1

January 18, 2016

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

- 140 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: CDCS: Cameron Douglas Consulting Services

REQUEST AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a) (1), 91.409(a) (1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF DJI Phantom 3 PROFESSIONAL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYST EMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LA W 112

-95)

Cameron Douglas Owner CDCS / Cameron Douglas Consulting Services 430 Ranchette RD Monroe, Louisiana 71203 318

-376

-4576 Fax 318

-345

-2451 vdouglas@comcast.net or camerondouglas.cd@gmail.com2

**TA BLE OF CONTENTS**  **:** Page

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

....... ...... . ... . ..3

SUMMARY............................................................................................

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

INTRODUCTION AND INTERE STS 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 CDCS SEEKS EXEMPTION.............................................................................

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

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF CDCS SEEKS AND THE REASON CDCS SEEKS THE RELIEF...

............ ........................................... .................. .......... .. ... .. ..9

THE REASONS WH Y GRANTING CDCS’S REQUEST W OULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ..............................................................

........ .... . ... . 11

THE REASONS WH Y GRANTING THE EXEMPTION TO CDCS WO ULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY.........................

............. ........ . . ... 1 2

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER

... ... . ... 2 2

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS , OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT CDCS’S REQUEST...........

.................................................. ... ...... . . . .. 2 2

CONCLUSION..........................................................................................

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

APPENDICES

.................................................................................................. . . .. 2 33

**GLOSSA RY OF**  **ABBREVIA TIONS**  **:**

AGL Above Ground Level AOI Area of Interest ATC Air Traffic Control ATO Air Traffic Organization AV Aerial Vehicle CDCS Cameron Douglas Consulting Services CFR Code of Federal Regulations COA Certificate of Authorization FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAR Federal Aviation Regulation GCS Ground Control Station GPS Global Positioning System LOL Loss of Link NAS National Airspace System NOTAM Notice to Airman PIC Pilot in Command Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) SO Safety Observer SOP Standard Operating 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

**SUMMA RY**  **:**

CDCS seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a) (1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3 Professional ) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit CDCS to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of vehicle crash sites, construction sites, resi dential and commercial real estate, and civil landscapes over certain areas of the United States.

**INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER**  **:**

CDCS has over twenty years of crash investigation experience (which include motor vehicle crash investigation of various types ) with expertise and knowledge in video and crash photography training using advanced technologies and solutions. CDCS has worked on hundreds of investigations over the past 20 years in all types of locati ons with an excellent safety record. In the past we have supplied our client’s aerial video and photography using commercial aircraft. The objective of CDCS and our Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3 Professional ) aerial operations is to provide

a more affordable, high

-quality production system for a variety of governmental, commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting

• Motor vehicle crash site photography

• Evidence collection and recording

• Documenting location of markers • E conomic development • Civic landmarks • Private and governmental training

I have safely flown sm all RC electric quadcopters recreationally for approxim ately 2 years without incident.

**BA CKGROUND**  **:**

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 Professional , UAS CDCS seeks an exemption to operate DJI Phantom 3 system for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of approximately 2.8 lb. while having a diagonal dimension of 23.2”, a maximum speed of approximately 16.4’ fps and a maximum flying height of 400'. The DJI Phantom 3 is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors

The DJI Phantom 3 that will be operated by CDCS 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

.5

**BA SIS FOR PETITION**  **:**

Petitioner, CDCS , 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 Phantom 3 Professional

, UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requiremen ts 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, CDCS operation of DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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, CDCS 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.

CDCS submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. CDCS 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 ope rating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, CDCS will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS. Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by CDCS to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a unmanned aerial vehicle pilot license 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 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintai ning appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. CDCS seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled civil aircraft airworthiness , because the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, CDCS submits that they will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Mont hly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight.

CDCS also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121 , entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for6

active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with CDCS ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Addit ionally, CDCS seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. CDCS 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 23 minutes. Battery power indicators are also able to show exactly how much battery power is left, as well as how much time is needed to return safely back to point of takeoff, along with the DJI Phantom’s automatic “ return to home “ system programed into the (UAV)

. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, CDCS provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:

**A. Name**  **and Ad**  **dress of**  **the Petitioner:** The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is: Cameron Douglas Owner CDCS/ Cameron Douglas Consulting Services 430 Ranchette RD Monroe, Louisiana 71203 318

-376

-4576 Fax 318

-345

-2451 vdouglas@comcast.net or camerondouglas.cd@gmail.com

**Exemption: 1.**  **CDCS Seeks Exemption**  **from the**  **Requirements of**  **Section 61.113(a)**  **and (b).**  Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command

, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part: (a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft. (b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if

— (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employme nt; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

**2. CDCS**  **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. CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption from**  **the Requirements**  **of Section**  **91.121.** Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in part:7

(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 al ong 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. CDCS**  **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. CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption from**  **the Requirement**  **of Section**  **91.405(a).** Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: Each owner or o perator 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. CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption from**  **the Requirements**  **of Section**  **91.407(a) (1)**  Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration , subsection (a) (1), states the following: (a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless

-- (1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter [ .]

**7. CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption from**  **the Require**  **ments of**  **Sections 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 calend ar 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 accordance with part 21 of this chapter.8

**8. CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption from**  **the Requirements**  **of Sections**  **91.417(a) and**  **91.417(b).** Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records , subsections (a) and (b), state the following: (a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section: (1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 1 00

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

-- (i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and (ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and (iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service. (2) Records containing the following information: (i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each rotor. (ii) The current status of life

- limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance. (iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis. (iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained. (v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive i nvolves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required. (vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances (b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed: (1) The records specified in paragraph (a) (1) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 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 furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.9

**C. The Extent of**  **Relief CDCS**  **Seeks and**  **the Reason**  **CDCS Seeks**  **the Relief.**  **1. Extent of**  **Relief CDCS**  **Seeks and**  **the Reason**  **CDCS 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 unmanned aerial vehicle pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Se ction 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not ca rry passengers or property for compensation or hire. As set forth more fully below, CDCS submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either the DJI Phantom 3 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, CDCS submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to CDCS ’s bus iness; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

**2. Extent of**  **Relief CDCS**  **Seeks and**  **the Reason**  **CDCS 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 CDCS 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., Cameron Douglas Consulting Services (CDCS) Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). CDCS 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, CDCS 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) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft is in condition for safe flight , as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

**3. Extent of**  **Relief CDCS**  **Seeks and**  **the Reason**  **CDCS Seeks Relief**  **from Section**  **91.121.** Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight operations of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude i nformation concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), CDCS seeks the requested relief10

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 ful ly set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS are equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be establ ished 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 CDCS**  **Seeks and**  **the Reason**  **CDCS Seeks Relief**  **from Section**  **91.151(b).** Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel re quirements for flight in VFR conditions, is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 23 minutes. CDCS seeks the 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 CDCS proposes 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 CDCS ’s proposed operating limitat ions, ensure that CDCS 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 23 minutes.

**5. Exte nt**  **of Relief**  **CDCS Seeks**  **and the**  **Reason CDCS**  **Seeks Relief from**  **Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)**  **(1), 91.409(a) (1) & (a)**  **(2), An**  **d 91.417(a) & (b).** Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a) (1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with a n airworthiness certificate, CDCS requests relief from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA S ection 333 for operation withou t an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, CDCS will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the CDCS Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, CDCS will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.11

**D. The Reasons Why**

**Granting CDCS**  **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 CDCS to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of Crash sites, construction sites, real estate, events and civic 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 significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of CDCS 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 Phantom 3 UAS is battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and

economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of ma nned 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 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.** 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 photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS produce 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 are 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 2.8 pounds at their maximum gross weight with diagonal dimension of 23.2 inches, and with no fuel on b oard), 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 (weighing12

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 The Economy**

**.** In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are also an economica l 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, like Cameron Douglas Consulting Services (CDCS) , 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 such as CDCS , 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 commercial use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and d evelopment in order to remain competitive both in the United States and abroad.

**4. There A re No Privacy**  **Issues.** Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, CDCS ’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 with operating documents (i.e., the CDCS Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Mainten ance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

**E. The Reasons Why**

**Granting the**  **Exemption Would Not A dv** **ersely A**  **ffect Safety**
**, Or**  **How The Exemption Would Provide A Lev** **el Of Safety**

**A t Least Equal To That**  **Provided By** 

**The Rule From Which CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption.**

**1. Reasons Why the**  **DJI Phantom 3 UA S Me** **et the**  **Conditions of**  **the FAA**  **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, CDCS ’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 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 forth13

requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part: (a) 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).(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, CDCS submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can operate 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 Demonstrate Its Safe**  **Characteristics.** The DJI Phantom 3 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 Phantom 3 UA** **S.** The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set fort h by the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A. **ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UA S Global Positioning Modes Enable**  **the UA** **S to**  **Remain Within A** 

**Defined Operational A rea.**  The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning fl ight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided at pages 11 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual attached hereto as Appendix A. **iii. The DJI Phantom 3 UA S A** **re Designed For A utomatic Return**  **to Home Po**  **int Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.**  Wh en the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown.14

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth at pages 12 through 14 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, the web address is referred hereto as Appendix A. **iv. The DJI Phantom 3 GCS and**  **Its Operation.** A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 23 through 29 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual. DJI Phantom 3 User Manual web address is attached 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.** CDCS crash reconstruction staff will be the only persons to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist him at all times during fl ight time. **c. Flights of**  **DJI Phantom 3 UA S Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific**  **Operating Limitations.**  In seeking this exemption, CDCS 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 l imitations. 1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less t han 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 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 opera tions 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 400 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures spec ified in the operating documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 5. The UAS must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA

- issued airman medical certificate. 6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not p7. All operations must 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 SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight o perations. 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 a ny other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments. 9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during15

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 condition s 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 que stions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents. 10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records. 11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test fl ight. 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 releva nt sections of the operating documents. 13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements permitted. 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 aircraf t record of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections. 17. The PIC must possess a UAV pilot certificate and at least a current third

-class medical certificate. 18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours must be16

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 exemptio n. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14C.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)

. Flight at night is not expected however i f flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA

- publ ished aeronautical chart unless approved by the FAA personnel in the control tower, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. 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 ret urn to a predetermined 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 d ocuments. 24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining. 25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of 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 24 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 requi rements. 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. 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 requireme nts. 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 UA 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.17

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA , flight operations must cease immediately and/or; b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and; c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a). 32. All ope rations 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

con ducted. 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 m ust be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB W eb site: www.ntsb.gov

. **2. Reasons Why an**  **Exemption from**  **the Requirements**  **of Section 61.113(a)**  **and (b)**  **Would Not Ad**  **versely A**  **ffect Safety**

**.** CDCS 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 fligh t

- 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 maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Considering CDCS’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forth

-above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and the ai rmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, CDCS submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for CDCS ’s specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos.18

11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109 , 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

CDCS 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 an d 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 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 expe rience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during CDCS ’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicab le 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 mod el 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 c urrency 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 fi nds 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 req uired 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 1 8

. Accordingly, CDCS will ensure safe operati ons by not allowing any PIC 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 operate the DJI Phantom 319

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 Ad**  **versely**

**A ffect Safety** 

**.** The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every flight, CDCS 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. Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

**4. Reasons Why an**  **Exemption from**  **the Requirements**  **of Section 91.121 Would**  **Not Ad**  **versely**

**A ffect Safety** 

**.** The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with CDCS’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 generate d by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground level. The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157 , 11158 , 11159, 11160, 11161.

**5. Reasons Why an**  **Exemption from**  **the Req**  **uirements of**  **Section 91.151(b) Would Not**  **Ad versely** 

**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 on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, CDCS will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes. Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 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. Section20

91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the 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 prescribe d 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. 881 1, 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**  **Ad versely**  **Af**

**fect Safety**

**.** In seeking this exemption, CDCS submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.4 07(a) (1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because CDCS will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating d ocuments (i.e., CDCS Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, CDCS will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, CDCS 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 Manuals

are attached hereto as Appendix A and B; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Appendix C. Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Cameron Douglas Consulting Services (CDCS ) will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preve ntive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating documents. Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), becaus e all maintenance 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), 9 1.407(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 CDCS ’s proposed operating limitations, the21

op erating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, CDCS submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a) (1) and (a) (2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080,11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160,11161).

**7. The FAA**

**Ma y**  **Prescribe A ny** 

**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, CDCS requests 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 for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photogra phy 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 fu rther, 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 condition s 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 because of a novel or u nusual 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, Su bpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections61.113(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).22

**• A Summary**  **that can**  **be published**  **in the Federal Register, stating: The**  **Rules from**  **Which CDCS**  **Seeks Exemption:** CDCS 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**  **for CDCS:**  This exemption will permit CDCS 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 Information, Views,**  **or Ar** **guments A vailable To Support**  **CDCS’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 s uch, CDCS ’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, CDCS will operate the 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.23

**CONCLUSION :**  As set forth herein, CDCS seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing CDCS 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, Sect ion 333, CDCS 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 Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and p hotography over certain areas of the United States.

Dated: September 12 , 2015 Respectfully submitted, Cameron Douglas Owner Cameron Douglas Consulting Services 430 Ranchette RD Monroe, Louisiana 71203 318

-376

-4576 Fax 318

-345

-2451 vdouglas@comcast.net / camerondouglas.cd@gmail.com

Appendices: A

– Link to DJI Phantom 3 Manual: C ut and paste the link below in your browser http://www.dji.com/support