to monitor the voltage of the controller. When fully charged, the controller displays 12 V; when completely out of charge, the controller displays 9 V. Replace the batteries when the controller displays 9.1 V.

Press a

button to v

controller battery level (9-12 V)

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1 Replace controller batteries at 9.1 

!
10

Powering the X8

Follow these steps to power the X8.

2

To power on the X8, join the yellow connector on the battery with 

the yellow connector on the X8. Keep the X8 still and level while 

it powers on and initializes the sensors. When the status LED 

displays blinking blue, the sensors have completed initialization and 

you can move the X8.

It is important to establish 

communication before powering 

on the X8. Always turn on the 

controller before connecting the 

battery. When powering off the 

X8, disconnect the battery before 

turning off the controller.

1

Turn on the controller. Ensure that the switches 

are set to CH 7 OFF, STD, and RTL OFF.

RC controller

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

X8: Connect battery, keep level while initializing

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

CH 7 switch Mode switch RTL switch

Initializing, keep still and level

Initializing complete

Status LED indicators:

3

When the initialization process is complete, turn over 

the X8 and secure the battery to the underside of the 

vehicle using the velcro straps.

X8: Secure battery

!
11

Connecting to a Ground Station

To connect the X8 to a ground station, connect the ground station radio to 

your laptop or tablet and power the X8.

Tablet (DroidPlanner)

1 

Connect the ground station radio to your 

laptop using the USB adapter. Open 

Mission Planner or APM Planner.

3

Select Flight Data to view live data from the X8.

2

Select AUTO and 57600, then select CONNECT. 

(When connecting directly to Pixhawk’s 

micro-USB port, set the rate to 115200.)

Ground station laptop with radio connected

Mission Planner Connect tool (top-right corner)

Mission Planner Flight Data tab: connected to aircraft

Laptop (Mission Planner/APM Planner)

1

Connect the blue end of the Android adapter 

to your device and the black end to the radio.

2

Select Connect.

Ground station tablet with radio connected DroidPlanner: Connect icon
Flight Basics: Safety

To ensure safe and successful flying, always fly in accordance with your location regulations and these best operating practices.Before you fly, determine the boundaries of your safe flying area. If the X8 moves outside the designated area or exhibits instability in flight, switch to standard mode and land the X8 manually.The X8 cannot avoid obstacles on its own, including during missions. As the operator, it’s your responsibility to recognize and avoid obstructions while flying. Always be ready to regain manual control of the X8 in the event of an unsafe situation. 

visual line of sight 

100 ft (30 m) 

Always fly below 400 ft (120 m) and within your visual line of sight. Don’t let the X8 get too far away from you; make sure you can always see its orientation. Don’t fly in low light, high winds, rain, or other conditions that might impede visibility.

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Spinnbuttopreveprope•    •     

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Location

Propellers
Operating LimitsAlways fly within the X8’s operating limits.

Maximum altitude* 100 m (328 ft)Range* 300 m (984 ft) from launch pointGPS lock GPS lock required at all timesMaximum estimated flight time 15 minPayload capacity 800 g (1.7 lbs)

X8+ Operating Limits*While geofence enabled (default)
14

Maneuver the X8 in flight using the 

controller’s two joysticks.

left stick:

throttle

& yaw

right stick:

pitch

& roll

Left Stick

Left Stick

Move the throttle 

stick below center to 

decrease altitude. 

Set the throttle stick 

to center to maintain 

the current altitude.

left stick

Left Stick

Left Stick

Move the left stick vertically to control altitude.

Set the throttle stick 

fully down to land 

once the X8 is a few 

inches above the 

ground.

Left Stick

To take off and to 

gain altitude, push the 

throttle stick slightly 

above center position. 

Left Stick Left Stick

Controls

Throttle
15

Flight Tip

When adjusting orientation, move the left stick horizontally without changing its 

vertical position.

ver + Land

wer just slightly

hover

ft Yaw

Left

Righ

ght Yaw

activate

d until propellers

p spinning

ver + Land

wer just slightly

hover

ft Yaw

Left

Righ

ght Yaw

activate

ld until propellers

p spinning

Move the stick to 

the left to rotate 

counterclockwise.

Move the stick 

to the right to 

rotate clockwise.

left stick

Left Stick

Release the stick to 

stop rotating and 

maintain the current 

orientation.

Move the left stick horizontally to rotate the X8 and change orientation. 

For a slow rotation, move the stick slightly away from the center

in either direction. Moving the stick farther from the center creates 

a faster rotation.

Left Stick

Yaw
16

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Move the right 

stick forward 

to fly forward.

right stick

Move the right 

stick back to fly 

backward.

The right stick allows you to control the X8’s position in the air. Move the right stick to tell the 

X8 to move in that direction: forward (toward the blue arms), back (toward the black arms), 

left (toward the left arms), or right (towards the right arms). How far you move the stick from 

the center before releasing it tells the X8 how fast to move. 

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Move the right 

stick left to fly 

left.

Move the right 

stick right to fly 

right.

Flight Tip

The X8 moves according to its orientation. The blue arms face forward, and the black 

arms face backward. Before using the right stick, use yaw to keep the X8 facing in 

outward orientation so that the black arms face towards you and the blue arms and face 

away from you.

Pitch and Roll
17

!

Standard (altitude hold mode)

STD

fly manually

Start your flight in standard to select altitude hold mode, 

and fly manually using the controller.

Loiter mode

LTR

hover

Select loiter to hover in place automatically. Use the controller 

to adjust the X8’s position then release the sticks to hold 

that position. Loiter is a great way for beginners to learn how to fly! 

If you’re new to flying, start your first flight in loiter instead of standard.

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

mode switch

The X8 includes three flight modes: manual flight 

(STD-altitude hold), hover mode (LTR-loiter), and 

mission flight (AUTO). Use the switch on the 

right side of the controller to select a flight mode.

To avoid sudden changes in altitude, set the throttle 

stick to center position before switching modes, 

including in the event of a GPS failsafe. See page 20 

for more information about failsafes.

Modes
18

Auto mode

AUTO

fly a mission

Select auto mode to fly an autonomous mission. The X8 

automatically flies the series of waypoints saved to the autopilot. 

See the Missions section on page 28 for instructions on planning and flying missions.

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

Gimbal control

TILT

tilt the camera up and down

Connect a Tarot Gimbal (sold separately), and use the TILT knob to control the 

angle of the camera in flight. Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for instructions. Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Land

CH 7

land at the current position

Set the CH 7 switch to ON to end your flight and land at the current position. 

Once you activate land, set the throttle stick fully down, and the X8 

automatically disarms after landing. The X8 does not disarm automatically 

unless the throttle stick is set fully down.

Reposition during landing: During landing, use the right 

stick on the controller to adjust the X8’s position.

! Do not activate auto mode unless you have saved 

a mission to the X8 using a ground station application.
19

land at the launch point

Set the RTL switch to ON to end your flight and return the X8 to 

the launch point automatically. Once you activate RTL, set the 

throttle stick fully down, and the X8 automatically disarms after 

landing. The X8 does not disarm automatically unless the throttle 

stick is set fully down.

When commanded to RTL, the X8:

1 Achieves minimum altitude of 15 m (50 ft) or maintains current altitude 

 if above 15 m.

2 Moves to launch point and loiters for 5 seconds.

3 Lands at launch point. Wait for a few seconds until the X8 disarms 

automatically.

launch point

1 15 meters 2

3

hover 5 seconds

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

Return to Launch

Reposition during landing: During landing, use the right 

stick on the controller to adjust the X8’s position.

! RTL returns the X8 to the location where it was armed. 

Always arm the X8 at a safe, unobstructed launch point.
20

Failsafes

400 ft

(120 m)

400 ft

(120 m)

Low Battery Failsafe

Environmental conditions, payload, and flying style can affect power 

consumption. Use the controller’s flight data display to monitor the 

voltage of the battery during flight.

If the battery reaches 14 V, the X8 lands automatically at the current 

position, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED and a quick 

repeating tone.

The X8 is programmed with a set of failsafe behaviors to prevent a crash in 

the event of a loss of one of the data or communication channels required for 

flight. Although certain failsafes have assigned LED indicators and tones, it is 

unlikely that you will be able to see these at a distance. Monitor the ground 

station for failsafe indications. If a failsafe is triggered, the assigned behavior 

activates. To override the failsafe behavior, use the controller to switch to 

standard mode and regain manual control. 

RC Controller Signal Failsafe

Physical obstructions and interference from nearby wireless signals can affect 

the X8’s connection with the controller. 

If the X8 loses contact with the controller, it returns to the launch point and lands 

automatically, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED.
21

GPS Failsafe

The X8 requires GPS lock before takeoff. Enclosed areas, physical 

obstructions, and lack of available satellites can affect GPS strength. If 

the X8 loses GPS lock in flight, it triggers a GPS failsafe—indicated by 

a blinking blue and yellow LED with a high-high-high-low tone—and 

automatically switch to manual control (standard - altitude hold mode). 

Always be prepared to regain manual control at any time while flying and 

choose an unobstructed flying area to improve GPS signal strength. When 

flying a mission, we recommended changing the GPS failsafe behavior to 

land. (Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for more information about configuring the 

GPS failsafe.)

Altitude Failsafe

The X8 has a 100 m (328 ft) altitude geofence enabled by default. If the 

geofence is breached, the X8 automatically switches to RTL.

400 ft

(120 m)

manual 

control

100 m

(328 ft)

Range Failsafe

The X8 has a 300 m (984 ft) horizontal geofence enabled by 

default. If the X8 travels farther than 300 m from the launch point, 

it automatically returns to the launch point and lands. If you plan to 

fly a mission that exceeds this range, you will need to disable the 

horizontal geofence. (Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for instructions.) The 

range failsafe is disabled in the event of a GPS failsafe.
22

Status Indicators

Low battery, automatic landing

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing

Pre-arm safety check failure—connect to a ground station 

and see the troubleshooting section

Loss of GPS signal, switch to standard mode (altitude hold)

Initializing, hold the X8 still and level

Acquiring GPS, please wait

Armed

Autopilot ready, GPS locked

Status LED

The Pixhawk LED indicates the status of the X8. During flight, the LED won’t 

be visible; instead, use a ground station to view the status of the X8. Visit 

3DR.com/X8/info to listen to Pixhawk’s status tones.

X8 Status LED

LED
23

Safety Button

The safety button indicates the status of the motors 

to allow you to arm and disarm the X8 safely.

Safety button

X8 Safety Button

Motors inactive, safe to handle

Motors active, deactivate before handling
24

Flight Procedures: Takeoff

Follow these steps to take off.

» Propellers are attached tightly to the motors in the correct order and 

 the GPS mast is oriented vertically.

» The X8 is powered with the battery secured to the underside of the 

 vehicle. (Remember to hold the X8 still and level while the sensors 

 initialize.)

» The controller is set to CH 7 OFF, standard (STD) mode (loiter mode for 

 beginners), and RTL OFF.

» The status LED displays blinking green, indicating that the X8 has 

 acquired GPS lock. This can take a few minutes depending on your 

 flying location. 

» The X8 is situated at a safe, unobstructed launch point, facing away 

 from you.

Checklist
25

Arm

After completing the checklist, you’re ready to fly! Arming and disarming are 

important steps that must be completed before takeoff and after landing. 

Use the safety button and the controller to arm the X8.

1

Press and hold the safety button until it 

displays solid red. This indicates that the 

X8 is now active. Stand back!

Motors inactive, safe to handle

Motors active, deactivate before 

handling

2

To arm the motors, hold the left stick 

down/right until the motors spin.

Controller left stick: arming position

Safety button indicators

! The arming and disarming procedures ensure that you can safety start and 

stop motors without risk of injury. The X8’s motors will spin when armed! Make 

sure the propellers are clear of any obstructions, including your hands, before 

arming. Do not handle the propellers or pick up the X8 while the safety button 

is active (solid red).
Landing

1Press and hold the safety button until it blinks red. The motors are now inactive, and the X8 is safe to handle.

2To disarm the motors, hold the left stick down/left until the motors stop.

Disarm

For manual landing in standard or loiter mode:

Motors inactive, safe to handle

Motors active, deactivate before handling

Safety button indicators Controller left stick: disarming position

! Do not handle the propellers or pick up the copter while the safety button is active (solid red). Remember to disconnect the battery before turning off the 

controller when powering off.

If you end your flight using the Ch 7 land command or RTL, the X8 disarms automatically; wait for the motors to stop, and proceed to powering off. Attempting to disarm the X8 in either land mode or RTL mode can cause the cause the copter to flip.
Monitoring

Press and hold the DN button to access the flight data screensPress DN again to toggle between screens.

current flight modecontroller battery leGPS signal strengt

meters from launch point

flight battery level (

connection strength

current latitude

current longitude

altitude in meters

flight time

altitude in meters

GPS status

speed in m/s

flight battery mAh consumed since aEnd your flight at 1Do not exceed 800fully charged X8+ available capacity)

!

Monitor the X8 in flight using the controller’s flight data screens.

Controller

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 2
MissionsThe X8’s Pixhawk autopilot is capable of flying an autonomous mission without operator input. Ensure that you feel comfortable operating the X8 manually before attempting an autonomous mission.Environmental AwarenessBefore you fly, assess the features of your flying area. Determine the boundaries of the safe flying area, and be prepared to recover the copter manually if it goes outside this area. Be aware of any risks at your location, including bodies of water, structures, trees, etc. Designate a few areas as safety zones where you can safely land the copter in case of an unsafe situation.Radio Signal ConditionsFlying behind solid objects, like buildings and trees, blocks radio signals. Always maintain visual contact with the copter to ensure that the radio signal is unobstructed. Radio towers, cell phone towers, and nearby WiFi signals can also cause interference with the radio system and decrease its range. Avoid flying in populated areas to avoid sources of interference. AltitudeSelect an appropriate altitude for your flying location and local regulations. Remember the X8 cannot avoid obstacles during a mission; it completes the mission as planned. Select altitudes that avoid any obstacles, such as trees, and comply with the safety information in this manual.SpeedBy default, the X8 travels at 6.5 m/s (14.5 mph) during a mission. 

PowerAs the operator, it is your with the X8’s operating limaccount the effect of curRegaining Manual ContDuring a mission, keep thregain manual control at mission, switch to standainstability in the X8’s flighdesignated safe flying areautomatically triggers an as a hard recall commanFailsafesThe X8’s default failsafe bautonomous missions, wfor your flying location. F
Planning

Select the DroidPlanner icon, select Editor. Tap to add waypoints, or select the brush tool and draw a path for the X8 to follow.

Select Flight Plan, and clicthe bottom of the screen t

To plan a mission, power the X8 and connect to your ground station. Ground station applications require an Internet connection to access maps.Tablet (DroidPlanner) Laptop (Mission Planner

DroidPlanner: Edit waypoints Mission Planne

Takeoff and LandingBoth ground station applications provide the option to configure automatic takeoff and landing into the mission. Missions without automatic takeoff and landing must be initiated and ended in flight.
SavingSelect the option menu in the top-right corner, and select Send Mission. This command saves the mission 

to the X8.

On the Flight Plan scSelect Save WP File to 

After planning the mission, save the mission to the X8. The Pixhawk autopilot can store one mission at a time. When you initiate the mission, the X8 starts the mission stored to the autopilot at the time. 

Tablet (DroidPlanner) Laptop (Mission P

DroidPlanner: Send Mission (option menu)

Mission Planner: Flight Pla
Initiating

StabalizeAltitude HoldLoiterFull AutonomyReturn to Launch

Left Stick

For auto-takeoff, raise throttle to start mission.

Once you’ve saved the mission to the X8, follow these steps to fly the mission.

1 Perform a pre-mission test flight.Follow the standard takeoff procedure, and fly a brief test flight to verify that all controls (throttle, yaw, roll, and pitch) are responding normally.

2 Arm in standard mode.When you’re ready to start the mission, arm the X8 in standard (STD) mode.

3 Switch to auto mode.For automatic takeoff, arm the X8 in standard mode. Then switch to auto mode, and raise the throttle to initiate the mission.For manual takeoff, initiate the mission in flight by switching to auto mode.

Controller: mode switch Controller: mode switch Controller: left stick
Appendix: TroubleshootingMaintenancePre-Arm Safety Check Failure`If the status LED displays blinking yellow, the X8 is failing one of the pre-arm safety checks. To determine heads-up display on the ground station for the error message specifying the failed check.Radio Calibration Failure: Perform radio calibration or RC controller re-bindingAccelerometer Calibration Failure: Perform accelerometer calibrationCompass Calibration Failure: Perform compass calibration GPS Failure: Wait for improved GPS signal or move to a more open area (moVideo tutorials for performing calibrations are available at 3DR.com/X8/info.Replacement parts for the X8 are available for purchase at store.3DR.com.Instructions for replacing the wiring, plates, motors, and legs of the X8 are available at 3DR.com/X8/info.
SpecsBattery: 4S 14.8V 10,000 mAh 10CBattery Dimensions: 6.6 in x 2.6 in x 1.4 in (16.7 cm x 6.5 cm x 3.5 cm)Battery Weight: 803 gAutopilot Hardware: Pixhawk v2.4.5Autopilot Firmware: ArduCopter 3.2GPS: 3DR u-blox GPS with Compass (LEA-6H module, 5 Hz update)Ground Station Radio: 3DR Radio v2 (915 MHz or 433 MHz)Motors: SunnySky V2216-12 KV800 IIFrame Type: XPropellers: APC Propeller 11x4.7 SF (4)

APC Propeller 11x4.7 SFP (4)

Vehicle Dimensions: 13.7 in x 20.1 in x 11.8 in (35 cm x 51 cm x 20 cm)Payload Capacity: 800 g (1.7 lbs)Vehicle Weight with Battery: 2.56 kg (5.6 lbs)Maximum Altitude*: 100 m Range*: 300 m from launch point (1 km when geofence disabled)Maximum Estimated Flight Time: 15 min*While geofence enabled (default)
For more information about the X8, 

ur support line at 

8 am to 5 pm PST.
ATTACHMENT D

3DR AERO-M OPERATION MANUAL
Aero-M

Operation Manual

Thank you for purchasing an Aero-M! This manual contains important information about your 

aerial mapping platform. Please read these instructions before your first flight. 

1 Plan 1

2 Fly 20

3 Process 37

Appendix 41

V.3 2014

©3D Robotics

DCT0010

Online information portal: 3DR.com/Aero-M

3DR support: help@3DR.com

Terms and conditions: 3DR.com/terms

Pix4D instructions: support.Pix4D.com
1

1 Plan

Parts 2

Flight Battery 3

Charging 3

Safety 3

Powering the Aero 4

Camera Setup 5

3DR EAI 5

Charging 5

Starting a Mission 5

Mounting 6

Ground Station Setup 7

Download Software 7

Connect to Radio 7

Mission Planning 8

Operating Parameters 8

Load Maps 9

Draw Polygon 10

Configure Survey 11

Save and Write Mission 19
2

Parts

Aero

wings propellers (1 

plus 1 spare)

camera

RC controller and 

accessories

battery guard bag

batteries (2)

charger and 

accessories

ground station radio

micro-USB cable

Pixhawk micro-SD 

card adapter

hex keys (?)

propeller wrench

horizontal stabilizer

wing spar

spare camera 

mount filters (2)

spare control horns 

(2)

wing rubber bands 

(4 plus 2 spare)

spare servo rods (2)

FPV/OSD System 

If you selected to receive a FPV/OSD system, those components 

will be included with the Aero’s accessories. See page 34 for 

parts and instructions.

registration card and 

Pix4D license key
3

1 

Connect the charger to the power adapter cable 

and a wall outlet. Connect the red cable to the + 

port and the black cable to the - port.

+

–

2 

Set the charger to LiPo and 3A.

LiPo 3A

3 

Connect the white connector to the 4S port, and 

join the two yellow connectors together. 

4S

4 

Secure the battery inside the guard bag, 

and charge until the status indicator 

displays green.

Charging

Complete

The Aero is powered by a rechargeable lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. 

Charge the battery before your first flight.

!

Flying with a low battery is a safety risk and can render the 

battery permanently unusable. Always fly with a fully charged 

battery. 

Charge the battery using a designated LiPo balance charger 

only. Always monitor the battery while charging. Protect the 

battery from extreme heat, extreme cold, puncturing, and 

flammable surfaces. Always transport, charge, and store the 

battery in the guard bag.

Inspect the battery for damage before and after flying. If you 

observe any swelling of the package or the battery ceases 

to function, do not use the battery; locate your local battery 

recycling center, and dispose of the battery. In the US and 

Canada, visit call2recycle.org to find a location. Do not 

dispose of the battery in the trash.

Flight Battery

Charging Safety

Charger with power cable and 

split-wire charging cable

Charger settings

Flight battery charging wiring Charging in process
4

1

Turn on the controller. To avoid triggering 

the controller’s startup alarm, ensure that 

all switches are set back (away from you) 

and the throttle stick is set fully down.

!

It is important to establish communication before 

powering on the Aero. Always turn on the controller 

before connecting the battery. When powering off 

the Aero, disconnect the battery before turning off 

the controller.

3

Insert a charged battery into the battery slot, 

and attach the yellow connectors. This will 

power on the Aero.

 

Hold the Aero still and level while it powers on.

Attach the velcro above the battery slot to the 

velcro on the battery. Close and secure the lid 

onto the battery compartment.

!

2

Open the battery compartment by 

sliding the knob on the orange switch 

forward and lifting out the lid.

Powering the Aero

RC controller

Throttle stick

Switches

Aero: battery compartment lid

battery slot

battery 

connector

Aero: battery compartment interior

flight battery
5

Camera Setup

The Aero includes a Canon PowerShot S100 running the 3DR EAI script.

SD card locked

Load 3DR EAI

» Fly a mapping mission

SD card unlocked

Load default Canon software

» View images on camera

» Save images to ground station

» Update script

3DR EAI (Exposure-Aperture-ISO)

3DR EAI runs on the Canon Hacker Development Kit (CHDK), a powerful opensource tool that expands the functionality of Canon point-and-shoot cameras. 3DR 

EAI optimizes image exposure and integrates with the Pixhawk autopilot to enable 

distance-based imaging.

This software is designed to load off the camera’s SD card, leaving the original Canon 

programming intact. The yellow switch on the side of the SD card allows you to lock 

or unlock the card. Lock the SD card to run 3DR EAI; unlock the SD card to save 

images to your ground station or to boot the camera with its original programming.

For more information about 3DR EAI, see page 43.

Charging

Charge the camera battery before your first flight. Once 

fully charged, insert the battery into the camera.

status indicator

Starting a Mission

To prepare the camera to fly a mapping mission, ensure that the mode 

dial is set to P (program) mode. Power on the camera using the silver 

button on the top. 3DR EAI will start automatically, and you will see the 

script messages on the camera display. Check to see that the last line 

of the script reads waiting on USB signal. The camera is now ready to map!

power button

Camera ready to map: waiting on USB signal

Canon battery charger

Power off the camera before removing the SD card. !

Camera running 3DR EAI Camera running Canon software

mode dial
6

Mounting 

autopilot integration cable

The camera mounts to the Aero inside the battery compartment 

and connects to the autopilot using the mini-USB cable. When the 

camera is ready to start the mission, insert the camera into the 

mount inside the battery compartment as shown below, connect 

the mini-USB cable to the camera, and secure the camera in place 

using the velcro strap.

Connect mini-USB cable inside 

battery compartment here.

The camera mount includes a lens cap that protects the filter during 

travel. Make sure to remove this lens cap before you fly, and check 

that the filter contains no foam particles, dirt, or scratches that could 

affect image quality.

It is expected that the filter will accumulate scratches after significant 

use. If you notice any damage to the filter that could affect image 

quality, unscrew the filter and replace with one of the extra filters 

provided with the Aero.

UV filter

Aero battery compartment: camera mount

Camera (side)

Camera mount (bottom): cap removed

Camera mount (bottom): cap attached

The camera mount is fixed to the inside of the battery compartment 

and is not intended to be removed from the Aero.
7

Mission Planner

Your license key for Pix4Dmapper can be found on the registration card 

inside the documents package. 

Visit mapper.pix4d.com/license-redeem to create an account and redeem 

your license key; then visit pix4d.com/download to download Pix4Dmapper 

Discovery. Pix4D will automatically upgrade from the Discovery edition to 

the LT 3DR Edition (or Pro Edition if you selected to upgrade) when you 

log in to the program with your Pix4D account information.

Mission Planner is a full-featured ground station application for planning 

missions and monitoring the Aero in flight. Download Mission Planner 

from 3DR.com/download_software.

If you already have Mission Planner installed, make sure you’re running 

the most recent version: Select the Help tab and Check for Updates.

Mission Planner: Help tab

Ground Station Setup

Pix4Dmapper LT 3DR Edition

To connect the Aero to Mission Planner, connect the ground station radio 

to the laptop, and power the Aero.

1 

Connect the ground station radio to your 

laptop using the micro-USB cable. Open 

Mission Planner.

3 

Select Flight Data to view live data from the Aero.

2 

Select 57600 and AUTO, then select CONNECT. 

(When connecting directly to Pixhawk’s 

micro-USB port, set the rate to 115200.)

Download Software Connect to Radio

Mission Planner allows you to turn a Windows laptop into a full-featured 

ground station for configuring and monitoring autonomous missions. You will 

need to take this laptop into the field when you fly the mission. As part of the 

mission procedure, you will use the Pix4D Rapid Check to verify the quality of 

the image set before leaving the field.

Ground station laptop with radio connected

Mission Planner Connect tool (top-right corner))

Mission Planner Flight Data tab: connected to aircraft
8

The Aero is a complete solution for creating 

high-resolution visual-spectrum aerial maps. 

Pixhawk 

autopilot 

system

Pix4Dmapper 

LT 3DR Edition

Canon S100

3DR EAI

To create a map, the Aero flies an autonomous mission over 

the survey site, using the integration between the Pixhawk 

autopilot and custom-programmed camera to capture images 

at a consistent distance interval. Pix4Dmapper then stitches 

these images together into a georeferenced, orthorectified 

mosaic.

The accuracy of the map depends on the configuration of the 

mission. Planning a mission that captures high-quality images 

requires balancing the Aero’s operating parameters with the 

environmental factors at the survey site.

Operating Parameters

Camera Canon S100

Camera Orientation Portrait (side facing forward)

Operating Altitude 80-120 m

Standard Operating Altitude 100 m

Low-Wind Conditions 0-6 m/s

High-Wind Conditions 7-10 m/s 

Maximum Wind Conditions 10 m/s

Operating Speed 8-20 m/s

Default Speed 15 m/s

Estimated Maximum Flight Time 40 min

Estimated Ground Resolution 5 cm/pixel

Estimated Maximum Survey Area 1 km2

Minimum Photo Interval 2 seconds

Mission Planning

Operating Parameters

Mapping system diagram
9

1

Open Mission Planner, select Flight Plan, and 

zoom to your flying location. 

2

Right-click on the map, select Map Tool and 

Prefetch, and accept the default prompts. 

Mission Planner will download the maps 

for the selected location to your computer. 

3

Mission Planner will attempt to load the map data from the current level of zoom down to the 

closest level of zoom available. However, it can take hours to pre-fetch every level of zoom, 

and it is unlikely that the closer levels will be useful in planning the mission. To shortcut this 

process, check the slider on the right side of the map. The levels of zoom are represented by 

this slider from 0 (bottom) to 25 (top). Press the ESC key to skip levels of zoom at a greater 

detail than you need for mission planning.

Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: zoom to mapping location Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: Select Prefetch

Load Maps

Mission Planner allows you to plan the mission away from the mapping location; 

however, it is important to assess the environmental conditions on site at the time 

of the mission and adjust the flight plan if necessary. Alternatively, you can plan 

the entire mission at the mapping location. To create or alter the mission, Mission 

Planner requires an Internet connection to access the maps. If you’re unable to 

access the Internet on site, follow the instructions below to pre-fetch the maps 

within Mission Planner while you have Internet access.
10

2

Right click on the map. Select Draw Polygon and 

Add Polygon Point. Click and drag to add points 

around the area you want to map. 

3

Right click on the polygon. Select Auto WP and 

Survey (Grid) to open the Survey Tool.

Units

The Survey Tool uses metric units. If your Mission Planner is 

set to imperial units, please change the settings to use metric 

to plan the mission. Support for imperial units in Mission 

Planner is coming soon; check 3DR.com/Aero-M for updates.

Draw Polygon

To begin planning the mapping mission, select the area you want to map using 

the Polygon tool. You’ll be able to adjust the size and shape of the polygon later in 

the mission configuration process.

1

Select Flight Plan, and zoom to your 

mapping location.

Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: zoom to mapping location

Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: draw polygon

Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: open Survey tool

!
11

Set Camera

Canon S100-S120

Set Camera Orientation

Uncheck the option for Camera top 

facing forward.

Set Default Speed

15 m/s 

Apply Survey Speed

Check the option for Use speed for this mission. 

If unchecked, the mission will use the Aero’s 

default speed of 15 m/s regardless of the 

speed selected in the Survey Tool.

Configure Survey: Set Default Parameters

Mission Planner Survey tool

The Survey tool allows you to configure a mapping mission according to the 

Aero’s operating parameters and the current environmental conditions at the 

mapping location. First, set the default values for the Aero.
12

Set Angle

Wind Direction

In environments with winds of less than 6 m/s, set the angle so that 

the Aero flies into the wind. In winds from 7-10 m/s, configure the 

flight path to travel perpendicular to the wind so the Aero flies crosswind.

No. of Strips 

Adjust the angle so that the Aero makes as few turns as possible to 

complete its course. The No. of Strips parameter shows how many 

passes the plane will make as you adjust the angle. 

Review Wind Conditions On-Site

Always assess the wind conditions at your survey site at the time of 

the mission and adjust the mission accordingly.

Mission Planner Tip: Adjust Polygon

Click and drag the red polygon points to adjust the size 

and shape of the polygon from the Survey Tool. 

Configure Survey: Set Angle

wind

Configure the flight path perpendicular to the 

wind in high winds (7-10 m/s).

Configure the flight path parallel with 

the wind in low winds (1-6 m/s).

wind

wind

Use caution when flying in winds over 10m/s. Mapping results 

may degrade as a result of inability to make headway or maintain 

appropriate groundspeed.

Mission Planner Survey tool

Next configure the angle of the flight path for the current wind conditions.

!
13

Set Altitude

Standard operating altitude: 100 m

Operating altitude range: 80-120 m

Increasing altitude decreases flight time, allowing you to cover more area 

per minute. Decreasing altitude improves ground resolution. Set the altitude to get the best ground resolution while keeping the flight time under 

40 min and the altitude under 120 m.

Keep altitude below 120 m, and ensure that the altitude is appropriate for 

your flying area and local regulations.

Check Flight Time

Flight Time estimates the duration of the mission. The total estimated flight 

time must be under 40 min for a fully charged Aero battery. To decrease 

flight time, increase altitude or speed.

High winds, humidity, high altitude, and extreme heat can affect power 

consumption and reduce flight time. Consider the environmental factors at 

your site when configuring flight time.

Check Ground Resolution

Ground Resolution is the centimeters per pixel that you will have 

in the map and corresponds to the amount of detail that you 

will see.

To improve ground resolution by decreasing the number of 

centimeters per pixel, decrease altitude.

Configure Survey: Set Altitude 

Mission Planner Survey tool

The survey altitude determines the duration of the mission and the ground 

resolution of the final map. Adjust altitude to balance flight time and power 

consumption with the current environmental conditions.

!
14

Check Photo Interval

Photo Every must be longer than 2 seconds for the S100 camera.

Altitude

Increasing altitude increases photo interval.

Keep altitude below 120 m, and ensure that the altitude is 

appropriate for your flying area and local regulations.

Speed

Decreasing speed increases photo interval. 

Ensure that the Use speed for this mission option is checked.

Configure Survey: Check Photo Interval

Mission Planner Survey tool

With the basic parameters in place, verify that the photo interval calculated from 

the altitude and speed complies with the operating parameters for the camera.

!

!
15

Takeoff and Land WP’s

For automatic takeoff and landing

Check the Add Takeoff and Land WP’s option.

Uncheck the Use RTL option. 

This will create a takeoff waypoint and a placeholder waypoint for the landing pattern. After accepting the survey, configure the automatic landing pattern by following 

the instructions on page 20.

For automatic takeoff and manual landing 

Check both the Add Takeoff and Land WP’s option and the Use RTL options. 

This will create a takeoff waypoint so the Aero will automatically climb to the survey 

altitude before heading to the first waypoint. The Aero will return to circle over the 

launch point after completing the mission. 

For manual takeoff and landing

Uncheck the Add Takeoff and Land WP’s option

Check the Use RTL option. 

For this option, take off manually then initiate the mission in flight. The Aero will 

return to circle over the launch point after completing the mission.

Configure Survey: Set Takeoff and Landing 

Mission Planner Survey tool

Now select a takeoff and landing pattern, either manual or automatic.
16

Check Advanced Options

to view the Survey Tool’s advanced configuration options.

Set OverShoot

The Aero has a minimum turning radius of 90 degrees. To accommodate the 

sharp angles of the survey mission, set both OverShoot parameters to 50 to 

have the Aero overshoot the waypoints on either side of the polygon by 50% 

to ensure that the complete area of the polygon is covered by the images.

OverShoot will affect flight time. Ensure that the total estimated flight time is 

less than the Aero’s maximum flight time of 40 minutes.

Adjust Overlap and Sidelap

Overlap and sidelap are set to 50% and 60%, respectively, by default. See 

page 42 for an in-depth discussion of these parameters.

Adjust StartFrom

During the mission, you will maintain contact with the aircraft through the RC 

controller and ground station signals. If your mission is likely to experience a 

loss of signal, it is best practice to start from the corner of the mission farthest 

from the launch point. In this example, TopLeft is the corner of the mission 

farthest from the launch point.

Configure Survey: Advanced Options 

Select Grid Options

Camera Config

The options under the Camera 

Config tab allow you to configure 

a camera other than the S100 

and won’t be used for operating 

the Aero.

!

The Survey tool includes the following advanced configuration options. These options 

allow you to customize the mission to comply with best operating practices.

Mission Planner Survey tool: advanced options

Mission Planner Survey tool: advanced options
17

Before accepting the survey, verify that the mission complies with the 

Aero’s operating parameters. 

Camera

Canon S100-S120

Altitude

80-120 m

Camera top facing forward

unchecked

Flying speed

9-15 m/s

Use speed for this mission

checked (optional if speed set to default speed of 15 m/s)

Photo Every

greater than 2 s

Flight time

under 40 min depending on environmental conditions

Do not accept the mission if any of the parameters 

exceed the Aero’s operating limits.

Operating Parameters

Configure Survey: Accept Survey

Accept

Select Accept to create this mission. After accepting, you 

will need to reconfigure the survey completely to make any 

adjustments.

If Mission Planner prompts you for a home altitude, enter 

the altitude that you specified in the Survey tool.

Mission Planner Survey tool

!
18

Configuring Automatic Takeoff and Landing

If you selected automatic landing in the Survey Tool by checking the Add Takeoff and Land WP’s option and unchecking 

the Use RTL option, you will need to configure the landing waypoint pattern manually at this step in the mission planning 

process.

To begin, determine the direction of the wind and select an unobstructed area 200-500 m in length leading to the 

launch point, into the wind. On the main Flight Plan screen, create a series of waypoints along this path to decrease 

altitude gradually from the survey altitude to 0, ensuring that:

» Turns along the flight path are greater than 90 degrees.

» The altitude decreases by a maximum of 20 m between waypoints

» There is at least 20 m between each waypoint

» The Grad % does not exceed 20% 

To add a waypoint, right click on the map in the location of the waypoint you would like to add, and select Insert WP. For 

each waypoint you add to the mission, Mission Planner will prompt you for the new waypoint’s place in the script: Add 

the series of landing waypoints immediately before the LAND waypoint in the script of events. For the first waypoint in 

the pattern, add it to the mission immediately following the DO_SET_CAM_TRIGG_DIST waypoint at the end of the mission. 

Specify the altitude of each waypoint and check the distance and gradient angle in the waypoints table.

To add a waypoint, right click on the map in the location of the waypoint 

you would like to add, and select Insert WP. For each waypoint you add to 

the mission, Mission Planner will prompt you for the new waypoint’s place 

in the script: Add the series of landing waypoints immediately before the 

LAND waypoint in the script of events. For the first waypoint in the pattern, 

add it to the mission immediately following the DO_SET_CAM_TRIGG_DIST

waypoint at the end of the mission. Specify the altitude of each waypoint 

and check the distance and gradient angle in the waypoints table.

Set altitude.

Check Grad %.

Mission Planner Tip: Configure Waypoints

Measure the distance between waypoints by right-clicking at one 

end and selecting Measure Distance; then right-click on the other end 

and select Measure Distance again. A dialog box will open with the 

distance between the two points.

Double-click on a field in the waypoint table to edit the parameters 

for a waypoint.

Use the Up and Down arrow icons to re-order the waypoints.

Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: Correctly configured automatic landing pattern Use the Delete option to remove a waypoint from the mission.

Locate the Takeoff waypoint in the mission script and set the 

first option in the row to assign the takeoff angle.

Set the takeoff angle to 20-25 degrees depending on the 

length of your takeoff area.

Takeoff angle
19

Select Write WPs

to save the mission to the Aero.

Select Save WP File

to save the mission file to your computer. To 

repeat this mapping mission, load the saved 

WP file from your computer.

For the Aero to run the mission, write the waypoint file to the autopilot. 

Don’t forget to save the waypoint file to your ground station for future use.

Save and Write Mission

Mission Planner Flight Plan tab: Save and write mission
20

2 Fly

Safety 21

Aircraft Operation 22

Components 22

Assembly 23

Controls 26

Modes 27

Arming and Disarming 28

LED Indicators and Tones 28

GPS Lock 28

Preflight Checks 29

Manual and Automatic Takeoff 32

Manual and Automatic Landing 33

FPV System Operation 34

Flying Mapping Missions 35

Takeoff Checklist 35

Initiating 35

Monitoring 35

Failsafes 36
21

To ensure safe and successful flying, familiarize yourself with the safety information 

on this page. Always fly in accordance with your location regulations and these best 

operating practices.

Always fly at least 100 feet (30 m) away from 

people, vehicles, and buildings. Make the safety 

of people and property your first priority!

Always fly below 400 ft (120 m) and within your visual 

line of sight. Don’t let the Aero get too far away from 

you; make sure you can always see its orientation. 

Don’t fly in low light, rain, or other conditions that 

might impede visibility.

Always fly at least 5 miles (8 km) away from airports 

and other areas where pilots operate manned 

aircraft.

visual line 

of sight 400 ft

(120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

visual line 

of sight 400 ft

(120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Before you fly, determine the boundaries of your safe flying area. If the Aero moves 

outside the designated area or exhibits instability in flight, switch to fly-by-wire mode 

and land the plane manually. Always be ready to regain manual control of the plane 

in the event of an unsafe situation. 

The Aero will not avoid obstacles on its own, including during missions. As the 

operator, it’s your job to recognize and avoid obstructions while flying. When 

planning missions, ensure that the selected altitude is appropriate for all 

geographical features of the area, including terrain.

Location

Spinning propellers can cause serious injury. The safety 

button indicates the status of the motor to help you 

prevent hazardous contact with the Aero’s high-speed 

propeller.

• When the Aero is powered on, the safety 

 button will blink red, indicating that the motor 

 is inactive and the propeller is safe to handle.

• When you’re ready to fly, press and hold the safety 

button until it shows solid red. This indicates that 

the motor is armed and the propeller will spin if the 

throttle stick is raised. To make the propeller safe 

 to handle again, press and hold the safety 

 button until it blinks red. 

visual line 

of sight 400 ft

(120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Propeller

You can find more safety tips throughout these instructions 

where you see this yellow box.

Safety 

visual line 

of sight 400 ft

(120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

5 miles (8 km)

!
22

Aircraft Operation

Components

body

tail boom

tail

left wing

motor

nose

right wing

battery compartment

airspeed sensor

electronics compartment 

(under wings)

rudder

elevator

left aileron right aileron

If the terms above are unfamiliar to you, visit 3DR.com/Aero-M, and dive into the 

exciting world of planes with our Introduction to Flying Fixed-Wing Aircraft.

video system compartment 

(above battery compartment)

ground station radio controller Aero (top)

Aero tail
23

On the top of the horizontal stabilizer, open the blue clasp at the end of the servo rod. Insert the pegs on the clasp into the open 

space in the servo horn, and close the clasp. Slide the blue rubber ring over the clasp to secure it in place.

servo horn

Turn the plane over and insert the provided tail screw into the horizontal 

and vertical stabilizers.

Tail

Slide the horizontal stabilizer into the vertical stabilizer along the orange groove. 

Make sure not to stress any of the components on the tail.

Assembly

clasp

Tail assembly (underside)

Tail screw

Horizontal stabilizer

Vertical stabilizer Complete tail assembly
24

Wings 

Attach a wing onto each side of the spar. Do not twist the wing 

or the spar so as not to stress the foam.

Locate the two cables inside the electronics compartment marked AILE. Connect these 

cables to the two cables on the wings marked AILE. (Either of the wing cables can 

connect to either of the plane cables; the order doesn’t matter.)

Place the wings over the body of the Aero with the foam 

squares fitted into the matching space in the electronics 

compartment. Make sure not to pinch the AILE cables.

Locate the four large rubber bands. Use the bands to 

secure the wings to the body of the Aero by the four 

orange knobs on the body around the wings. 

Attach two of the bands to the two knobs on one of the 

short sides and opposite knobs on the opposing side.

Repeat on the other short side with the remaining two rubber bands, resulting in two pairs of 

opposing right triangles.

1 2

3 4
25

Propeller

Locate the rings inside the propeller package. Remove the ring with 

the second-largest internal diameter, and insert it into the back of the 

propeller hub.

Remove the nut and the washer from the motor, add the propeller with the writing on the 

propeller facing towards the nose of the plane, add the washer and the nut over the propeller, 

and tighten the nut.
26

throttle up

Increase motor speed.

throttle down

Decrease motor 

speed.

throttle fully down

Stop motor.

yaw left

yaw right

Turn left.

Turn right.

Fly the Aero manually using the RC controller.

yaw

throttle

Throttle: Move the left stick forward and backward to control the motor. 

Yaw: Move the left stick horizontally to turn left and right using the rudder.

Pitch: Move the right stick up to pitch down and down to pitch up.

Roll: Move the right stick left and right to control the bank angle.

Controls

roll

pitch

roll and pitch center

Automatically level.

roll left

roll right

Roll left.

Roll right.

pitch up

pitch down

Pitch up.

Pitch down.
27

Auto - fly a mission

Fly an autonomous mission. This is the mode that the Aero will use to create the map.

Fly by Wire - assisted manual control

Let the autopilot manage the control surfaces, and navigate based on where you want the Aero 

to fly. Fly-by-wire mode* (FBW) is the easiest way to fly and is the recommended mode for new 

operators.

*ArduPlane mode FBWA 

Return to Launch (RTL) - recall to launch point

Command the plane to circle over the launch point. The Aero will return to the position where it 

acquired GPS lock and enter into a circle pattern at an altitude of 100 meters.

Loiter - circle

Activate GPS-positioned circling; the Aero will enter into a circle pattern with a radius of 60 meters 

at the current altitude. Move the right stick to adjust the position of the circle.

Stabilize - stabilized manual control

Stabilize mode provides manual control with an added autopilot safeguard: Release the right stick 

and the Aero will automatically return to a level flying orientation. Use stabilize mode for the freedom 

of manual control with return-to-level stabilization.

Manual - full manual control

Fly with fine-tuned manual control without autopilot assistance. Manual mode gives you the most 

direct input to the control surfaces, resulting in precise in-flight adjustment. Try manual mode if 

you’re an experienced RC plane operator.

GEAR/MIX selects the set of modes.

 FLAP/GYRO selects the specific mode, either 0, 1, 

or 2.

To select a flight mode:

First, set the GEAR/MIX switch to select a set of modes. Then use the 

FLAP/GYRO switch to 0, 1, or 2 to select a specific mode. 

With GEAR/MIX set to GEAR,

set FLAP/GYRO to: 0 for Manual

 1 for Stabilize

 2 for Loiter

With GEAR/MIX set to MIX,

set FLAP/GYRO to: 0 for Auto

 1 for Fly by wire 

 2 for RTL

Modes 

RC controller (top)
28

Arming and disarming are important steps that must be completed before 

takeoff and after landing to activate and deactivate the motor, respectively.

The arming and disarming procedures ensure that you can safety start and 

stop the motor without risk of injury.

The Aero’s motor can spin when armed! Do not place your hands in the 

way of the propeller while the safety button is active (solid red).

To arm the motor, press and hold the safety button until it 

displays solid red.

To disarm, press and hold the safety button until it displays 

blinking red.

safety button

Inactive, motor disarmed

Active, motor armed

Arming & Disarming LED Indicators

Low battery, automatic landing

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing

System error, see troubleshooting guide

Loss of GPS signal, switch to fly-by-wre

Initializing, please wait

Acquiring GPS, please wait

Armed, GPS locked

Tones

Visit 3DR.com/Aero-M to listen to Pixhawk’s status tones.

GPS Lock

Auto, RTL, and loiter modes requires GPS lock. When powered, the autopilot will 

automatically search for GPS lock. The position of the Aero when the autopilot acquires 

GPS will be saved as the home position, and used as the coordinates for the launch 

point during RTL. If you plan to use auto, RTL, or loiter modes during your flight, ensure 

that the Aero is located at a suitable launch point when powered, and the autopilot 

acquires GPS lock before takeoff, indicated by a blinking green status LED.

Before arming, check the status LED. The LED will flash blue while 

the Aero acquires GPS; this can take a few minutes. Once you see 

the green LED, the autopilot has acquired GPS lock. 

Autopilot ready, GPS locked

Acquiring GPS lock, please wait.

Initializing, please wait. 

!
29

Preflight Checks

Before each flight, perform a physical component check, center of gravity check, and control checks in both manual and stabilize 

modes. If any of the components or assemblies in these checks are not secure, tighten the screws or use CA glue (super glue) to 

secure the components to the foam.

1

Examine the Aero to ensure that all components are secured in flight configuration.

tail servos wing servos

» Check that the wings, tail, and tail boom are fully assembled and securely attached.

» Check that the propeller is secured tightly to the motor.

» Check that the servo rods are secured to the servo horns with the blue clasps.

airspeed sensor

2

Check that the airspeed sensor is secured to the side of the Aero and the 

tube is free from obstructions.

3

With the battery connected and the lid secured, check that the Aero is correctly 

balanced for flight. Hold the Aero with one finger on each of the clear, plastic balancing 

points shown below. These points indicate the Aero’s center of gravity.

If the plane balances on your fingers, then the center of gravity is correct. If 

it won’t balance, adjust the position of the battery until you can balance the 

plane on two fingers as shown below.

Flying the plane without the camera will affect the center of gravity. If you 

choose to fly without the camera, make sure to re-balance the center of 

gravity.
30

Before flying, power and arm the Aero on the ground and complete these checks to verify that the control surfaces respond correctly to the control inputs. Place 

the plane on the ground, and set the mode switches to select manual mode. Move each of the sticks as shown, and check for the corresponding movement of 

the motor or control surfaces.

Left Stick Left Stick

1 

Raise the throttle slightly until the motor spins, then 

immediately set the throttle back to fully down position.

Motor spins.

Left Stick

Left Stick

2 

Pitch down

Elevator tilts down.

Left Stick

Left Stick

Pitch up

Elevator tilts up.

! Do not raise the throttle more than just enough to spin the motor while 

the plane is on the ground, and do not place your hands in the way of 

the propeller while the motor is armed.

Left Stick

Left Stick

3 

Roll left

Left aileron tilts up, right 

aileron tilts down.

Left Stick

Left Stick

Roll right

Left aileron tilts down, 

right aileron tilts up.

Left Stick

Left Stick

4 

Yaw left

Rudder tilts left.

Left Stick

Left Stick

Yaw right

Rudder tilts right.

Preflight Checks: Manual Control Check
31

Set the mode switches to stabilize, and hold the plane in front of you. Move the plane as shown, and 

check for the stabilization response from the control surfaces.

1 

Test: Tilt the plane left.

Result: Left aileron tilts down, right 

aileron tilts up.

Test: Tilt the plane right.

Result: Left aileron tilts up, right 

aileron tilts down.

2 

Test: Tilt the plane down.

Result: Elevator tilts up.

Test: Tilt the plane up.

Result: Elevator tilts down.

Preflight Checks: Stabilize Control Check
32

Auto-takeoff works by sensing the movement of the plane and launching it in that 

direction. Set the Aero to autonomous mode when you’re ready to launch.

Find a launching area with at least 100 feet of clear space in front of you. Face into 

the wind, and hold the body of the Aero in one hand under the center of gravity. Be 

careful not to place your hand in the way of the propeller!

Hold the Aero above your head, run, and throw the plane at an upwards angle. The 

Aero will sense the throw, power the motor, and climb to the altitude specified by 

the takeoff waypoint before starting the survey mission.

Automatic takeoff requires you to configure the takeoff angle during mission planning. See page 18.

!

DO NOT WIND UP YOUR THROW; if the Aero senses any backwards 

momentum it will attempt to launch in that direction. Use only forward 

momentum to throw to Aero!

Automatic Takeoff Manual Takeoff

If you’re new to planes, we recommend having a friend help you launch the 

Aero. Have your friend throw the Aero while you control the controller.

We recommend setting the Aero to fly-by-wire mode for takeoff. Find a 

launching area with at least 100 feet of clear space in front of you. Face 

into the wind, and hold the Aero at the center of gravity. Raise the throttle 

to center position to start the motor. Be careful not to place your hand in 

the way of the propeller!

Hold the Aero above your head, run, and throw the plane at an upwards 

angle.

Once launched, the Aero will require immediate adjustment with the 

controller to navigate away from the ground and up to the desired altitude. 

Pitch up (right stick down) and add any other necessary controls based on 

wind, speed, and terrain.
33

Automatic Landing

When you’re ready to end your flight, follow these steps to land:

» Fly a circle pattern above your landing area. 

» Come in on a final approach, flying into the wind at 

 an altitude of 20 to 40 meters. 

» When the plane reaches an altitude of 10 meters, set the throttle fully down to turn 

off the motor and glide down 

 on a 15 to 20 degree down-pitch angle. 

» When the plane is one meter above the ground, pitch up (flare) to land the Aero on 

the body of the plane instead of the nose.

Left Stick

Left Stick

Left Stick

Left Stick

throttle fully down

pitch up

20-40 m

10 m

1 m

wind direction

Left Stick

pitch slightly down

After stopping the motor at an altitude of 10 m, keep your thumb on the throttle 

stick in fully down position to ensure 

that the motor does not accidentally spin during landing.

Manual Landing

!

To land automatically at the end of the mission, the Aero requires the 

mission to be configured with a specific pattern of landing waypoints 

that gradually decreases the altitude so that the Aero can land safely. 

For instructions on configuring automatic landing, see page 18.
34

FPV System Operation

If you selected to receive an optional FPV/OSD system, the components are pre-installed 

into the Aero to transmit on-board video.

AV receiver

Antenna

Batteries (2)

Receiver cables

Parts 2 Wire and power receiver

Attach an antenna to the receiver. Connect the AV output cable to either receiver AV OUT 

port. Connect the RC power cable to the receiver DC IN port, and attach a battery to the red 

connector.

1 Charge battery

Charge both batteries before your first flight. Set the charger to LiPo and 1A. Connect the 

white battery connector to the 3S port, and connect the XT60-JST charger adapter to the 

red battery connector and yellow 

charger connector.

3S port

Battery connector

Transmitter

Camera

Remove lens cap!

3 Prepare on-board components

Connect a fully charged battery to the transmitter inside the compartment in the nose of the 

plane. Remove the lens cap from the camera.

LiPo 1A

4 Viewing video

When using a 3DR Black Pearl Monitor to view your video, set the mode to DIV (M button 

changes modes), the channel to 8 (+ and - buttons), and the band to E (press the power 

button to access the menu).

For more information about configuring the FPV/OSD system, visit 3DR.com/Aero-M.
35

Flying Mapping Missions

Takeoff Checklist

Before flying the mission, check the following:

» Camera is on with mission script ready and is secured into the 

mount with the mini-USB cable connected and the cap removed. 

» Aero is powered and connected to the ground station with all pre-flight 

checks passed.

» The survey mission has been adjusted to account for present 

environmental conditions and saved to the Aero.

Initiating 

For automatic takeoff, set the Aero to auto mode and launch according to the 

instructions in the Automatic Takeoff section of these instructions (page 33).

For manual takeoff, set the Aero to auto mode after takeoff to initiate the mission 

in flight.

Monitoring

Mission Planner Flight Data: Attitude

1 Heading direction

2 Bank angle

3 Altitude (black) and rate of climb (blue bar)

4 Ground speed

Status

4 Distance to current waypoint > 

 current waypoint number

5 GPS status

6 Battery status*

1 Ground station signal

2 GPS time

3 Currently 

 enabled mode

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

5

6

Monitor the Aero closely during the mission using your line of sight and the 

Mission Planner Flight Data screen.

Actions

1 Change waypoints or restart a mission

2 Change modes

3 Change altitude

Flight Map

1 Current heading

2 Direct path to current waypoint

3 GPS-reported direction of travel

4 Actual flight path

5 Latitude, longitude

6 Altitude

1

2

3

1

2

3

4

5

6 Full battery: 16.8 V

Low battery failsafe: 13.8 V

 End your flight at 14 V! !

*Failsafe behavior enabled
36

Failsafes

al line 

ght 400 ft

(120 m)

00 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Low Battery Failsafe

Environmental conditions can affect power consumption. Use the Mission Planner Flight Data 

display to monitor the voltage of the battery during flight.

If the battery reaches 13.8 V, the Aero will return automatically to circle above the launch point, 

indicated by a blinking yellow status LED and a quick repeating tone.

The Aero is programmed with a set of failsafe behaviors to prevent a crash in the event of a loss 

of one of the data or communication channels required for autonomous flight. Although certain 

failsafe have assigned LED indicators and tones, it is unlikely that you will be able to see these at a 

distance. Monitor the Flight Data screen for failsafe indications. If a failsafe is triggered, the assigned 

behavior will activate. To override the failsafe behavior (RTL in most cases), use the controller to 

regain manual control. 

Regaining Manual Control

To regain manual control during the mission, switch to fly-by-wire mode using the controller. If 

you’re a confident operator, switch to stabilize mode. If you observe instability in the Aero’s flight 

behavior or it the aircraft moves outside your designated safe flying area, switch to RTL. Turning off 

the controller will automatically trigger an RTL and can be used in an emergency situation as a hard 

recall command.

RC Controller Signal Failsafe

Physical obstructions and interference from nearby wireless signals can affect the Aero’s connection with the RC controller. 

If the Aero loses contact with the controller, it will return to the launch point automatically and 

enter into a circle pattern above the launch point, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED.

If the controller failsafe is triggered, wait for the Aero to return to the launch point, then regain 

manual control and either land or restart the mission.
37

3 Process

On-Site Quality Check 38

Spot Check 38

Download Images 38

Download Log File 39

Pix4D Rapid Check 40

Full Processing 40
38

On-Site Quality Check 

Before leaving the survey site, check the images using Pix4D to ensure sufficient quality for 

mapping by downloading the images from the SD card, downloading the log file from the 

Aero, and completing Rapid Check Initial Processing in Pix4D.

If you observe poor image quality or the quality report returns errors, see the Image Quality 

Troubleshooting section on page 45 and repeat the mission. 

playback button

SD card file structure: Download images

Spot Check (Optional)

The quickest way to see the images after a flight is to unlock the SD card and restart the 

camera. The camera will load the default Canon programming and you can select the 

playback button to review the images.

Download Images

Unlock the SD card and load into your ground station. Select the DCIM folder and locate 

the folder for your flight. Copy the files into a project folder on the ground station and 

delete them from the SD card.
39

Pix4D uses the GPS data from the Aero’s log file to georeference the images. To download the Aero’s 

dataflash log, power the Aero and connect to Mission Planner. The download process will be faster if 

you connect the micro-USB cable directly to Pixhawk’s micro-USB port instead of connecting using 

the ground station radio. (When connecting directly to the Aero, set the rate to 115200.)

On the Flight Plan screen, select the DataFlash Logs tab under the heads-up 

display, and select Download DataFlash Log over Mavlink.

The Log window shows the Aero’s recent flights. Select the flight for your 

mission, and select Download These Logs. This will save the log file to your 

computer in the location displayed under the list of flights.

To retrieve the log file, access your computer’s file structure under Program Files/Mission Planner/logs/

PLANE, and select the .log file for the date of your flight.

Mission Planner: Flight Data heads-up display

Mission Planner: Download Logs Program Files: Retrieve log file

Download Log File
40

1

Open Pix4D Mapper, and create a new project.

2

Select Aerial Nadir as the project 

type.

After creating the project, select the Local Processing screen (Process menu). Check the 

option for Initial Processing and Rapid Check. Uncheck all other local processing options, and 

select Start.

Pix4Dmapper Rapid Check: Create Project

3

After adding the images, select From File to add the geolocation data from the Aero’s log file. In the 

pop-up window, select 3D Robotics Flight Log as the file format, and upload the dataflash log file 

downloaded from Mission Planner.

Pix4Dmapper Rapid Check: Initial Processing

Pix4D will generate a Quality Report that will indicate if the images are of sufficient quality to 

create a map. 

To complete full processing for the map, visit support.pix4d.com for instructions.

Full Processing
41

Appendix

Aerial Imaging Concepts 42

3DR EAI 43

Image Quality Troubleshooting 45

Operational Troubleshooting 46
42

Aerial Imaging Concepts

Understanding key concepts in aerial images can help you understand the mission planning process and create better maps.

Distance-Based Imaging

By default, the camera captures only the images required to create the map. The Pixhawk monitors the distance traveled by the aircraft and sends 

a command to the camera to capture an image at the distance interval specified by the camera trigger distance parameter (CAM_TRIGG_DIST). This 

parameter is set by the Mission Planner Survey tool during survey configuration by calculating the minimum distance between images based on the 

parameters specified for the survey (altitude, overlap, sidelap). This distance-based imaging allows for more precise data collection, resulting in less 

images and data storage cost. Once configured, the Survey tool creates an event at the start of the mission script (after takeoff) to set the camera 

trigger distance to the specified interval and an event at the end of the mission (before landing) to reset the camera trigger distance to 0.

Time-Based Imaging

The camera is also equipped to capture images at a consistent time interval instead of using distance. This function can be useful if you want to 

capture images over an area without planning a mission. This time-based imaging results in more images per area, and therefore more processing 

time and storage cost. See the Trigger Type options on page xx to enable time-based imaging.

Overlap and Sidelap

To capture images for the map, the aircraft flies a lawnmower-like pattern in strips across the survey site. The front-to-back overlap between 

sequential images is called overlap; the side overlaps of adjacent pictures in different strips is called sidelap. The overlap and sidelap parameters 

in the Survey tool (see Advanced Options page xx) determine the distance between images and the number of images to be captured based on 

the projected ground area that each image will cover, called a footprint. Increasing overlap and sidelap improves the accuracy of the map while 

increasing flight time and processing time.

In the Survey tool, Distance between Images shows the specified 

camera trigger distance that will be assigned to the mission. 

You can also see the projected image footprint size and the 

total number of images to be captured.

Default overlap: 50%

Default sidelap: 60%
43

3DR EAI

3DR EAI is based on KAP UAV Exposure Control Script v3.1: a great open-source project for kite and 

UAV aerial photography. 

Start and Stop Script

Ensure the camera is set to P (program) mode before powering the camera. Upon startup, 3DR EAI 

starts automatically and listens for commands from the autopilot, indicated by waiting for USB signal. 

To stop (and re-start) the script, press the shutter button. The script will display INTERRUPTED when 

stopped.

CHDK Menu

The CHDK menu contains all the standard options provided with CHDK. To access the CHDK menu, 

stop the script and select the MENU button.

Script Menu

The script menu allows you to change the parameters associated with the script itself, including 

changing the trigger mode and adjusting exposure. To open the script menu, stop the script and 

select the FUNC. SET button. These parameters are configured for the S100 and do not require 

adjustment as part of standard operation. 

Trigger Type

This parameter allows you to control how the camera captures images. Trigger type defaults to USB

for distance-based imaging during mapping missions. For time-based imaging, select Interval and 

specify the length in the Shot Interval parameter.

Trigger Type default: USB (mapping)

Variable intervalometer: Interval (default to 2 seconds, specified by Shot Interval)

Memory Reset

If the battery is left out of the camera for too long, the camera will reset its memory. To re-configure 

the camera in this case, visit 3DR.com/Aero-M for instructions.

Online Resources and Information

Visit 3DR.com/Aero-M for links to updates, more information about KAP UAV, and full CHDK 

instructions.

Script start: waiting on USB signal

Script stopped: INTERRUPTED FINISHED

Script menu

CHDK menu

Script menu: Trigger Type
44

Image Quality Troubleshooting

If you observe poor image quality during the spot check or if you receive error 

messages during processing, use the settings below to troubleshoot the image quality.

Blurry Images

To correct motion blur, adjust the shutter speed using the Target Tv parameter in the script menu.

Target Tv (shutter speed) default: 1/1250

To correct moderate motion blur: Set to 1/1600.

To correct severe motion blur: Set to 1/2000.

Overexposure

If the images are overexposed but do not show any motion blur, it can be due to flying in extremely 

bright conditions. To correct this, set the Allow use of ND filter parameter to YES in the script menu.

Allow use of ND filter default: No

To correct overexposure: Set to Yes.

Processing Errors

If you receive errors from Pix4Dmapper regarding the images, dataset, or matching points, increase 

the overlap and sidelap during survey configuration to improve the quality of the image set.

Overlap default: 50%

Sidelap default: 60%

To improve processing: Set overlap to 60% and sidelap to 70%.

Example image: motion blur

Example image: overexposure Script menu: ND Filter

Script menu: Target Tv

Mission Planner Survey tool Advanced Grid Options: Overlap and Sidelap
45

Operational Troubleshooting

No Images Captured

1 If the camera did not capture any images during the mission, first perform a 

 physical inspection on the Aero.

Is the mini-USB cable connected to the camera’s USB port?

Are the AUX OUT 6 pins connected on Pixhawk?

 AUX OUT 6: black (-), red (+), white (s) 

Is the camera battery charged? Unlock the SD card to view the Canon’s 

 battery level indicator.

2 Take a distance-triggered test image on the ground by manually setting 

 the camera trigger distance parameter to 1 m.

Power the aircraft and connect to Mission Planner. Select Config/Tuning and 

Full Parameter List. Change the CAM_TRIGG_DIST parameter to 1, and select 

Write Params. Now carry the Aero for a few meters to see if the autopilot 

triggers the camera.

Camera with SD card unlocked, running Canon software

Pixhawk (side)

Camera (side)

Mission Planner Full Parameter List: Set CAM_TRIGG_DIST to 1.