July 14

, 2015

Exemption No. 12034 Regulatory Docket No. FAA

– 20 15

– 1304

Mr. David A. Senechal P.O. Box 21396 Louisville

, KY 40221

Dear Mr. Senechal :

This letter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations of the exemption, including the date it ends.

By letter dated April 14, 2015 , you petitioned the Federal Avia tion Administration (FAA) for an exemption . The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned ai rcraft system (UAS) to conduct general still and video photography

. See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA des cribing the proposed operations and the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption

. The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition in the Federal Register because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner

.

Airworthiness Certification

The UAS proposed by the petitioner is a DJI S900

. In accordance with the statutory criteria provided in Section 333 of P ublic Law 112

− 95 in reference to 49 U

. S

. C

. § 44704, and in consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation, the Secretary of Transportation has determined that this aircraft meets the conditions of Sec tion 333. Therefore, the FAA finds that relief from 14 CFR part 21

, C ertification procedures for products and parts,2

Subpart H

— Airworthiness Certificates , and any associated noise certification and testing requirements of part 36, is not necessary.

The Basis for Our Decision

You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection 1

. The FAA has issued grants of exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. In Grants of Exemption No s

. 11062 to Astrae us Aerial ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 11109 to Clayco, Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA

− 2014

− 0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Lab s , Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0642), the FAA found that the enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned aircraft (UA) with the specifications described by the petitioner and carrying no passengers or crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater propo rtions, carrying crew in addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled by this exemption is in the public interest.

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

—

 They are similar in all material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213 ;

 The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213 also apply to the situation you pre sent; and

 A grant of exemption is in the public interest.

Our Decision

In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, delegated to me by the Administrator, Mr. David A. Senechal is granted an exemption from 14 CFR §§ 61.23(a) and ( c ), 61.101(e)(4 ) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a) , 91.7(a), 91.119(c), 91.121, 91.151(a)(1), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 91.417(a) and (b), to the extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform aerial data collection

. This exemption is subject to the conditions and limitations listed below.

Conditions and Limitations

In this grant of exemption, Mr. David A. Senechal is hereafter referred to as the operator.

1 Aerial data collection includes any remote sensing and measuring by an instrument(s) aboard the UA. Examples include imagery (photography, video, infrared, etc.), electronic measurement (precision surveying, RF analysis, etc.), chemical measurement (part iculate measurement, etc.), or any other gathering of data by instruments aboard the UA.3

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

1. Operations authorized by thi s grant of exemption are limited to the DJI S900 when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this exemption

.

2. Operations for the purpose of closed

- set motion picture and television filming are not permitted.

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (100 miles per hour). The exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine compliance with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the aircraft manufacturer.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL). Altitude mus t be reported in feet AGL.

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

- issued a irman medical certificate or U.S. driver’s license.

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within the visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times ;

e lectronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transf er his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the VO can perform the duties required of the VO.

7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its operations in accordance with the conditions a nd limitations stated in this grant of exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists betwe en the conditions and limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations herein take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its o perating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. The4

o perator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to this grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then th e operator must petition for an amendment to its grant of exemption. The FA A’s UAS Integration Office (AFS− 80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents.

8. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or altera tions that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g.

, replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. Functional test flights may only be conduct ed by a PIC with a VO and must remain at least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property.

9. The operator is responsible for maintaining and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe operation.

10. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre

- flight inspection and determine the UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre

- flight inspection must account for all potential discrepa ncies, e.g.

, inoperable components, items, or equipment. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight.

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and aircraft components.

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

13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a current FAA airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a state, the District of Col u mbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government. The PIC must also meet the flight revi ew requirements specified in 14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate.

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption, including evasive and em ergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the ope rator’s PICs and VOs5

(traini ng, proficiency, and experience

- building) and determining the PIC’s ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption are permitted under the terms of this exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During traini ng, proficiency, and experience

- building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operat e the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

15. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flig hts under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point (ARP) as denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not denoted with an ARP, the center of the airport symbo l as denoted on the current FAA

- published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption holder. The letter of agreement with t he airport management must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

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

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

- determined location within the pr ivate or controlled

- access property.

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

20. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minutes or with the rese rve power recommended by the manufacturer if greater.

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). All operations shall be cond ucted in accordance with an ATO

- issued COA. The exemption holder may apply for a new or amende d COA if it intends to conduct operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the attached COA

.

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have ide ntification (N− Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.6

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

24. The UA must remain clear a nd give way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

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

26. All Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons, vessels, v ehicles, 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 protectio n. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately in a manner ensuring the safety of nonparticipating persons ; and b. The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission for operating closer to those objects and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard.

The PIC, VO, operator t rainees or essential persons are not considered nonparticipating persons under this exemption.

27. All operations shall be conducted over private or control led

- access property with permission from the property owner/controller or authorized representative. P ermission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted.

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

. If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed

- set motion picture and television filming and production, the following additional conditions and limitations apply.

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) as documented in this grant of exemption.7

30. At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) wi th jurisdiction over the a rea of proposed filming. The 3

- day notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights; b. Name and phone number of the operator for the UAS aerial filming conducted under this grant of exemption;

c. Name and phone number of th e person responsible for the on

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

e. Name and certificate number of UAS PICs involv ed in the aerial filming; f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property owners and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the list of those who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request; g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area, city, town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the altitudes essential to accomplish the operatio n.

31. Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating persons consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, as specified in the exemption holder’s MPTOM.

Unless otherwise specified in this grant of exemption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.8

This exemption terminates on July 31, 2017 , unless sooner superseded or rescinded.

Sincerely, / s/ John S. Duncan Director, Flight Standards Service

EnclosuresUNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

WASHINGTON, D.C.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: David A. Senechal FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL

OPERATION OF DJI S900 AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS PURSUASNT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on April 14, 2015

David A. Senechal P.O. Box 21396 Louisville KY 40221 Tel: (812) 786-61002 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

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

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

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

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

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

A. NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER...........................................7

B. THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH DAVID A. SENECHAL SEEKS EXEMPTION....................................................7

C. THE EXTENT OF RELIEF DAVID A. SENECHAL SEEKS AND THE REASON DAVID A. SENECHAL SEEKS THE RELIEF........................11

D. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING DAVID A. SENECHAL’S REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST.........................................14

E. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY.....................................................17

F. SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER...............................................................................31

G. ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT DAVID A. SENECHAL’S REQUEST........... 31

CONCLUSION........................................................................................32

APPENDICES....................................................................................... ..333 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAR Federal Aviation Regulation

GCS Ground Control Station GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot In Command Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333 SO Safety Observer SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft UAS Unmanned Aircraft System VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 SUMMARY

David A. Senechal 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 David A. Senechal to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the comme rcial purpose of conducting general still and video photography, real estate photography, news and special events, film sets, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

David A. Senechal will provide his clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced technologies and solutions to increase efficiency, productivity and effe ctiveness. David A. Senechal will also provide its clients with the high quality digital conte nt for use in their commercial, personal, and non-profit multimedia projects. David A. Senechal has over 40 years of experience in still and motion picture/video photography. Additionally, he has over four (4) years of recreational/hobby experience in Remote Control He licopter and UAS operations. David A. Senechal is also a private pilot and holds an FAA Control Tower Operator’s (CTO) license. The objective of David A. Senechal’s aeri al video and photography operation is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of commercial

, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting:

• General Videography and Photography

• Motion Picture and News Filming

• Real Estate Photography

• Increase public knowledge of UAS and promote safe UAS operations.

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI S900

David A. Senechal seeks an exemption to operate a DJI S900 UAS for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI S900 UAS is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) ut ilizing a Spektrum DX18 18-channel 2.4 GHz transmitter. The GPS-based autopilot system is a5

WooKong M (multi-rotor), which utilizes a main controller, an Inertial Measure ment Unit (IMU), a GPS/compass module, and a power management unit; and transmits pertinent position and operational data to the operator via an on-screen-display (iOSD). The airborne navigational information and air/ground telemetry are transmitted t o the GCS via a 5.8 GHz transmitter. The DJI S900 UA has a maximum gross weight of approximate ly 14 pounds, a length of 39 inches, a height of 18 inches (landing gear extended), and a maximum speed of 40 knots. The DJI S900 UA is equipped with six main rotors driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors; and utilizes GPS wit h air/ground telemetry for positional determination and to provide the operator with pertinent fli ght data

while the UA is airborne. The DJI S900 UAS that will be operated by David A. Senechal will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft , as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration , and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking

.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, David A. Senechal, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems , hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI S900 UAS in the Nati onal 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 associa ted with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, David A. Senechal’s operation of the DJI S900 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, David A. Senechal 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 airworthine ss certificate.6 David A. Senechal submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. David A. Senechal will personally, or otherwis e authorize only experienced personnel or technicians to, perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practicesprescribed in the operating documents [i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multirotor) User Manual, DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintena nce log]. Furthermore, David A. Senechal will document and maintain all maintenance rec ords

for the DJI S900 UAS. Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command , is requested by David A. Senechal to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher l evel certificate, who meets FAA approved medical standards, and who has demonstrated, b y meeting minimum flight- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to s afely operate the DJI S900 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasi ve and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vess els,

vehicles and structures. David A. Senechal seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft

airworthiness , because the DJI S900 UA does not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, David A. Senechal submits that the PIC will ensure that the DJI S900 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents [ i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, Spektrum DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintenance log], and that the aircraf t is in a condition for safe flight. David A. Senechal also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJI S900 UAS will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI S90 UA will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with David A. Senechal’s operation of t he7

DJI S900 UA within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Additionally, David A. Senechal seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions . David A. Senechal submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI S900 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 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at

least 5 minutes. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, David A. Senechal provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is: David A. Senechal P.O. Box 21396 Louisville KY 40221 Tel: (812) 786-6100 Email: dsenechal57@gmail.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. from Which David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption.

1. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command

, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part:

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in comma nd (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for com pensation 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; and8 (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

2. David A. Senechal 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. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121.

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following , in part:

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter t hat 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, the 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.

4. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , subsection (b), states the following:

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 minutes.

5. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).9 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. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1)

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration

, subsection (a)(1), states the following:

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, prevent ive 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. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section s 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), states the following:

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had --

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accor dance with part 21 of this chapter.

8. David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section s 91.417(a) And 91.417(b).

Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records , subsections (a) and (b), state the following:

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section:

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 100-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved10 inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include--

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and

(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service.

(2) Records containing the following information:

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

(ii) The current status of life-limited parts of each airframe, engine

, propeller, rotor, and appliance.

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis.

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since th e 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 saf ety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required.

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances.

(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed:

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retaine d 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 retaine d and transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold.11 (3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircra ft is approved for return to service.

C. The Extent Of Relief David A. Senechal Seeks And The Reason David A. Sene chal Seeks The Relief.

1. Extent Of Relief David A. Senechal Seeks And The Reason David A. Senechal Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (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, who meets FAA approved medical standards, and who has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire.

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircr aft 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, David A. Senechal submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI S900 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI S900 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, David A. Senechal submits that all flights of the DJI S900 UA, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to David A.12 Senechal’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compens ation

or hire.

2. Extent Of David A. Senechal Seeks And The Reason David A. Senechal Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).

Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , is requested to the extent required to allow David A. Senechal to determine that the DJI S900 UAS is in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents [i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, Spektrum DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintenance log].

David A. Senechal seeks the requested relief because the DJI S900 UA does not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpa rt H. Therefore, David A. Senechal will ensure that the DJI S900 UA is in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents [i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, Spektrum DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintenance log] prior to every flight

, and further, determine that the aircraft is in condition for safe flight, as st ated in the

conditions and limitations below.

3. Extent Of Relief David A. Senechal Seeks And The Reason David A. Senechal Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to al low flight operations of the DJI S900 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor

, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UAS to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operati ons be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), David A. Senechal seeks the requested relief because the DJI S900 UAS’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight.13 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 S900 UAS is equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with altitude information of the UAS on the heads-up display of the GCS.

4. Extent Of Relief David A. Senechal Seeks And The Reason David A. Senechal 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 S900 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 14 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes. David A. Senechal seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI S900 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of a ny aerial video or still photo flight operations that David A. Senechal proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI S90 0 UAS, the DJI S900 operating documents, and David A. Senechal’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that the PIC will safely operate the battery powered DJI S900 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 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes.

5. Extent Of Relief David A. Senechal Seeks And The Reason David A. Senechal Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).14 Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, David A. Senechal requests relief from these Sections because the DJI S900 UAS does not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI S900 UAS m eets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, David A. Senechal will personally, or otherwise use experienced personnel or technicians to, perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents [i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, Spektrum DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintenance log]. Furthermore, David A. Senechal will

document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI S900 UAS.

D. The Reasons Why Granting David A. Senechal’s Request Would Be In The Publi c Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole.

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing David A. Senechal to safely, efficiently, and economically perform general aer ial video and photography, as well as real estate, special events, film sets, and landsca pe over certain

areas of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI S900 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Finally, the benefits of David A. Senechal’s proposed operation of the DJI S900 UAS will be realized without introducing any privacy issues.

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

The DJI S900 UAS is battery powered and serves as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtai n aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI S900 UAS would reduce the15 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 S900 UAS does not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI S900 UAS.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI S900 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of a ir and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI S900 UAS produces no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircr aft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20-30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI S900 UAS, while virtually eliminating the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, al so eliminates noise pollution, as the UAS are propelled by battery powered elect ric motors rather than an internal combustion engine.

By using the DJI S900 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the 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 complete ly eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI S900 UAS, weighing approximately 14 pounds at its maximum gross weight, with a length of 39 inches, and with no fuel on board, has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in16 the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operat ions (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons).

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI S900 UAS Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI S900 UAS is also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI S900 UAS will allow United States based entities, like David A. Senechal, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protect ion 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 S900 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 S900 UAS, entities such as David A. Senechal can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employe es and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the DJI S900 UAS, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United States

and abroad.

4. There Are No Privacy Issues.

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, David A. Senechal’s proposed operation of the DJI S900 UAS will not introduce any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI S900 UAS will be operated in17 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 Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI S900 UAS Meet The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333.

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associa ted with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, David A. Senechal’s operation of the DJI S900 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS wil l create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part:

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

(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1).18 (c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.

In seeking this exemption, David A. Senechal submits that the DJI S900 UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI S900 UAS; (b) the pilot certification require ment; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

a. The Specifications Of The DJI S900 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI S900 UAS does not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability.

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI S900 UAS.

The technical specifications of the DJI S900 UAS are set forth in the DJI S900 and the WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manuals, attached hereto as Exhibits A and B, respectively.

ii. The DJI S900 UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.

The DJI S900 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI S900 UAS is provided in the WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B.

iii. The DJI S900 UAS Is Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI S900 UA will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI S900 UAS does not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UA will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position19 and shutdown. A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI S900 UAS is provided in the WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B.

iv. The DJI S900 GCS And Its Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJIS900 flight control software is provided in the WooKong M (multirotor) and Spektrum DX18 User Manuals, attached hereto as Exhibits B and C, respectively.

b. Flight Operations Of DJI S900 UAS Are Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.

David A. Senechal will authorize only certificated pilots who meet FAA approved medical standards to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI S900 UAS. Additionally, when needed to maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS), a safety observer will assist the pilot during flight time.

c. Flights Of DJI S900 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, David A. Senechal proposes to commercially operate DJI S900 UAS for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations:

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI S900 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant.

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

3. The UAS may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 40 knots.

4. The UAS must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the20 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, or safety observer, at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued airman medical certificate.

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) to maintain VLOS is not permitted.

7. When needed to satisfy the VLOS requirement, all operations will utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The PIC and SO 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.

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments. The SO must possess a valid state driver’s license to ensure that he/she meets the minimum health and visual acuity requirements to perform the SO function.

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

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating21 until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records.

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate, and meet FAA approved medical standards.

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted duringdedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experiencebuilding flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with22 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 office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

20. The UAS may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s ATC Tower or airport 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’s ATC Tower or airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request.

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

22. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a 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 UAS with 25% battery power remaining.

25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identification (N- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.23 27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UAS must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

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

29. The UAS must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

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

31. Flight operations must be conducted at a safe distance 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 UAS and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are at an unsafe distance from the UAS, flight operations must cease immediately and/or;

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

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

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

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

.24

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

David A. Senechal 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 S900 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate t he DJI

S900 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vess els,

vehicles and structures.

Considering David A. Senechal’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautica l knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI S900 UAS, David A. Senechal submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship ski lls necessary for David A. Senechal’s specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those present ed herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

David A. Senechal will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI S900 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements or the DJI

S900 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operat e the DJI S900 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.25 Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes).

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensur e an equivalent level of safety during David A. Senechal’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained i n compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as

follows:

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be included in the 10 hours of multi-rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight-hour requirements in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience-building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UAS with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.26 Accordingly, David A. Senechal will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the DJI S900 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI S900 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every flight, David A. Senechal will ensure that the DJI S900 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating

documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations herein.

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specifi c to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those present ed herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJI S900 UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UAS to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with David A. Senechal’s operation of the DJI S900 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight

, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground

level.27 The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented here in (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI S900 UAS; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, David A. Senechal will ensure that he will safely operate the battery powered DJI S900 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 14 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI S900 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 S900 UAS iOSD provides visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage; and the Spektrum DX18 transmitter utiliz es a count-down timer with an aural alert to warn of an impending low battery level. At a critically low battery level, the DJI S900 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 charac teristics 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 circumstances28 similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exempti on Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, David A. Senechal submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requireme nts 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 David A. Senechal will use trained technicia ns to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents [i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, Spektrum DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintenance log]. Furthermore,

David A. Senechal will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJ I

S900 UAS.

Since the DJI S900 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, David A. Senechal 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 operating documents [i.e., DJI S900 User Manual, WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual, Spektrum DX18 User Manual, pre-flight checklist, and monthly maintenance log]are attached hereto as Exhibits A, B, C, D, and E, respectivel y.

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Davi d A. Senechal will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterati ons or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating documents.29 Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the DJI S900 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 a nd operating

limitations of the UAS are considered.

In consideration of David A. Senechal’s proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI S900 UAS, David A. Senechal 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 here in (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, David A. Senechal requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI S900 UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C .F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public

,30 or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance wi th 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 S900 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 e ngine, or propeller because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraf t 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 eng ine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivale nt 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 David A. Senechal’s intended operation of the DJI S900 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).31

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules From Which David A. Senechal Seeks Exemption:

David A. Senechal 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 David A. Senechal Seeks:

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

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support David A. Senechal’s Request.

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, David A. Senechal’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 nati onal security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without

airworthiness certification.

As discussed in detail above, David A. Senechal will operate the DJI S900 UAS safe ly in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security.32 CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, David A. Senechal seeks an exe mption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §

11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI S900 UA S commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States . By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the intere sts of the public, by allowing David A. Senechal to safely, efficiently, and economically o perate the DJI S900 UAS commercially

within the NAS.

WHEREFORE , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulatio ns and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, David A. Senechal 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), 91.1 21, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and per mit Leading Edge to operate the DJI S900 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over

certain areas of the United States.

Dated: April 14, 2015

Respectfully submitted,

_________________________ David A. Senechal P.O. Box 21396 Louisville KY 40221 Tel: (812) 786-6100

Appendices:

A – DJI S900 User Manual B – WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual C – Spektrum DX18 User Manual D – Preflight Checklist E – Monthly Maintenance Log33 APPENDIX – A

DJI S900 User Manual

Due to the size of the subject user manual, an electronic version is located at:

http://download.dji-innovations.com/downloads/s900/en/S900_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf34 APPENDIX – B

WooKong M (multi-rotor) User Manual

Due to the size of the subject user manual, an electronic version is located at:

http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/wkm/0823/WooKong_M_User_Manual_en.pdf35 APPENDIX – C

Spektrum DX18 User Manual

Due to the size of the subject user manual, an electronic version is located at:

http://www.horizonhobby.com/pdf/SPM18000-Manual.pdf36 Appendix D

DJI S900 UAS Preflight Checklist

Attach camera to gimbal, ensure secure and properly aligned.

Deploy and lock frame arms, ensure locked.

Unfold GPS antenna, ensure locked.

Visually inspect airframe, motors & props, wiring.

Install flight battery, connect negative (-) terminal.

Power on transmitter. Verify correct power setting. Validate aural start -up tones, verify DJI S900 configuration, set battery count-down timer to match installed battery, obs erve all switch positions, verify transmitter voltage.

Power on camera, verify operation.

Power up DJI S900 by connecting inflight battery positive (+) terminal.

Validate aural start-up tones. Observe gimbal operation, validate pitch control via transmitter control.

Verify LEDs on each motor arm, verify WooKong M LED status light operating norm ally.

Apply power to visual monitor. Verify proper channel reception and adequate receiver voltage, verify video and iOSD display normal.

For GPS operations, confirm reception of at least 6 satellites prior to take- off.

Start motors in idle briefly, then increase above 0%, validate Home Position rec orded in autopilot via WooKong M LED status light. Transmitter count-down timer begins when throttle increased above 0%.

Continue to increase throttle until take-off thrust is attained.37 APPENDIX – E

m o n t h :

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ( y e a r :

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ **UAS$#:$___________** Date(Issue( Discovered Date(Issue(

Addressed

Software(Updates

Airframe(

Engines

Propellers

Camera(Gimbal

Landing(Gear

Vibration(Dampening

Other: **M O**  **N T**  **H L**  **Y $**  **M A**  **I N**  **T E**  **N A**  **N C**  **E $** 

**L O**  **G**

Issue(Description(&(Maintenance(Conducted M a i n t e n a n c e ( P e r f o r m e d ( B y : ( ( ( Print(&(Sign