Sept 19, 2015

U.S. Department of Transportation

Docket Management System

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE

Washington, DC 20590

Re: Petition of FourProps for an Exemption Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

Director: Flight Standards Service:

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 ("Reform Act") and 

14 C.F.R. Part 11, FourProps hereby applies for an exemption from the Federal Aviation 

Regulations ("FARs") identified below to allow commercial operation of small unmanned aerial 

vehicles (i.e., "small unmanned aircraft" or "UAS") for the purpose of conducting aerial real 

estate photography and inspection for residential, commercial and industrial properties. 

This petition for exemption is made based on information outlined in this Petition for Exemption, 

as well as the accompanying FourProps documents;

1. PIC Flight Operations Manual and;

2. Operations Manuals 

(collectively 2 and 3 are referred to as "FOURPROPS' Documents & Manuals")

3. User Guide and;

4. Flight Manual1 

(collectively 3 and 4 are referred to as "Manufacturer's Manuals").

FourProps submits these supporting materials as confidential documents pursuant to 14C.F.R. § 

11.35(b), as the materials contain confidential commercial and/or proprietary information that

FourProps has not and will not share with other requesting parties. Additionally, these documents 

contain operating conditions and procedures that are not generally available to the public and are 

protected from release under the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552 et. seq.

 

1

. The term "Manufacturer's Manual" also includes all relevant manufacturer publications, including, but not limited 

to: operations and flight manuals, user guides, component maintenance manuals, pilot training manuals, service 

information letters and, safety/service bulletins.
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 2

For your convenience, this Petition is organized as follows:

I. Description of Petitioner

II. Description of Proposed Operations

A. Aerial Real Estate Videography, Photography and Inspections

III. Relevant Statutory Authority

IV. FourProps’ Proposed UAS Operations Meet the Requirements of Section 

333 of the Reform Act

A. Approval is Warranted Based on the UAS's Size, Weight, Speed, and Operational 

Capability

B. Approval is Warranted Based on the Operational Restrictions Set Forth in the 

Operations Manuals

V. Regulations From Which Exemption is ReqFourPropssted

A. 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H – Airworthiness Certificates and 14 C.F.R. § 

91.203(a)(1)

B. 14 C.F.R. Part 27 Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Rotorcraft

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

Requirements

D. 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2); 91.417(a) and (b): 

Maintenance Inspections

E. 14 C.F.R. Part 61, 14 C.F.R. § 61.3, 14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and 

Limitations

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

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

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

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

I. 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a): Flight Instruction

J. 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(c): Minimum Safe Altitudes

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

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

V1. Drug and Alcohol Program

VII. Public Interest

VIII. Privacy

IX. Federal Register Summary

X. Conclusion
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 3

I. DESCRIPTION OF PETITIONER

FourProps is an aerial photo/videography service provider, based in Norton, Massachusetts. 

Principal Tom Shipley has been flying UAV’s for more than two years, flying two to three times 

per week. Tom Shipley has also built from the ground up a UAS platform for a better 

understanding of how the UAS operates. FourProps’ staff includes Tom Shipley as Principal & 

Chief Pilot, a photographer and field assistant (set up, spotter, safety focal). 

FourProps’ services include offering aerial video and photo services to property and business 

owners for advertising and promotional purposes, commercial art, and stock footage

FourProps’staff are well trained and experienced in providing support as visual observers 

(“VO”) for the pilot in command (“PIC”) in addition to any other needed on site assistance.

All of the equipment owned by FourProps is of the highest quality gear and has been able to 

provide these services safely and without any claims or incident. FourProps’ goal is to advise the 

perspective client that FourProps is following all the applicable state and federal rules to ensure 

the safety of the public while providing the client with a competitive and cost effective product.

FourProps seeks an exemption to allow for photography, videography and services for the 

services for the FourProps and other related media products.

The contact information for Petitioner is as follows:

Tom Shipley

FourProps

85 Elm St

Norton, MA, 02766

sendtotes@gmail.com

(508)944.3516

II. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED OPERATION

FourProps seeks an exemption pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act to operate the Phantom 

2, H4-3D Gimbal and IOSD Mini (referred to FP-UAS) (all under 55lbs) for the proposed 

operations discussed herein below. All UAS operations will occur under tightly controlled

conditions on private property where FourProps has received verifiable permission to operate 

from the landowner, controller or authorized representative. The proposed UAS operations will 

be conducted in accordance with the conditions and limitations of this Petition for Exemption 

and FourProps’ Operations Manuals. As detailed in FourProps’ Operations Manuals, all UAS 

operations will be limited to daytime VFR conditions, within visual line-of-sight ("VLOS") of 

the operator, in uncontrolled airspace, and will occur at least 5 mm away from an airport 

reference point. Moreover, FourProps’ Operations Manuals incorporate redundant safeguards to 

assure the aircraft does not travel outside the controlled area of UAS operations, including GPS 

"geo-fencing" technologies.

A. Real Estate Aerial Photography, Videography and Inspection Service
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FourProps seeks to use small FP-UAS s for the purpose of conducting aerial real estate, 

commercial art, stock video footage and location scouting videography. FourProps seeks to use 

small FP-UAS s for the purpose of conducting aerial photogrammetry for safety monitoring of 

controlled access industrial and construction sites, and infrastructures. FourProps has 

purposefully tailored its operations to meet the requirements established by the FAA in prior 

grants of exemption authorizing commercial use of UAS in the motion picture and television 

filmmaking industry, including:

 Trudeau, Realtor® (Exemption No. 11138)

 Alon Sicherman (Exemption No. 11728)

 Sokoler Medly (Exemption No. 11341)

All UAS real estate photography and videography operations will occur on private property in a 

controlled area away from spectators and persons not involved in the filmmaking process. In 

addition, the filming will be conducted between dawn and dusk to ensure maximum safety for 

the public and those involved in the manipulation and operation of the UAS; VFR conditions, at 

altitudes below 400' above ground level (“AGL”). 

As set forth below, FourProps’ operations provide an equivalent level of safety which is superior 

to performing the same work using conventional fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters.

Small UAS real estate video production is also safer than traditional manned aircraft 

performing the same function. Videographer-inspectors also are required to climb roof tops, 

trees, or otherwise perform elevated work, which exposes them to the risk of dangerous falls, 

electrocution or other work related injuries. In addition, depending on the nature of the video 

needed and inspection, proximity to equipment, and other mechanical hazards associated with 

industrial sites and construction facilities often involves a risk of exposure to hazardous

conditions. The use of UASs mitigates these hazards and is ultimately a much safer and cost 

efficient method of performing these and most other types of inspections.

Moreover, conventional operations using rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft in low level 

operations present risks associated with vehicles weighing tens of thousands of pounds 

(including payload) and carrying large amounts of fuel which inherently presents significant fire 

hazards as well as exposure to other chemical contaminates. It is important to note the use of 

small UAS in this area will not only be safer and more cost effective to the perspective user or 

purchaser of the service, but the quality and expanse of acquired information will be far more 

robust given the low cost associated with its acquisition and other potential consumers an 

inexpensive product.

UAS real estate video production is more reliable, and allows for the collection, dissemination, 

and storage of visual and other sensory data with greater precision and duration at a very low 

cost. Small UASs will also be capable of accessing and inspecting areas that would otherwise be 

inaccessible or highly dangerous using conventional aircraft or other inspection methods.

III. RELEVANT STATUTORY AUTHORITY
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 5

This Petition for Exemption is submitted pursuant to Section 333(a) through (c) of the

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 ("Reform Act"). Congress has directed the FAA

"to safely accelerate the integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace 

system." Pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act, the FAA Administrator is to permit 

unmanned aircraft systems to operate in the National Airspace Systems ("NAS") where it is safe 

to do so based on the following considerations:

● The UAS's size, weight, speed and operational capability;

● Operation of the UAS in close proximity to airports and populated areas; and

● Operation of the UAS within the visual line of sight of the operator.

Additionally, the FAA Administrator has general authority to grant exemptions from the agency's 

safety regulations and minimum standards when the Administrator decides a reqFourPropssted 

exemption is in the public interest. See 49 U.S.C. § 106(f) (defining the authority of the

Administrator); 49 U.S.C. § 44701(f) (permitting exemptions from §§ 44701(a), (b) and

§§ 44702 – 44716, et seq.). A party reqFourPropssting an exemption must explain the reasons 

why the exemption: (1) would benefit the public as a whole, and (2) would not adversely affect 

safety (or how it would provide a level of safety at least equal to the existing rules). See 14 

C.F.R. § 11.81 (petitions for exemption).

IV. FOURPROPS’ PROPOSED FP-UAS OPERATIONS MEET THE 

REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 333 OF THE REFORM ACT

The small FP-UAS operations proposed by FourProps as noted above in this Petition for 

Exemption qualify for expedited approval pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act as each of 

the statutory criteria and relevant factors are satisfied.

A. Approval is Warranted Based on the UAS's Size, Weight, Speed, and

Operational Capability

A Grant of Exemption is appropriate for operations conducted using the UAS due to their size 

weight, speed, and operational capability.

 The UAS utilized by FourProps have been approved for use in prior Section 333 

Grants of Exemption from the FAA.2

 The UAS weigh less than 55 pounds, including payload

 The UASs will not be flown at a ground speed in excess of 50 knots.

 Altitude information will be generated by equipment onboard the UAS as 

specified using GPS triangulation, digitally encoded barometric altimeter, radio 

 

2See e.g., Grant of Exemption to Trudeau, Realtor® (Exemption No. 11138); Grant of Exemption to Alon 

Sicherman (Exemption No. 11728); Grant of Exemption to Sokoler Medly (Exemption No. 11341).
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 6

altimeter, or any combination thereof. This information will be transmitted to the pilot 

via telemetric data feed.

 The FP-UASs will have system redundancies and independent functionality to

ensure the overall safety and predictability of the system. If connection to the remote 

control or ground control station is lost, failsafe systems will permit the UASs to 

return to a predetermined location and safely land without injury or damage.

 The radio frequencies used for operations and control of the FP-UAS comply with 

the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") and other appropriate government 

oversight agency requirements. The operating frequencies for the FP-UAS is 2.4 GHz 

frequencies bands.

If the same operations were conducted using a helicopter, the aircraft's take-off weight 

would likely exceed 6,000 pounds depending on payload. The difference in weight between the

FP-UAS and a helicopter significantly reduces the potential harm to the participating and nonparticipating individuals and/or surrounding property in the event of an unintended accident or 

incident. In addition, the risk to the onboard pilot and camera operator is eliminated.

B. Approval is Warranted Based on the Operational Restrictions Set Forth in

FourProps’ Operations Manuals
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Sept 19, 2015

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FourProps’ Operations Manuals and the Manufacturer's Manual for the selected FP-UAS s will 

contain all the procedures and limitations necessary to safely and successfully perform the 

operations specified in this Petition for Exemption. To assist the FAA in making a safety 

assessment of FourProps’ proposed operations, below is a summary of operational limitations 

and conditions that FourProps will adhere to, and which will ensure an equivalent or higher level 

of safety to operations conducted under current regulatory guidelines:

1. The FP-UASs weighs less than 55 pounds, with payload.

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

verifiable permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative.

Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained 

for each scheduled flight prior to operation.

3. All UASs operated under the Grant of Exemption will be identified by serial number, 

registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification (N-Number) 

markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings will be as large as 

practicable.

4. Minimum crew for each flight operation will consist of a pilot, who will be Pilot-in 

Command ("PIC") of the FP-UAS, and one or more Visual Observers ("Observer") as 

necessary to safely conduct the mission.

5. PICs shall possess at least a Sport or Private Pilot's Certificate and shall possess at 

least a current Class III Medical Certificate and/or a valid and current driver’s license

within the United States. The PIC will also meet the flight review requirements 

specified in 14 C.F.R 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot 

certificate. 

6. The FP-UASs shall be operated within VLOS of the PIC and Observer at all times. 

The PIC must use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, 

as specified on the PIC's FAA- Class II medical certificate and/or a valid and current 

driver’s license within the United States.

7. The PIC and Observer designated for any operation will be able to communicate 

verbally at all times.

8. Electronic messaging or texting will not be permitted during flight operations.

9. The additional requirements identified in the Grant of Exemption shall be added to 

the FourProps’ Operations Manuals. 
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Sept 19, 2015

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The Operations Manuals will be maintained and made available to the Administrator 

upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in the 

Grant of Exemption and FourProps’ Operations Manuals, the conditions and 

limitations in the Grant of Exemption shall take precedence and must be followed. 

Otherwise, FourProps shall follow the procedures outlined in their Operations 

Manuals.

10. FourProps may update or revise its Operations Manuals. Revisions will be tracked 

and a revised copy of the Manual will be provided to the Administrator upon request. 

FourProps will also present an updated and revised Operations Manuals if it petitions 

for extension or amendment to its Grant of Exemption. If an update or revision would 

affect the basis upon which the FAA grants the exemption, FourProps will seek an 

amendment to its Grant of Exemption. FourProps will contact the FAA’s UAS 

Integration Office (AFS-80) if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the 

operating documents.

11. FourProps Operations Manuals and its Grant of Exemption will be available to the 

PIC at the ground control station anytime the FP-UAS is operating.

12. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a FP-UAS flight unless (considering wind and 

forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly to the first intended point of 

landing, and assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 10 minutes.

13. Maximum total flight time for each operational flight using the FP-UAS will be 

limited to 40 minutes or the amount of time the UAS can be flown and still maintain a 

reserve battery power of no less than 25%, whichever occurs first.

14. Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL and will never 

enter navigable controlled airspace without timely prior written authorization and 

approval from the FAA. In the event the structure being inspected exceeds 400 feet 

AGL, the UAS will not be operated more than 100 feet above the highest point on the 

structure, and no more than 50 feet horizontally from the structure.

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

persons. (persons other than the PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons), 

vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating 

persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator 

must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a 

situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are 

within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or;
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Sept 19, 2015

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b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the 

owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission 

and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to 

those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and;

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons do not 

present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

16. The FP-UAS may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet 

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

17. The FP-UAS may not operate within 5 nm of an airport reference point as denoted on 

a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that 

airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with

a NOTAM as required by the FourProps COA. The letter of agreement with the 

airport management will be made available to the Administrator upon request.

18. Prior to each flight the PIC shall inspect the FP-UASs to confirm that it is in a 

condition safe for flight. The pre-flight inspection will account for all discrepancies, 

e.g. inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant 

sections of the operating documents as well as equipment updates. The PIC shall not 

operate any FP-UASs if the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe 

operation of the FP-UAS until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the

FP-UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The ground control station shall 

be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alternations must be 

properly documented in the UAS’s records as required by FourProps’ Operations 

Manuals.

19. FourProps will timely carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping 

requirements in accordance with the Operations Manuals. Maintenance, inspection, 

and alterations will be fully noted in the FP-UAS records, including total time in 

service, description of work accomplished, date completed and the signature of the 

authorized person returning the FP-UAS to service.

20. Any FP-UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS 

operation or flight characteristics (e.g., replacement of a flight critical component) 

must timely undergo a functional test flight in accordance with FourProps’ Operations 

Manuals. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the 

UAS aircraft records of the flight. The requirements and procedures for a functional 

test flight and FP-UAS record entry shall be included in the FourProps’ Operations 

Manuals.
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21. The FP-UAS will be operated and maintained according to the Manufacturer's 

Manuals and any required manufacturer Safety/Service Bulletins and product updates.

22. Prior to the operation, a Mission Packet will be created in accordance with the 

requirements on FourProps’ Operations Manuals.

23. FourProps will obtain an Air Traffic Organization ("ATO") issued Certificate of 

Waiver or Authorization, otherwise known as a COA, prior to conducting any 

operations under this Grant of Exemption. A NOTAM will be issued as required by 

the COA. All operations will be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements 

in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential 

transponder requirements.

24. All required permissions and permits will be obtained from territorial, state, county or 

city jurisdictions, including local law enforcement, fire or other appropriate 

governmental agencies.

25. If the FP-UAS loses communication with the PIC, it will have the capability to safely

return to a pre-determined location within the operational area and land safely.

26. Contingency plans will be in place to safely terminate flight if there is a loss of 

communication between the PIC and the Observer.

27. The FP-UAS will have the capability to safely abort flight in the case of unpredicted 

obstacles or emergencies.

28. PICs and Observers will have at least a current Class III Medical Certificate or a valid

and current state driver’s license issued within the United States. 

29. Prior to conducting operations for filming, the PIC will have accumulated and logged, 

in a manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51(b), a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 

25 hours total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot and at least 10 hours logged as a UAS 

pilot with a similar FP-UAS type platform. This requirement can be achieved by 

flights conducted and logged as a hobbyist.

30. Prior to conducting operations for filming, the PIC will have accumulated and logged, 

in a manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51(b), a minimum of hours pursuant to 54 

CFR § 61.51(b) as UAS pilot operating the make and model of FP-UAS to be utilized 

for operations under the exemption and three take-offs and three landing in the 

preceding 90 days.
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 11

31. Operations shall occur during daytime VFR Meteorological Conditions; flights under 

special visual flight rules ("SVFR") shall not be conducted.

32. The FP-UAS shall remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned 

operations and activities at all times (including, but not limited to, ultralight vehicles, 

parachute activities, parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.).

33. FP-UAS Operations under Instrument Flight Rules, at night, or beyond VLOS are 

prohibited.

34. The FP-UAS will not be operated from an elevated platform or moving 

device/vehicle.

35. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and 

control of the FP-UAS will comply with the Federal Communications Commission 

(FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

V. REGULATIONS FROM WHICH EXEMPTION IS REQFOURPROPSSTED

The Federal Aviation Act expressly grants the FAA the authority to issFourProps exemptions. 

This statutory authority, by its terms, includes exempting civil aircraft, as the term is defined 

under § 40101 of the Act, including UASs, from its safety regulations and minimum standards 

when the Administrator decides a reqFourPropssted exemption is in the public interest.3

FourProps seeks an exemption from several interrelated provisions of Title 14 of the Code of 

Federal Regulations ("14 C.F.R") Parts 21, 45, 61 and 91 for purposes of conducting the 

reqFourPropssted operations using FP-UAS platforms noted above. Listed below are: (1) the 

specific sections of 14 C.F.R for which exemption is sought, and (2) the operating procedures 

and safeguards that Petitioner has established which will ensure a level of safety better than or 

equal to the rules from which exemption is sought.4

 

3

49 U.S.C. § 44701(f) (authorizing the grant of exemptions from requirements of regulations prescribed pursuant to 

Sections 44701(a) and (b) and Sections 44702 - 44716).

4 14 C.F.R § 11.81(e), which requires a petition for exemption to include: The reasons why granting the exemption 

would not adversely affect safety, or how the exemption would provide a level of safety at least equal to that 

provided by the rule from which you seek exemption.
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UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

A. 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H – Airworthiness Certificates and 14 C.F.R. 

§91.203(a)(1)

The FAA has stated that no exemption is needed from this section if a finding is made 

under the Reform Act that the UAS selected provides an equivalent level of safety when 

compared to aircraft normally used for the same application. These criteria are met and in point 

of fact exceeded, and therefore no exemption is needed. 5 If, however, the FAA determines that 

there are some characteristics of the chosen UAS that fail to meet the requirements of the Reform 

Act, an exemption is requested.

Equivalent Level of Safety

FourProps’ use of the FP-UASs are safe when taking into account their size, weight, 

speed, and operational capability. As set forth in the description of proposed operations in 

Section IV(A), the FP-UASs weigh less than 55 pounds, including payload and will not be flown 

at a ground speed in excess of 50 knots. The FP-UASs are also equipped with safety features 

which will allow Petitioner to operate the FP-UAS safely after experiencing certain in-flight 

contingencies or failures as noted below.

6 7

Additionally, the FP-UASs carry neither pilots nor passengers, carry no explosive materials or 

flammable liquid fuels, or other elements identified by Homeland Security as being prohibitive 

and operate exclusively within the parameters stated in FourProps’ Operations Manuals.

 

5See Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (FAA-2014-0352 at pgs. 13-14, 22).

6See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11184 to Low Country RC, Corp. (FAA-2014-0803 at pg. 3): "The [DJI S1000] 

has the capability to operate safely after experiencing certain in-flight contingencies or failures and uses an autopilot system to maintain UAS stability and control. The UAS is also able to respond to a loss of global positioning

system (GPS) or a lost-link event with a pre-coordinated, predictable, automated flight maneuver, and manual flight 

control functionality as a backup. These safety features provide an equivalent level of safety compared to a manned 

aircraft performing a similar operation."

7See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11184 to VDOS Global, LLC. (FAA-2014-0382 at pgs. 4-5): 

"The FM-UAS can be operated entirely by a touch-screen, map-based interface. This means the operator only needs 

to command the system where to go, and the system does all the flying for the operator. The AL-UAS can be 

operated in both semi and fully autonomous flight modes, with the operator simply clicking on a map to create a preplanned flight path for a flight. In addition, the operator can create no fly zones or maximum flight ranges and 

altitudes so the system cannot enter areas deemed unsafe or unnecessary to fly over. 

The petitioner states further that the UAS has built-in intelligent fault handling which allows the AL-UAS to detect a 

system fault while in the air and automatically fly back to its takeoff location and land. Faults that can be detected 

include: loss of communication; exceeding pre-set wind thresholds; and low battery levels. All flight operations are 

global positioning system (GPS) controlled, making the system easy to navigate. At any point if the operator is not 

explicitly commanding the system to move, the system automatically holds its GPS position. The flight control 

system employs not only GPS positioning but a variety of sensors including sonar, barometric pressure, temperature, 

wind speed and others to ensure stability so long as wind thresholds are not exceeded. Also a flight termination link 

– to prevent a 'fly away' or other potentially dangerous situation – is available to the operator."
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Operations conducted under this exemption will be closely controlled and monitored by 

the PIC operator and will be conducted in compliance with local public safety requirements, to 

provide security for the area of operation. FourProps will also provide the FAA with advance 

notice of all operations via NOTAMs as required by the applicable COA. In all cases, operation 

of the FP-UAS under the proposed conditions will be at least as safe as, or safer than, 

conventional rotorcraft operating with an airworthiness certificate. 

Lastly, the FP-UASs do not need a means to communicate with other aircraft or ATC, 

because those capabilities will be solely possessed by the PIC and Observer, who are not 

onboard the FP-UAS.

8

In addition, no sense-and-avoid technology is necessary for the FP-UASs 

because they will be operated at all times in VFR conditions and within VLOS of the PIC and 

Operator.

9

B. 14 C.F.R. Part 27 Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Rotorcraft

Title 14 C.F.R. Part 27 sets forth the procedural requirements for airworthiness 

certification of normal category rotorcraft. To the extent that FourProps’small FP-UASs would 

otherwise require certification under Part 27, Petitioner seeks an exemption from Part 27's 

airworthiness standards for the same reasons identified in the request for exemption from 14 

C.F.R. R. Part 21, Subpart H, supra.

 

8See Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (FAA-2014-0352 at pg. 13).

9

. Id
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C. 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.9(c), 45.23(b) and 45.27(a): Aircraft Marking and Identification 

Requirements

FourProps seeks an exemption from the aircraft marking and identification requirements 

contained in 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.9(c), 45.23(b) and 45.27(a).

● 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(c), Civil Aircraft Flight Manual, Marking and Placard 

requirements, provides that:

No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft unless that aircraft 

is identified in accordance with Part 45 of this chapter.

● 14 C.F.R. § 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 C.F.R. § 45.27(a), Rotorcraft, states:

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.

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 C.F.R Part 45, Subpart C if the markings are as large as practicable."10

Equivalent Level of Safety

All FP-UASs flown by FourProps will bear N-number markings that are as large as practicable in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Subpart C.11

 

10 FAA Docket No. FAA-2014-0352.

11 See, e.g., FAA Docket No. FAA-2014-0352, at 14.
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 15

D. 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2); 91.417(a) and (b): 

Maintenance Inspections

FourProps seeks an exemption from the maintenance inspection requirements contained 

in 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(2); 91.417(a) and (b). These regulations specify 

maintenance and inspection standards in reference to 14 C.F.R. Part 43. See, e.g., 14 C.F.R. § 

91.405(a) (stating that each owner or operator of an aircraft "[s]hall have the aircraft inspected as 

prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections ...have discrepancies 

repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter"). An exemption from these regulations is needed 

because Part 43 and these sections only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, which 

the UAS platforms to be operated under this grant of exemption will not have.( Emphasis added)

Equivalent Level of Safety

An equivalent level of safety will be achieved or exceeded because maintenance and 

inspections will be timely performed in accordance with the Manufacturer's Manual and any 

required manufacturer Safety or Service Bulletins. Further, as required by FourProps’ Operations 

Manuals, the PIC will conduct a pre-flight inspection of the FP-UASs and all associated 

equipment to account for all discrepancies and/or inoperable components. Maintenance will be 

performed and verified to address any conditions potentially affecting safe operation of the FPUASs and no flights will occur unless, and until, all flight critical components of the FP-UASs

have been found to be airworthy and in a condition safe for operation. A functional test flight will 

be conducted following the replacement of any flight-critical components. As required by

FourProps’ Operations Manuals, the PIC who conducts the functional test flight will make an 

entry in the FP-UAS aircraft records of the flight.

FourProps’ Operations Manual also includes requirements to follow the manufacturer’s 

UAS aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit

requirements for the following applicable components: powertrain system (powerplant), 

propellers, avionics and control surfaces (including ailerons/elevons), structures & airframe, 

camera system, electrical systems (including batteries), ground control station, hazard 

accessories, and spare parts. Further, FourProps’ Operations Manuals also include procedures to 

document and maintain a record of the FP-UAS’s maintenance, preventative maintenance, 

alterations, status of replacement /overhaul component parts, and the total time in service of the

FP-UASs used under this Grant of Exemption. As a whole, the maintenance and inspection 

procedures required in FourProps’ Operations Manuals ensure that an equivalent or higher level 

of safety will be achieved.
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 16

PILOT-IN-COMMAND OF THE UAS

E. 14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations

FourProps seeks exemption from 14 CFR § 61.113, which restricts private pilot certificate 

holders 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 

private pilot is carrying passengers or cargo for hire. In this case, while the FP-UASs will be 

operated as part of a commercial operation, they carry neither passengers nor cargo. In the Grant 

of Exemption to Astraeus Aerial, the FAA determined that the unique characteristics of UAS 

operation outside of controlled airspace did not warrant the additional cost and restrictions 

attendant with requiring the PIC to have a Commercial Pilot Certificate and Class II Medical

Certificate.12 The fulfillment of the additional requirements for a private pilot to become 

qualified as a commercial pilot would not lead to any additional safety benefits when UAS 

operations are involved. 

Equivalent Level of Safety

The restrictions FourProps has placed on its FP-UAS operations meet or exceed the 

restrictions similarly imposed on Astraeus Aerial. FourProps will operate on private property 

away from persons and property not involved in the operation. FourProps will also obtain an 

ATO issued COA prior to conducting any operations under this Grant of Exemption. All 

operations will be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA 

including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements. A NOTAM will 

also be issued as required by the applicable COA.

In addition to these flight restrictions, FourProps will further ensure safe operation by 

requiring that any PIC be thoroughly versed not only in airspace and communication issued

pertaining to all aircraft operators but also in the unique aspects of FP-UAS flight. As set forth 

in the Operations Manuals, pilots will have experience not only in FP-UAS operations generally 

but have logged flight time in the specific make and model used for the operations before they 

are permitted to participate in commercial flights on behalf of FourProps. The pilot qualification, 

training, and currency requirements in the Operations Manuals ensure that FourProps pilots are 

competent and proficient in the FP-UASs they are operating. FourProps’ training and 

qualification requirements are consistent with those contained in prior FAA Section 333 Grants 

of Exemption, and will provide a higher level of competency and proficiency for its pilots and 

will ensure at least an equivalent level of safety to the public.

 

12Exemption No. 11062 (FAA Docket No. FAA-2014-0352).
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 17

OPERATING PARAMETERS OF THE UAS

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

Inasmuch as there will be no airworthiness certificate issued for the UASs, FourProps seeks an 

exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 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 for 14 C.F.R. § 91.7(a) to the 

extent that the requirements of Part 21 are waived or found inapplicable.13 Accordingly, 

Petitioner request that the requirements for § 91.7(a) be treated in accordance with

Section V(A), supra.

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

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

Title 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2) and § 91.203(a) and (b) require the operator to carry airworthiness 

documents and other aircraft manuals onboard the aircraft. Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2):

(b) No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft –

...

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

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

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

thereof.

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 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.

Given the small size and configuration of the FP-UASs, it would be impossible to keep 

airworthiness documents and other aircraft manuals on board the FP-UAS because there is 

simply no room and the FP-UAS has no cabin or cockpit. As a way to comply with the code

FourProps will maintain the documents with the PIC and make them available for inspection.

 

13See Id. at 13-14, 22.
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 18

Equivalent Level of Safety

In an FAA Office of Chief Counsel's Opinion dated August 8, 2014, and prepared by 

Dean E. Griffith, Attorney, AGC-220, it was acknowledged that the intent of 14 C.F.R. 91.9(b) 

and 91.203(a) and (b) is met if the pilot of the unmanned aircraft has access to the UAS flight 

manual, registration certificate, and other required documents from the ground control station 

from which he or she is operating the aircraft.14 As this FAA Office of Chief Counsel Opinion 

clarifies, the intent of the rule is to ensure the pilot has access to these key documents during 

flight. Therefore, an equivalent level of safety will be achieved by ensuring that the pilot has 

access to the documents at the ground control station from which he or she is piloting the UAS.

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

FourProps seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 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. While the PIC will be familiar with all information 

necessary to safely conduct the flight, an exemption is requested to the extent that an FAAapproved Flight Manual is required.

Equivalent Level of Safety

An equivalent level of safety will be provided by following the FourProps’ Operations Manuals 

and the Manufacturer's Manual. The PIC will perform a series of checklists designed to identify 

any defects or inoperable components in accordance with the FourProps’ Operations Manuals, 

including checklists covering Pre-Flight, Launch, Landing, and Post-Flight procedures. The PIC 

will also be required to review weather, flight requirements, battery charge, landing and takeoff 

distance, UA performance data, and contingency landing areas—before initiation of flight.

FourProps’ Operations Manuals and the Manufacturer's Manual will be kept at the ground 

control station and will be accessible to the PIC at all times while operating the UAS.

I. 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a): Flight Instruction

 

14 Memorandum from Mark Bury, FAA Assistant Chief Counsel for International Law, Legislation and Regulation, 

to John Duncan, FAA Flight Standards Service (Aug. 8, 2014); see also Docket No. FAA-2014-0352 at 16-18.
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 19

FourProps seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a), which provides in pertinent 

part 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." UASs and 

remotely piloted aircraft, by their design, do not have functional dual controls. Instead, flight 

control is accomplished through the use of a device that communicates with the aircraft via radio 

communications. Accordingly, an exemption will be required for the flight instruction 

requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a).

Equivalent Level of Safety

Given the size and speed of the UASs that FourProps intends to use, an equivalent level 

of safe training can still be performed without dual controls because no pilot or passengers are 

aboard the UAS, and as required by the FourProps’ Operations Manuals, all persons will be a 

safe distance away in the event that the UAS experiences any difficulties during flight 

instruction. Moreover, as required by the FourProps’ Operations Manuals, all flight training will 

be conducted in controlled and sterile environment. As a whole, the safety procedures provided 

for in FourProps’ Operations Manuals ensure that the proposed UAS operations provide an 

equivalent or higher level of safety than that provided by the flight instruction regulations.

J. 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(c): Minimum Safe Altitudes

FourProps requests an exemption from the minimum safe altitude requirements of 14 

C.F.R. § 91.119(c).15 Section 91.119 prescribes the minimum safe altitudes under which aircraft 

may not operate, including 500 feet above the surface and away from any person, vessel, vehicle, 

or structure in non-congested areas. See 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(c). Section 91.119(d) allows for a 

helicopter to operate at less than those minimum altitudes when it can be operated "without 

hazard to persons or property on the surface," provided that "each person operating the helicopter 

complies with any routes or altitudes specifically prescribed for helicopters by the FAA."

An exemption is required because the proposed FP-UASs operations will normally need 

to occur below 400 feet AGL. In circumstances where the FP-UAS is used to inspect a structure 

whose height exceeds 400 feet AGL, the FP-UAS will not be operated more than 100 feet above 

the highest point on the structure, and within 50 feet horizontally of the structure. Additionally, 

due to the nature of the proposed operations, the Pilot and/or Observers(s) may need to be less 

than 500 feet away from the FP-UAS.

 

15Relief from § 91.119(a) will not be necessary because Petitioner will be able to perform an emergency landing 

without undFourProps hazard to persons or property on the ground in the event of a failure. Petitioner's proposed 

UAS operations will not occur over congested areas, and therefore an exemption from § 91.119(b) will not be 

necessary. See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11157 to Slugwear, Inc., dba Like on a tree Aerial (FAA-2014-0534 at 

15).
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 20

Equivalent Level of Safety

Compared to flight operations with rotorcraft weighing far more than the maximum 

weights proposed herein, and given the lack of flammable fFourPropsl with the above noted

UASs, any risk associated with these operations is far less than those which presently exist with 

conventional aircraft. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved given the size, weight, and 

speed of the FP-UASs, as well as the controlled location where the operations will occur. In 

order to avoid any risk to manned aircraft, flight operations will be restricted to 400 feet AGL or 

below, or when inspecting a U.S. structure whose height exceeds 400 feet AGL, within 100 feet 

above the highest point on that structure and 50 feet horizontally of the structure.

As set forth in the Operations Manuals, the FP-UASs will be operated in a restricted area, 

and all flights will be operated at a lateral distance of at least 500 feet from any nonparticipating 

persons, unless that person is in a position where he or she is shielded from the FP-UAS and any 

possible debris resulting from its failure. As required by the Operations Manuals, flights will be 

terminated if a nonparticipating person within 500 feet of the FP-UAS leaves a shielded position. 

Further, its operations will occur at least 500 feet away from vehicles or structures unless the 

property owner/controller timely has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety 

assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and, operations near the PIC or 

Observer will not present an undue hazard per § 91.119(a). Adherence to these restrictions in

FourProps’ Operations Manuals will ensure operations can be conducted without compromising 

public safety.16

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

FourProps seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 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 or barometric pressure. An exemption is required to the extent 

that the UASs do not have a barometric altimeter, but rather a GPS altitude read out.

 

16See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11138 to Douglas Trudeau (FAA-2014-0481 at 19): "If barriers or structures 

are present that can sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA or debris in the event of an accident, 

then the UA may operate closer than 500 feet to persons afforded such protection. The operator must also ensure 

that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons 

leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately. When 

considering how to immediately cease operations, the primary concern is the safety of those nonparticipating 

persons. In addition, the FAA finds that operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet to vessels, vehicles and 

structures when the owner/controller of any such vessels, vehicles or structures grants permission for the operation 

and the PIC makes a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determines that it does 

not present an undue hazard."
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Sept 19, 2015

Page 21

Equivalent Level of Safety

The FAA has stated that an equivalent level of safety to the requirements of 14 C.F.R. 

§91.121 can be achieved in circumstances where: (1) the UASs will be operated below 400 feet 

AGL or below17, (2) within VLOS, (3) where GPS based altitude information is relayed in real 

time to the operator at a ground-based on-screen display and, (4) where prior to each flight, a 

zero altitude initiation point is established for the PIC to confirm accuracy of the onboard GPS.18

The FP-UASs that FourProps intends to use for the proposed operations will meet all 

these operational characteristics. Moreover, as required by FourProps’ Operations Manuals, the 

PIC will be required to calibrate the aircraft's GPS compass prior to each flight operation. Like 

prior FAA Section 333 Grants of Exemption, the FP-UASs FourProps intends to use, and the 

safety mitigation procedures contained in the Operations Manuals, both ensure that an equivalent 

level of safety or greater level will be achieved, and a Grant of Exemption to the requirements of 

§ 191.121 is therefore appropriate.

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

FourProps requests an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a)'s fuel requirements for 

flight in VFR conditions. Section 91.151 states:

(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 UAS battery power means that no meaningful 

flight operations can be conducted while still maintaining a 30-minute battery reserve. An 

exemption from the fuel requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a) is therefore required. Moreover, it 

is not FourProps’ intention to fly the FP-UASs at night.

 

17If the height of the structure being inspected exceeds 400 feet AGL, the UAS will not be operated more than 100 

feet above the highest point on the structure.

18See Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (FAA-2014-0352 at 21).
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 22

Equivalent Level of Safety

In the Grant of Exemption to VDOS (Exemption No. 11112), the FAA determined that an 

equivalent level of safety to the fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions could be achieved 

by prohibiting the PIC from beginning a FP-UAS flight unless (considering wind and forecast 

weather conditions) there was enough power to fly to the first intended point of landing and, 

assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 10 minutes. In reaching this 

conclusion, the FAA considered that the UAS batteries for the FP-UAS provide approximately 

50 minutes of powered flight (with payload) and provided battery level and battery time 

remaining in minutes and seconds to the PIC.19 The FAA also considered the fact the FP-UAS

operating manual states: “start every flight with a fully charged battery in the aerial vehicle”, and 

that in the event that the FP-UAS should run low on power, the PIC will be alerted and can

safely land the- FP-UAS as soon as possible. Like the VDOS Grant of Exemption, FourProps’

use of the FP-UAS, combined with the requirements of Petitioner's Operations Manuals, ensure 

that an equivalent level of safety can be achieved and in fact exceeded.

Similarly, in the Grant of Exemption to Alan Purwin (Exemption No. 11161), the FAA 

determined that an equivalent level of safety to the fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions 

could be achieved by prohibiting the PIC from beginning a flight with the UA unless 

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions), there was enough power to safely fly at 

normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power 

remaining. FourProps will adhere to this limitation for its FP-UAS flights.

The FP-UAS includes a low battery warning system and the amount of battery reserve 

power remaining is continuously transmitted to the PIC via telemetric data feed, which 

downlinks from the FP-UAS to a ground-based-on-screen display.20 As required by FourProps’

Operations Manuals, the PIC will promptly fly the FP-UAS back to the home launch location or 

pre-determined abort location where it may safely land, while still maintaining a minimum of 

25% reserve battery power. FourProps submits that the procedures requiring flights to be safely

terminated once the batteries fall below 25% capacity, combined with the requirement that flights 

only be conducted within a secure, isolated area, using a UAS weighing less than 55 pounds, and 

within VLOS of the PIC and Observer(s), ensure that the proposed operation will provide an 

equivalent or higher level of safety to the public to that provided by the regulations from which 

exemption is sought.

 

19. Grant of Exemption No. 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (FAA-2014-0382 at 10).

20. The FP-UAS ground control station displays, the UASs position, navigation route, tail number, altitude, 

heading, north seeking arrow, range to targets, calculated target position, date/time, and sensor heading and 

orientation relative to the UAS.
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 23

VI. DRUG AND ALCOHOL PROGRAM

FourProps will have policies in place to ensure that no person may participate in FPUASs flight operations if they are under the influence of alcohol or any drug.

VII. PUBLIC INTEREST

The public interest will be served by granting FourProps’ Petition for Exemption.

Congress has established a national policy that favors early integration of UAS into the NAS in 

controlled, safe working environments such as those proposed in this Petition. Granting this

Petition for Exemption helps fulfill Congress' goal in passing Section 333(a) through (c) of the

Reform Act—the FAA Administrator's assessment of whether certain UAS may operate safely in

the NAS before completion of the statutorily required rulemaking.

The proposed FP-UAS operations in this Petition for Exemption significantly improves 

the safety and reduces risk of harm, physical injury and property damage to the public at large, 

the property owners from whom permission was granted for use by Petitioner and abutting 

properties, staff of Petitioner, unsuspecting passersby, inspecting engineers from relevant 

organizations and all those who may be in the local vicinity. Traditional methods of inspecting 

and monitoring potential locations and relevant sites and facilities requires location personnel to 

climb towers, trees, venture onto precarious roofs and other dangerous scenarios, perform 

elevated work for which the individual is neither trained nor equipped to perform, which exposes 

them to unnecessary risk of serious physical injury from dangerous falls or other physical 

mishaps. Moreover, inspectors/surveyors are often unnecessarily exposed to hazardous 

conditions, unsafe environments, culturally tense situations and other hazards associated with 

identifying specific locations for potential recording sites to be used in the end product. The use 

of small UASs can eliminate these hazards and ultimately create a much safer method of 

performing these types of inspections creating a safer environment for the public as well as

FourProps employees.

The use of small UASs also enhances safety and reduces risk to the surrounding public 

because, unlike manned aircraft weighing thousands of pounds, carrying crew in addition to 

flammable fuel, the UASs carry no passengers, crew or explosive fuel. Furthermore, in the 

unlikely event of an accident, FourProps’small battery powered FP-UAS presents significantly 

less danger to persons on the ground when compared to operations by conventional manned 

aircraft.21 As Petitioner's FP-UAS are battery powered, the public will also benefit from a 

reduction in harmful petroleum based emissions associated with conventional aircraft performing 

in the same functions proposed herein. Air quality will naturally be improved with the reduction 

of fuel powered vehicles. 

 

21See Grant of Exemption No. 11158 to Team 5, LLC (FAA-2014-0783 at 12): "Manned helicopters conducting 

aerial filming can weigh 6,000 pounds or more and are operated by an onboard pilot, in addition to other onboard 

crewmembers, as necessary. The petitioner’s UAs will weigh less than 55 pounds with no onboard pilot or crew. 

The pilot and crew will be remotely located from the aircraft. The limited weight significantly reduces the potential 

for harm to participating and nonparticipating individuals or property in the event of an incident or accident. 

risk to an onboard pilot and crew during an incident or accident is eliminated with the use of a UA for the aerial 

filming operation."
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 24

Lastly, as recognized by the FAA in prior Section 333 Grants of Exemption to 

filmmakers, UASs provide an additional economic tool for the aerial filming notwithstanding the 

industry, adding a greater degree of flexibility, which supplements the current capabilities offered 

by manned aircraft.22 The quality of the finished product is enhanced and provides a greater 

demand which will aid the current UAS industry and provide additional jobs as the cost of 

providing the needed product is greatly reduced while reducing the difficulty with which the 

finished product is created. The demand for the current industrial product is increased and will 

continue to increase given the enhanced flexibility of production; therefore, given the lower cost, 

owner/operators and others in the relevant industry will be more inclined to utilize the services of 

commercial UAS along with an appropriate licensed PIC’s. 

VIII. PRIVACY

All FP-UASs operations will be conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local 

laws regarding privacy. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access 

property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission 

from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be 

conducted.

IX. FEDERAL REGISTER SUMMARY

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. Part 11, the following summary is provided for publication in the 

FEDERAL REGISTER, should it be determined that publication is needed: Petitioner seeks an 

exemption from the following rules in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations:

Part 21, Subpart H; Part 27; 45.23(b); 45.27(a); 61.113; 91.7(a); 91.9(b)(2); 91.9(c);

91.103; 91.109(a); 91.119(c); 91.121; 91.151(a); 91.203 (a) & (b); 91.405(a); 91.407(a)(1);

91.409(a)(1) & (2); 91.417 (a) & (b).

The exemption will enhance safety by reducing risk to the aircraft crew, production crew, general 

public, property owners and city structures from the substantial hazards associated with 

performing equivalent film work and aerial video production with conventional

fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, or other methods.

X. CONCLUSION

FourProps’ Petition for Exemption satisfies the criteria articulated in Section 333 of the

Reform Act of 2012 which includes weight; speed; operating capabilities; proximity to airports 

and populated areas; operation within VLOS and national security. The proposed FP-UAS

operations will benefit the public as a whole by improving safety and reducing risk by alleviating 

human exposure to danger while lowering the attendant related costs thereby increasing the 

demand for the finished product. In consideration of the foregoing, this Petition for Exemption 

 

22See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11178 to Picture Factory, Inc. (FAA-2014-0794 at 18).
U.S Department of Transportation

Sept 19, 2015

Page 25

provides the FAA with more than adequate justification for granting the reqFourPropssted 

exemptions allowing FourProps to use small FP-UAS s in the recorded production of its product.

We thank you for your prompt consideration of our requested exemptions.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tom Shipley

85 Elm St

Norton, MA, 02766

sendtotes@gmail.com

(508)944.3516

(The following attached items contain proprietary and commercial information exempt from

disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. § 522 et seq., and should be held in a

separate file pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b)).

Attachments:

1. General Operations Manual

2. PIC Operating Manual

3. Company Protocols

4. Location Protocols

5. Flight Communications Protocols

6. Departing Location Protocols

7. Transmitter Protocols

8. Preflight Checklist

9. Post Flight Checklist

10. Equipment Checklist

11. UAS Manufacturer’s Manuals

a. User Manuals

b. UAS Maintenance Manuals