August 26, 2015

Exemption No. 12620 Regulatory Docket No. FAA

− 20 15

− 2469

Mr. Nate Wyeth

486 N orthwest Saginaw Ave nue Bend, OR 97701

Dear Mr. Wyeth :

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 May 27, 2015 , you petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for an exemption

. The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned ai rcraft system (UAS) to

conduct aerial vid eo and photography of construction sites, real estate, and landscape

.

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 Phantom 3

.

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 Section 333. Therefore, the FAA

finds that relief from 14 CFR part 21

, C ertification procedures for products and part s,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 Astraeus Aerial ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 11109 to Clayco, Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA

− 20 14

− 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 peti tioner and carrying no passengers or crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater proportions, 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 i nterest.

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 present; 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. Nate Wyeth is granted an exempti on 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. Nate Wyeth 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 this grant of exemption are limited to the DJI Phantom 3 when weighing less than 55 pounds in cluding 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 maximu m 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 must 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 airman 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 maint ains 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 transfer his or her designation fo r 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 and limitations stated in thi s 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 between the conditions and

limita tions 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 operating documents. The ope rator 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

operator must also present up dated 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 the 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 alterations that affect the UAS op eration 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 conducted by a PIC with a VO and mu st 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 i s 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 discrepancies, e.g.

, inoperable comp onents, 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 certifi cate.

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 emergency 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 operator’s PICs and VOs5

(traini ng, p roficiency, 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 ma y 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 operate the UA with appropriate distanc e 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). Flights under special visual flight r ules (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 the airport management must be mad e 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 emergencies.

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 reserve power recommended by the manu facturer 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 amended COA if it intends to conduct

op erations 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 identification (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 and 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 nonpartici pating 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 r emain 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 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 trainees 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 aut horized representative. Permission 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 opera tional 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) with 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 cer tificate number of UAS PICs involved 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 availa ble 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

es sential to accomplish the operation.

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 spe cified 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.

This exemption terminates on August 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, DC

Regulatory Docket No.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: Nate Wyeth

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF

T ITLE 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 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

PURSUANT TO SECTI ON 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112

- 95)

Submitted on May 27

, 2015

Nate Wyeth 486 NW Saginaw Ave Bend, OR 97701 Tel: (541) 728

- 32982 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS.

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

SUMMARY.

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

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER

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

BACKGROUND

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

BASIS FOR PETITION.

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

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER

................................ ............................ 7

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH NATE WYETH

SEEKS EX EMPTION.

................................ ................................ ............................. 8

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF NATE WYETH SEEKS AND THE REASON NATE

WYETH SEEKS THE RELIEF..............

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

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING NATE WYETH’S REQUEST WOULD BE

IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST

......... ................................ ................................ ..... 15

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT

ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY

................................ ................................ ......... 19

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER.

.... 34

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT NATE WYETH’S REQUEST...

........................... 34

CONCLUSION

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

AGL Above Ground Lev el

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

G PS 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

Nate Wyeth 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

Nate Wyeth to operat e an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose

of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, and landscape

over certain areas of the United States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Nate Wyeth pr ovides his clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced

technologies and solutions to increase efficiency, productivity and effectiveness. Nate

Wyeth is experienced in all aspects of aerial video and photography. The objective of Nate

Wyeth’s aerial vi deo and photography operations is to provide low cost, high quality

imaging for a variety of commercial and residential customers.

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 UAS

Nate Wyeth seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensati on or hire

within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned

Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart

phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of approximate ly 1,280

grams, while having a diagonal length, including propellers, of 590mm, height of 8 inches,

and a maximum speed of approximately 29 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 is equipped with

four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motor s.

The DJI Phantom 3 UA that will be operated by Nate Wyeth will be registered in5 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, Nate Wyeth, 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 Unmann ed Aircraft Systems

, hereby

petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in the

National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R

§§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a),

9 1.407(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, Nate Wyeth’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3

UA meets the conditions o f FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require an

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Accordingly,

Nate Wyeth 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.

Nate Wyeth submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of

safety will be ensured. Nate Wyeth will use experienced personnel or technicians to

perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the

methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the Nate

Wyeth Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3

Instruction Manual).6 Furthermore, Nate Wyeth will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI

Phantom 3 UA

.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot

privileges and limitations: Pi lot in command , is requested by Nate Wyeth to the extent

necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level

certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting

minimum flight

- hour 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.

Nate Wyeth seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness

,

because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance

with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Nate Wyeth submits that it will ensu re that the

DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that

the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the Nate Wyeth Aerial

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and

that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight.

Nate Wyeth also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121,

entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJI Phantom 3 UA will not have a typical barometric

altimeter onboard. However , altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 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 alt itude information, combined with Nate Wyeth’s

operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL,7 will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121.

Additionally, Nate Wyeth seeks an exemption from the require ments of Section

91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. Nate Wyeth submits

that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UA 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 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming

normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.8 In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Nate Wyeth 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:

Nate Wyeth

486 NW Saginaw Ave Bend, Oregon 97701 Tel: (541) 728

- 32 98

Email : natewyeth@gmail.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemption.

1. Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pil ot 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 t hat person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft.

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if

—

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

2. Nate Wyeth 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 m ay operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.9 3. Nate Wyeth 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 a ircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set,
when operating

--

(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to

--

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and

within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equippe d with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure.

4. Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR con ditions

, 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. Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required , subsection (a), states the following:

Each owner or operator of an airc raft

—

(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[.]10 6. Nate Wyeth 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 h as 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. Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemption From The Requirements 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 calendar months, it has had

--

(1) An ann ual 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 ch apter.

8. Nate Wyeth 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, ea ch 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 req uired 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

--11 (i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of

t he 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 ai rframe, 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 overhaul ed 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 airw orthiness 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 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 prescribe d:

(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

a nd 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 serv ice.12 C. The Extent Of Relief Nate Wyeth Seeks And The Reason Nate Wyeth Seeks The

Relief.

1. Extent Of Relief Nate Wyeth Seeks And The Reason Nate Wyeth 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, as well as a current and valid airman medical

certificate, and who has met certain flight

- hour and curren cy 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 aircra ft 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, Nate Wyeth submits th at an equivalent level of

safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3

UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, demonstrating

that the PIC is able to safely operate either the DJI P hantom 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, Nate Wyet h submits that all flights of the DJI 3 UAS , conducted by the

PIC pursuant to the grant of this p etition: (1) will be incidental to Nate Wyeth’s business;

and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.13 2. Extent Of Relief Nate Wyeth Seeks And The Reason Nate Wyeth 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 Nate Wyeth 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., the Nate Wyeth Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly

Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual).

Nate Wyeth seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UA do es not

require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Therefore, Nate Wyeth will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in airworthy condition

based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i .e., the Nate Wyeth Aerial

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual)

prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in condition for safe flight,

as stated in the conditions and limitations below

.

3. Extent Of Relief Nate Wyeth Seeks And The Reason Nate Wyeth 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 pressu re 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 information concerning UAS operations14 be reporte d to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Nate Wyeth

seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UA’s altimeter may be set on the

ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before

e ach flight.

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR

91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and

limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will

be maintained since the DJI Phantom 3 UA 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 a ltitude information of the

UA on the heads

- up display of the GCS.

4. Extent Of Relief Nate Wyeth Seeks And The Reason Nate Wyeth Seeks

Relief From Section 91.151(b).

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR

conditions, is re quested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI

Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under

visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended

la nding and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. Nate

Wyeth seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b),

the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA will severely constrain

the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that Nate Wyeth proposes

to conduct pursuant to this Petition.15 Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3

UAS , the DJI Phantom 3 ope rating documents, and Nate Wyeth’s proposed operating

limitations, ensure that Nate Wyeth will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3

UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight

rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of

13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to

fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.

5. Extent Of Relief Nate Wyeth Seeks And The Reason Nate Wyeth Seeks

Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 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 an airworthiness certificate, Nate Wyeth requests relief from

the se Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require airworthiness certificates.

As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet s the conditions of FMRA

Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Nate Wyeth

will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance

on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating

documents (i.e., the Nate Wyeth Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintena nce Log,

and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Nate Wyeth will document and

maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

.

D. The Reasons Why Granting Nate Wyeth’s Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Benef it The Public As A Whole.16 Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Nate

Wyeth to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of

construction sites, real estate, and landscape over certain ar eas 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

Nate Wyeth’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 will be realized without

implicating any privacy issues.

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

The DJI Phantom 3 UA is battery powered and serve s as a safe, efficient, and

economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally util ized to obtain aerial imagery.

By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an

exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of manned

aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as w ell 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 UA do es not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of

manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would result in fewer

aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure

,

arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

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

Phantom 3 UASs
Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

, instead of manned

aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by d rastically reducing the levels of air and noise

pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations.17 By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS produce s no air

pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class,

six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video

and photography, while burning approximately 20

- 30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation

fuel. The DJI Ph antom 3 UA , 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 aeria l 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 cr ew members located onboard the aircraft, the

DJI Phantom 3 UAs (weighing approximately 2.8 pounds at maximum gross weight with

a maximum diagonal length of 1.9 feet , and with no fuel on board), has less physical

potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared

to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately

6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel

capacity of 180 gallons).18 3. Perf orming Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI

Phantom 3 Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is also an

economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As

such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UA will allow United States based businesses , like

Nate Wyeth ’s , to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy.

Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protecti on

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

, businesses such as Nate Wyeth ’s , ca n

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 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, Nate Wyeth’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 Nate Wyeth Aerial Operations Manual,19 Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires

property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement noti fication, 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 Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Sa fety At Least Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 UA 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 associated

with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Nate Wyeth’s operation of the DJI Phantom

3 UAS meet S the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness

certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Par t 21, Subpart H.

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness

certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a

hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to nationa l 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 determ ine 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.20 (b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircra ft 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

popu lated 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

airworthine ss 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, Nate Wyeth submits that th e 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 UAS Demonstrate s Its

Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the

public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed,

and operational capability

.

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS

.

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is set forth by the DJI

Phantom 3 Specifications and Data Sheet.21 ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation

Modes Enable The UAS To Rem ain Within A Defined Operational

Area.

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous

flight modes

. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Is Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point

Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Naviga tion.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UA will remain stationary, in

flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UA does not reacquire

control link data from the GCS, the U s will assume that the Control Link is lo st and the UA

will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the

takeoff position and shutdown.

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Obs erver.

Nate Wyeth will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid

airman medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

.

Additionally, a safety observer will assist all pilots during flight time.

c. Fli ghts Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, Nate Wyeth proposes to commercially operate DJI

Phantom 3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over

certai n 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 UASs weighing less than 55 pound s maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft System . 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 p urpose of aerial video and photography.

3. The UA may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.22 4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operati ng 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 permitted.

7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (S O). 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 operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents.

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyo nd 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 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 cont ained 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 determin es 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 proh ibited 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

do cumented in the aircraft records.23 11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts t he 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 do cuments.

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 accord ance 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 a uthorized person returning the

UAS to service.

15. Each UASs 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 discrepancie s discovered between inspections.

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

- class medical certificate.

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the 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 struct ures. 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

conducte d 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 nonparticipa nts 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. §

19.1. 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 UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA

- published aeronau tical chart unless a letter of24 agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request.

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

PIC.

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre

determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents.

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

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining.

25. The operator 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 req uirements.

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 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 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.

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 f eet from all nonparticipating25 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 mus t 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 Tra nsportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov

.

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

Nate Wye th submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section

61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI

Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and

currency require ments, 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 Nate W yeth’s proposed area of operations, and the operating

limitations set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical26 knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No.

11062); and the airmanship skills neces sary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

,

Nate Wyeth submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially

certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Nate Wyeth’s

specific proposed flight operatio ns.

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. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 1111 2,

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161 , etc. ).

Nate Wyeth 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 Nate Wyeth’s proposed operations. The Administrator has27 held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with

ap plicable 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 l ogged 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 a nd 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 fin ds 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 t he required flight time. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate

distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, Nate Wyeth will ensur e safe operations 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 3 1 UAS in a manner consistent wit h 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 equiva lent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained

because prior to every flight, Nate Wyeth will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an

airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and as28 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, 1106 5, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112,

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161 , etc. ).

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 Phantom 3 UA 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 monito ring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude

information, combined with Nate Wyeth’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UA within

visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to

Section 91.121. The altitude in formation will be generated by GPS equipment installed

onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically

established by the UASs 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 , etc. ).

5. Reason s 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 specification s of the DJI

Phantom 3 UAS ; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location29 of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Nate Wyeth will ensure that it will safely

operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in VFR conditions,

with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of

intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5

minutes.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the tech nical specifications of the 3UAS ; 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 t he DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide s audible and visual

warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UA experiences low battery voltage, the first

warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at

approximately 10% remaining battery power. A t 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 characteristic s 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 r elief

from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to

those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063,

11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 111 53, 11156,

11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161 , etc. ).

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.30 In seeking this exemption, Nate Wyeth submits that the equivalent level of safety

with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements

established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b)

will be met because Nate Wyeth will use trained te chnicians to perform maintenance,

alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and

practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the Nate Wyeth Aerial Operations

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore,

Nate Wyeth will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3

UAS

.

Since the DJI Phantom 3 will be inspected as prescribed by the operating

documents, Nate Wyeth will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by

Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2).

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Nate Wyeth

will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenance

on t he UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating

documents.

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety

established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of th e

DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be

documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)( 1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is

not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the

UAS are considered.31 In consideration of Nate Wyeth’s proposed operating limitations, the operating

document s, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS , Nate Wyeth 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

previous ly 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, 111 59, 11160, 11161 , etc. ).

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, Nate Wyeth32 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 photog raphy over certain areas of the United States for

compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering

whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a

threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate

without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be

established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS.

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditi ons 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. Secti on 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 unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards f or 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. § 21.16.33 Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FA A

may prescribe special conditions for Nate Wyeth’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom

3 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to

establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H,

and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a),

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules From Which Nate Wyeth Seeks Exemp tion:

Nate Wyeth 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 Nate Wyeth Seek s:

This exemption will permit Nate Wyeth 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 Availab le To Support Nate Wyeth’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, Nate W yeth’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.34 As discussed in detail above, Nate Wyeth will operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

safely in the NAS, withou t creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or

otherwise pose a threat to national security.

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, Nate Wyeth seeks an exemption pursuant to 14

C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act o f 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 Petiti on, 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 Nate

Wyeth to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phanto m 3 UAS

commercially within the NAS.

WHEREFORE

, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Nate Wyeth 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 Nate Wyeth to operate the DJI

Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting a erial video and photography

over certain areas of the United States.35 Dated: May 27

, 2015
Respectfully submitted,

Nate Wyeth

/s/ Nathaniel C. Wyeth

Nathaniel C. Wyeth 486 NW Saginaw Ave Bend, OR 97701 Tel: (541 ) 728

- 3298