### 1 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

WASHINGTON, DC

**IN THE MA**

**TTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: CRA** **IG HUTSON FOR A** **N EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF** 

**TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERA L REGULATIONS**  **SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), A** **ND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIA L OPERA**  **TION OF DJI Phantom 2 A** **ND DJI Phantom 3 UNMANNED A IRCRA** **FT SYSTEMS PURSUA** **NT TO SECTION 333 OF**  **THE F AA**  **MODERNIZATION A ND REFORM A** **CT OF 2012**

**(PUBLIC LA**

**W 112 -** **95)**

**Submitted on November**  **23 , 2015**  Craig Hutson

. 153 River Rd Graford, TX 76449 214
- 679
- 2832 cdhutson@gmail.com

### 2 **TA BLE OF CONTENTS**  Page GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS



### ................................ ................................ ................... ...... 3

SUMMARY



### ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ ... 4

IN TRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER



### ................................ .................... ....... 4

BACKGROUND.......................................................................................

...... ............ .............. 4

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

..................................................... ..... 5

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

.................. ...................... 6 THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM W HICH CRAIG HUTSON SEEKS EXEMPTION......

.................................................... .................................. ....... 7 THE EXTENT OF RELIEF CRAIG HUTSON SEEKS AND THE REASON CRAIG HUTSON SEEKS THE RELIEF...........

...................................................... .... ............. ......................... ..........1 0 THE REASONS WH Y GRANTING CRAIG HUTSON ’S REQUEST W OULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ................................

.......... .. ..1 3 THE REASONS WH Y GRANTING THE EXEMPTION W OULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY...................

........................................................................... . ........16 SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER.................3 0 ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS , OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT CRAIG HUTSON’S R EQUEST...

.. ................................................... ......3 0 CONCLUSION......................................................................................................

...... .. . ......... 3 1 APPENDICES...............................................................

............... .........................3 2

### 3 **G LOSSA** **RY OF A BBREVIA**  **TIONS** AGL Above Ground Level AOI Area of Interest ATC Air Traffic Control ATO Air Traffic Organization AV Aerial Vehicle CFR Code of Federal Regulations COA Certificate of Authorization FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAR Federal Aviation Regulation GCS Ground Con trol Station GPS Global Positioning System LOL Loss of Link NAS National Airspace System NOTAM Notice to Airman PIC Pilot In Command Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333 SO Safety Observer SOP Standard Operating Procedures UA Unmanned Aircraft UAS Unmanned Aircraft System VFR Visual Flight Rules VLOS Visual Line of Site VM C Visual Meteorological Conditions VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing

### 4 **SUMMA RY**  Craig Hutson seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit Craig Hutson to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States. **INTRODUCTION A ND INTERESTS OF THE PETI**  **TIONER** Craig Hutson provides his clients with photography and video services of properties and buildings fo r the purpose of advertising and promotion. The objective of Craig Hutson and his aerial operations is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting:

• Residential Construction

• Real
- estate marketing



### • Resort property marketing

**BA CKGROUND**  Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 UAS Craig Hutson seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 Advanced is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems.
The DJI Phantom 3 Advanced h as a maximum gross weight of 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, a length of 17.3 inches, width of 17.7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 42 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 Advanced UAS is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polym er battery powered electric motors.

**BA SIS FOR PETITION**  Petitioner, Craig Hutson , pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations

### 5

(14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems , hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 Advanced UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Craig Hutson operation of DJI Phantom 3 Advan ced UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Accordingly, Craig Hutson requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. Craig Hutson submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. Craig Hutson will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Craig Hutson will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.
Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: P ilot in command, is requested by Craig Hutson to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight
- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

### 6

Craig Hutson seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Craig Hutson submits that he w ill ensure that the DJI Phantom 3UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight. He will utilize the preflight instructions provided by DJI to ensure airworthiness checks prior to each flight. Craig Hutson also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings , a s the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom Advanced UAS will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data li nk , which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with Craig Hutson ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Additionally, Craig Hutson seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. Craig Hutson submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Craig Hutson provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:
**A. Name**  **An d A** **ddress Of The Petitioner.** The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is: Craig Hutson 153 River Rd Graford, TX 76449 214
- 679
- 2832 cdhutson@gmail.com
**B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Exemption.** 

### 7

**1. Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirement s Of Section**  **61.113(a) A nd (b).**  Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part: (a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft. (b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if

— (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property fo r compensation or hire. **2. Craig**  **Hutson Seeks**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirements**  **Of Section**  **91.7(a).** Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , subsection (a), states the following: (a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. **3. Craig**  **Hutson Seeks**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirements**  **Of Section**  **91.121.**Section 9 1.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in part: (a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating
-- (1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to
--

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

### 8

**4. Craig Hutson**  **Se eks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section**  **91.151(b).** Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , subsection (b), states the following:

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

— (a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections , except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]
**6. Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1)**  Section 91.407, entitled Operation after mainten ance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration , subsection (a)(1), states the following: (a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless
-- (1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter[.] **7. Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) A** **nd 91.409(a)(2).** Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), states the following:

### 9 (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had
-- (1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to serv ice by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or (2) An inspection fo r the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter. **8. Craig**  **Hutson Seeks**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirements**  **Of Sections 91.417(a) A** **nd 91.417(b).** Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records , subsections (a) and (b), state the following: (a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods specifi ed in paragraph (b) of this section: (1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 100
- hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include
-- (i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and (ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and

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

(i) The total time in service of t he airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each rotor. (ii) The current status of life
- lim ited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance. (iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis.

### 10 (iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, includi ng the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained. (v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of co mpliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required. (vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alterati on to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances. (b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records fo r the periods prescribed: (1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the work is performed. (2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold. (3) A list of defects fu rnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.
**C. The**  **Extent Of**  **Relief Craig**  **Hutson Seeks**  **An d**  **The Reason**  **Craig Hutson Seeks The**  **Relief.**
**1. Extent Of Relief Craig Hutson**  **Seeks A nd The Reason**  **Craig Hutson Seeks**  **Relief From Section 61.113(a) A nd (b).**  Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight
- hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compe nsation or hire. This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b)

### 11

state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. As set forth more fully below, Craig Hutson submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC w ill be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight
- hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as d escribed in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Further, Craig Hutson submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , conducted by the PI C pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Craig Hutson ’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.
**2. Extent Of Relief Craig Hutson**  **Seeks A nd The Reason**  **Craig Hutson Seeks Relief From Sect**  **ion 91.7(a).** Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , is requested to the extent required to allow Craig Hutson to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Craig Hutson seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R . Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Craig Hutson will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) prior to every fligh t, and further, determine that the aircraft is in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.
**3. Extent Of Relief Craig Hutson**  **Seeks A nd The Reason**  **Craig Hutson Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.**  Relief from Section 91.12 1, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight operations of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize s a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UAS to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to

### 12

air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Craig Hutson seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight. Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipme nt, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with altitude information of the UA on the heads
- up display of the GCS.
**4. Extent Of Relief Craig Hutson**  **Seeks A nd The Rea** **son Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).**
Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hou rs in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. Craig Hutson seeks t he requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that Craig Hutson propo ses to conduct pursuant to this Petition. Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, the DJI Phantom 3 operating documents, and Craig Hutson ’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that Craig Hutson will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.
**5. Extent Of Relief Craig Hutson**  **Seeks A nd The Reason**  **Craig Hutson Seeks**  **Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), A nd**  **91.417(a) & (b).**
Since Se ctions 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, Craig Hutson requests relief

### 13

from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more ful ly below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Craig Hutson will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive mai ntenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Craig Hutson will document and maintain all maintenance re cords for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.
**D. The Reasons Why**

**Granting Craig Hutson**  **Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public A**  **s A**  **Whole.** Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Craig Hutson to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States. Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide s ignificant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of Craig Hutson ’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues. **1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NA S.**  The DJI Pha ntom 3 UAS is battery powered and serve s as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations. **2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety A** **nd Efficiency**

**Of The DJI Phantom 3**  **UA S** 
**.**

### 14

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photogra phy flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS produce s no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20
- 30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS , while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UAS a re propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. By using the DJI Phantom 3 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS (weighing approximately 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, at its m aximum gross weight with a length of 17.3 inches , width of 17.7 inches , and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). **3. Performing A erial Video and Photography**  **Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 UA** **S Will Benefit Th e Economy** 
**.** In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will allow United States based companies and individuals , like Craig Hutson , to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded aviation fuels , U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft. By operating the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, companies and individuals such as Craig Hutson , can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through

### 15

commercial use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , provides a stable workforce that in creases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United States and abroad.
**4. There A re No Privacy**  **Issues.** Similar to the ma nned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for many years , Craig Hutson ’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be operated only in compliance wit h operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement and permission to videotape/photograph as well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. **E. The Reasons Why**

**Granting The Exemption Would Not A dversely**  **A ffect**  **Safety , Or Ho** **w T he Exemption Would Provide A**  **Level Of Safety**

**A t Least**  **Equal To That Provided By T**  **he Rule From Which Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Exemption.**  **1. Reasons**  **Why**

**T he**  **DJI Phantom**  **3 UA** **S Meet** **s The**  **Conditions Of**  **The FA**  **A Modernization and Reform A** **ct of 2012 (FMRA ) Section 333.**  In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Craig Hutson ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA S ection 333 states the following, in part:

(a) In General.
--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraf t systems may operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the plan and rulemaking required by section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by section 334 of this Act. (b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems. -- In ma king the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a mi nimum--

### 16 (1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation withi n visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and
(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 44 704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1).
(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.
--If the Secretary determines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may op erate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.
In seeking this exemption, Craig Hutson submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can opera te safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations. **a. The**  **Specifications Of**  **The DJI**  **Phantom 3**  **UA S**  **Demon strate**  **Its Safe**  **Characteristics.**

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability. **i. Technical Specificati ons Of The DJI Phantom 3**  **UA S** 
**.** The technical specifications of t he DJI Phantom 3 UAS is set fo rth by the DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals, attached hereto as Appendix A

. **ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **Au tonomous Flight A** **nd Navigation Modes Enable The**  **UA S**  **To Remain W ithin A**  **Defined Operational A rea.** 

### 17

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided at pages 12
- 16 and 45
- 50 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A.
**iii. The DJI Phantom 3 UA** **S Is**  **Designed For A utomatic Return To Home**  **Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.**
Wh en the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will re main stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UAS will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown. A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth at pages 13 through 15 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A

. **iv. Th e DJI Phantom 3 GCS A** **nd Its Operation.** A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 40 through 47 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual. DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals are atta ched hereto as Appendix A

. **b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UA** **S Is**  **Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A**  **Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety**  **Observer.** Craig Hutson holds a current Commercial Pilot license (certificate number 3147120) and valid Texas Driver’s license and will be the only person to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS . Additionally, a safety observer will assist in flights. **c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 UA** **S Will Be Conducted Pursuant To**  **Specific Operating Limitati ons.**  In seeking this exemption, Craig Hutson proposes to commercially operate DJI Phantom 3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations :

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to

### 18 the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS we ighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operatio ns of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant.

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

3. The UAS may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

5. The UAS must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lens es, as specified on the PIC’s FAA
- issued airman medical certificate.

6. The use of fi rst person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted.



### 7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requ irement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents.

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC

### 19 with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/ obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments.

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the Admini strator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precede nce and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS
-80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating docum ents.

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessa ry maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records.

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records.

### 20

12. T he pre
-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating documents.

13. The operator must fol low the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements.

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance with the operating docume nts. Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS to service.

15. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety Bulletins.

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspecti ons.

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

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the abili ty to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification fli ght hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience
- building flights, all persons not essential for flight

### 21

operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C .F.R. § 91.119.

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA offi ce closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA
- published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator up on request.

21. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre - determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents.

23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining.
25. The operator m ust obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Wa iver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements in

### 22 the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identification (N
- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as larg e as practicable.

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

28. The docume nts required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of wa y to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

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

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

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;

### 23 b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and;

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

32. All operations shall be conducted over priva te or controlled
- access property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted.

33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS
-80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transpo rtation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB We b site: www.ntsb.gov.

**2. Reasons**  **Why**

**A n**  **Exemption From**  **The Requirements**  **Of Section**  **61.113(a) A nd (b) Would Not A** **dversely A**  **ffect Safety**
**.** Craig Hutson submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight
- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely op erate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.11 3(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 1 1161).

### 24

Craig Hutson will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight
- hour requirements or the DJI Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a m anner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to th e hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulat ions will ensure an equivalent level of safety during Craig Hutson ’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating a s follows: In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi
- rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the sam e make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be

### 25

included in the 10 hours of multi
- rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight
- hour requirements in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtain ed in compliance with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience
- building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and experience
building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.
Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. Accordingly, Craig Hutson will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate t he DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight
- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuve rs and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

**3. Reasons Why**

**A n Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a)**  **Would Not A dversely**  **A ffect Safety** 
**.** The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a ) will be maintained because prior to every flight, Craig Hutson will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations herein. Addit ionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11 136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

**4. Reasons Why**

**A n Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121**  **Would Not A dversely**  **A ffect Safety** 
**.** The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained b ecause the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS

### 26

equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitu de information, combined with Craig Hutson ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment i nstalled onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground level. The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all mate rial respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

**5. Reasons Why**

**A n Exemption From The Requirements Of Secti**  **on 91.151(b) Would Not A** **dversely A**  **ffect Safety**
**.** A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; (2) the limitations o n the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Craig Hutson will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery p ower to fly for a total duration of 14. 5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide aud ible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, DJI Phantom 3 UAS will descend and land automatically. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063,

### 27

11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 111 60, 11161).

**6. Reasons Why**

**A n Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections**  **91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), A nd 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not**  **Ad versely** 

**A ffect Safety** 
**.** In seeking this exemption, Craig Hutson submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because Craig Hutson will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Craig Hutson will document and maintai n all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

. Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, Craig Hutson will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91. 409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual is attached hereto as Appendix A. Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Craig Hutson will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive mainte nance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating documents. Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all mainte nance of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) , 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. In consideration of Craig Hutson ’s proposed operating limitations, the ope rating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , Craig Hutson submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 1 1157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).
**7. The FAA**

**May Prescribe A** **ny**

**Other Conditions For Safe Operation.**

### 28

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, Craig Hutson re quests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS fo r the limited purpose of conducting aerial vi deo and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS. Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design features of the aircraft. Section 21.16, entitled Special Conditions, states the following: If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller becau se of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations.
See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16. Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R . § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe special conditions for Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

**• A Summary** 

**T hat Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules**  **From Which Craig Hutson**  **Seeks Exemption:**

### 29

Craig Hutson seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

**A Brief Description Of The Nature Of**  **The Exemption Craig Hutson**  **Seeks:**
This exemption will permit Craig Hutson to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

**• A ny**  **A dditional Inf** **ormation, Vie ws**  **, Or A rguments A**  **vailable To Support Craig**  **Hutson ’s Request.** 
This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may op erate safely in the NAS. As such, Craig Hutson ’s request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification. As discussed in detail above, Craig Hutson will operate th e DJI Phantom 3 UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. **CONCLUSION** As set forth herein, Craig Hutson seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Sectio n 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain area s of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also

### 30

advancing the interests of the public, by allowing Craig Hutson to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially within the NAS. **WHEREFORE** , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Craig Hutson respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Leading Edge to operate the DJI Phan tom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.
Respectfully submitted on June 14, 2015 Craig Hutson 153 River Rd Graford, TX 76449 214
- 679
- 2832 cdhutson@gmail.com

### 31

Appendices :

A

– DJI Phantom 3 Manual:

APPENDIX

– A

**DJI Phantom 3 TECHNICA L SPECIFICA**  **TIONS** Craig Hutson only utilize s safe and reliable UAS

. DJI is an industry leader in small UAS production. DJI UAS are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to set parameters wh ich will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be set to limit fligh t to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as we ll as limit flight to a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real
-time altitude and location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices)
2.2 DJI Inspire 1

2.2.1 Aircraft 2.2.1.1 Model

– Phantom 3 2.2.1.2 We ig ht (Battery Included)

– 1280 grams 2.2.1.3 Hovering Accuracy (GPS Mode)

– Vertical: +/
- 10cm; Horizontal: +/
- 1m 2.2.1.4 Max Angular Velocity

–Yaw: 200 0/s 2.2.1.5 Max Tilt Angle
- 35 0 2.2.1.6 Max Ascent Speed

– 5m/s 2.2.1.7 Max Descent Spee d

– 3m/s 2.2.1.8 Max Speed

– 16m/s (ATTI mode, no wind

– NOT RECOMMENDED) 2.2.1.9 Max Flight Altitude

– 6000m 2.2.1.10 Max Flight Time

– Approximately 23 minutes 2.2.1.12 Motor Model

– DJI 3510 2.2.1.13 Propeller Model

– DJI 1345 2.2.1.14 Operating Temperature Range

– 14 0 F to 104 0 F (
- 10 0 C to 40 0 C) 2.2.1.15 Di mensions

– 17 1⁄4” x 17 3⁄4” x 12”

### 32

2.2.2 Gimbal 2.2.2.1 Model

– ZENMUSE X3 2.2.2.2 Output Power (with camera)

– Static: 9W; In Motion: 11 W 2.2.2.3 Operating Current

– Static: 750mA; In Motion: 900mA 2.2.2.4 Angular Vibration Range
- ±0.03 0 2.2.2.5 Mounting

– Detachable 2.2.2.6 Controllable Range

– Pitch:
- 90 0 to +30 0 ; Pan: ±320 0 2.2.2.7 Mechanical Range

– Pitch:
- 125 0 to 45 0 ; Pan: ±330 0 2.2.2.8 Max Controllable Speed

– Pitch: 120 0/s; Pan: 180 0/s 2.2.3 Camera 2.2.3.1 Name

– Sony EXMOR 2.2.3.2 Model

– 12.4M Pixel 2.2.3.3 Total Pixels

– 12.4M 2.2.3.4 Effective Pixels

– 12.76M 2.2.3.5 Image Max Size

– 4000x3000 2.2.3.6 IS O Range

– 100
- 3200 2.2.3.7 Field of View
- 94 0 2.2.3.8 CM OS

– Sony EXMOR 1/2.3” 2.2.3.9 HD Video Recording

– UHD(4K): 4096x2160p24/25, 3840x2160p24/25/30; FHD: 1920x1080p24/25/30/48/50/60; HD: 1280x720p24/25/30/48/50/60 2.2.3.10 Operating Temperature Range
- 32 0 F
- 104 0 F (0 0 C
- 40 0 C) 2.2.4 Transmitter 2.2.4.1 Name

– C1 2.2.4.2 Operating Frequency

– 5.728
- 5.850GHz; 2.400
- 2.483GHz 2.2.4.3 Communicating Distance (unobstructed)

– 2000m 2.2.4.4 Output Power

– 9W 2.2.4.5 Operating Temperature Range
- 14 0 F to 104 0 F (
- 10 0 C to 40 0 C) 2.2.4.6 Battery

– 600mAh L iPo 2S