1

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC 

Regulatory Docket No. _______________ 

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: 

RYU ENGINEERING AND COMPANY, PLLC. 

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF 

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS 

SECTIONS 91.9(b), 91.203(a), 91.203(b), 45.23(b) AND 21.185 

CONCERNING OPERATION OF AN UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM 

OVER THE STATE OF IDAHO 

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE 

FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 

Submitted on June 1, 2015 

Jae H. Ryu 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC. 

POBOX 170842 

Boise, Idaho 83716 

Tel: (208) 724-0531 

Fax: (208) 473-5120 

Petitioner 
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Contents 

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

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

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER .............................. 5 

BACKGROUND ....................................................................................................... 5 

BASIS FOR PETITION ............................................................................................ 6 

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner. ........................................................... 7 

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which REC Seeks Exemption. .... 7 

C. The Extent Of Relief REC Seeks And The Reason REC Seeks The Relief. ..... 9 

D. The Reasons Why Granting REC’s Request Would Be In The Public 

Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As a Whole. ........................ 12 

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect 

Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least 

Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which REC Seeks Exemption. ...... 16 

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The 

Rules From Which REC Seeks Exemption: ......................................................... 26 

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support 

REC’s Request. ..................................................................................................... 26 

CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................ 28 
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GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS 

AGL Above Ground Level 

ATC Air Traffic Control 

COA Certificate of Authorization 

FAA Federal Aviation Administration 

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation 

NAS National Airspace System 

Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333 

SMS Safety Management System 

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System 

VFR Visual Flight Rules 

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions 
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SUMMARY 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC, seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 

C.F.R. §§91.9(b), 91.203(a), 91.203(b), 45.23(b) and 21.185 to operate an Unmanned 

Aircraft System (UAS) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform 

Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit Ryu Engineering and Company, 

PLLC, to operate a quadcopter UAS for agricultural applications, such as drought 

monitoring, pest control, and other crop stress monitoring over areas of the State of 

Idaho, while keeping the documents required by the regulations at the ground control 

station and immediately accessible to the pilot in command. Furthermore, the exemption 

will relieve Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC, from the airworthiness certificate 

standards and the requirement to have a certificate of airworthiness issued for its UAS. 

This exemption will also permit any required markings concerning the operational status 

of the UAS to be displayed on the fuselage of the unmanned aircraft. 

 
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INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC. (hereinafter referred to as “REC”) is a startup 

consulting firm providing drought monitoring and map services in the agricultural industries and 

the water survey. REC has recently acquired a DJI Phantom II Unmanned Aircraft System 

(hereinafter referred to as the “DJI Phantom II UAS”). As set forth in this Petition, REC seeks 

to operate its DJI Phantom II UAS for the special purpose of drought monitoring for western 

agriculture through aerial videography, video documentation, and image production and analysis. 

BACKGROUND 

About DJI Phantom II UAS: Ryu Engineering and Company (REC) seeks an 

exemption to operate a DJI Phantom II UAS for agricultural applications, including drought 

monitoring, pest control, and other crop stress monitoring driven by water shortage, insect 

outbreak, and nutrient deficiency. The specification of DJI Phantom II UAS includes: 1) an 

unmanned quad-rotor aircraft and a transportable ground station, 2) a maximum gross weight of 

approximately 4.4 pounds (2000 grams), while having a diagonal length of 13.7 inches (350mm), 

3) equipped with four independent electric motors turning fixed pitch rotors powered by a single 

Lithium Polymer battery. 

Fig. 1: The DJI Phantom II UAS 
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The DJI Phantom II UAS is a common, commercially available, model of remote multirotor aircraft. It is currently operating safely within the National Airspace System (NAS) 

pursuant to Advisory Circular 9157, June 9, 1981. The DJI Phantom family of aircraft has been 

operating worldwide since 2006. 

BASIS FOR PETITION 

Petitioner, Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC, pursuant to the provisions of the 

Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 

2012, Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby petitions the 

Administrator for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.9(b), 91.203(a), 

91.203(b), 45.23(b), as well as the restricted category airworthiness certification standards 

specified in 14 C.F.R. § 21.185, including the requirement to have a certificate of airworthiness 

as contemplated by 14 C.F.R. Part 21. 

In the alternative, and in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulation (“FAR”) Section 

21.16, entitled Special Conditions (14 C.F.R. § 21.16) as follows: 

“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 14 CFR 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” 

REC respectfully requests that the Administrator prescribe special conditions for the 

intended operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS that contain such safety standards as the 

Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the 

restricted category airworthiness certification standards specified in 14 C.F.R. § 21.185. In the 

alternative, REC seeks an exemption from the requirement to have a certificate of airworthiness 
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issued for its DJI Phantom II UAS, as otherwise contemplated by 14 C.F.R. Part 21. 

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, REC provides the following information in support 

of its petition for exemption: 

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner. 

The name and mailing address of the Petitioner is: 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC 

POBOX 170842 

Boise, Idaho 83716 

The point of contact for this Petition and specific contact information is as 

follows: 

Jae Ryu 

UAS Project Manager 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC 

 POBOX 170842 

 Boise, Idaho 83716 

 Tel: (208) 724-0531 

 Fax: (208) 473-5120 

 Email: help@ryu-engineering.com

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

1. REC Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.9(b). 

REC seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b). Section 91.9 entitled Civil 

aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard requirements, subsection (b) states the following: 

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

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

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

Rotorcraft Flight Manual or the manual provided for in § 121.141(b); and 

(2) For which an Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual is not required by § 21.5 of this 

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

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

combination thereof. 
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2. REC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.203(a) and 

91.203(b). 

REC seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.203(a) and (b). Section 91.203 entitled 

Civil aircraft: Certifications required, subsections (a) and (b) state the following: 

(a) Except as provided in § 91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has 

within it the following: 

(1) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. Each U.S. airworthiness 

certificate used to comply with this subparagraph (except a special flight permit, a copy 

of the applicable operations specifications issued under § 21.197(c) of this chapter, 

appropriate sections of the air carrier manual required by parts 121 and 135 of this 

chapter containing that portion of the operations specifications issued under § 21.197(c), 

or an authorization under § 91.611) must have on it the registration number assigned to 

the aircraft under part 47 of this chapter. However, the airworthiness certificate need not 

have on it an assigned special identification number before 10 days after that number is 

first affixed to the aircraft. A revised airworthiness certificate having on it an assigned 

special identification number, that has been affixed to an aircraft, may only be obtained 

upon application to an FAA Flight Standards district office. 

(2) An effective U.S. registration certificate issued to its owner or, for operation within 

the United States, the second copy of the Aircraft registration Application as provided for 

in § 47.31(c), or a registration certification issued under the laws of a foreign country. 

(b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by 

paragraph (a) of this section or a special flight authorization issued under § 91.715 is 

displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is legible to passengers or crew. 

3. REC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 45.23(b). 

REC seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 45.23(b). Section 45.23 entitled Display of 

marks; general, subsection (b), states the following: 

(b) When marks include only the Roman capital letter "N" and the registration number is 

displayed on limited, restricted or light-sport category aircraft or experimental or 

provisionally certificated aircraft, the operator must also display on that aircraft near 

each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station, in letters not less than 2 inches nor 

more than 6 inches high, the words "limited," "restricted," "light-sport," "experimental," 

or "provisional," as applicable. 

4. REC Requests Relief To Exempt The DJI Phantom II UAS From The 

Restricted Category Airworthiness Certification Standards Specified In 14 C.F.R. 
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§21.185. 

In accordance with the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, and 

14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, REC seeks to exempt the DJI Phantom II UAS 

from the restricted category airworthiness certification specified in 14 C.F.R. § 21.185, or the 

requirement to have a certificate of airworthiness issued, as contemplated by 14 C.F.R. Part 

21. Section 21.185 entitled Issue of airworthiness certificates for restricted category aircraft, 

states the following, in part: 

(a) Aircraft manufactured under a production certificate or type certificate. An 

applicant for the original issue of a restricted category airworthiness certificate for an 

aircraft type certificated in the restricted category, that was not previously type 

certificated in any other category, must comply with the appropriate provisions of § 

21.183. 

C. The Extent Of Relief REC Seeks And The Reason REC Seeks The Relief. 

1. Extent Of Relief REC Seeks And The Reason REC Seeks Relief From 

Section 91.9(b). 

Relief is requested because the DJI Phantom II UAS weighs approximately 4.4 pounds 

(2000 grams) at its maximum gross weight and cannot carry the Airplane Flight Manual (See 

Exhibit A) onboard. Furthermore, since the DJI Phantom II UAS is unmanned, the aircrew 

member is located at a ground control station. As such, REC proposes the following conditions 

and limitations to its request for exemption from Section 91.9(b): 

The Airplane Flight Manual must be kept at the ground control station, where it is 

immediately available for reference by the aircrew member (pilot in command) of the DJI 

Phantom II UAS any time the unmanned aircraft is operating. 

The Airplane Flight Manual must be made available within 10 days to any FAA, U.S. 

Department of Defense, or law enforcement official upon request. 

2. The Extent Of Relief REC Seeks And The Reason REC Seeks Relief From 

Section 91.203(a) and (b). 
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REC requests relief from the requirement of Section 91.203(a) (i.e., that an appropriate 

and current airworthiness certificate and an effective U.S. registration certificate be carried 

within the aircraft), and further, requests relief from the requirement of Section 91.203(b) (i.e., 

that the airworthiness certificate be displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is legible 

to passengers or crew). As the DJI Phantom II UAS is unmanned, it has no cabin, cockpit, 

pilot station, or entrances thereto. Therefore, the aircrew member is located at a ground control 

station and no passengers are carried at any time. As such, REC proposes the following 

conditions and limitations to its request for exemption from Sections 91.203(a) and (b): 

The documents required by Sections 91.203(a) and (b) must be kept at the ground 

control station, where it is immediately available to the aircrew member (pilot in 

command) of the DJI Phantom II UAS any time the unmanned aircraft is operating. 

The documents required by 91.203(a) and (b) must be made available within 10 days 

to any FAA, U.S. Department of Defense, or law enforcement official upon request. 

3. The Extent of Relief REC Seeks And The Reason REC Seeks Relief From 

14 C.F.R. § 45.23(b). 

REC requests relief from the requirement of Section 45.23(b), if applicable, that the word 

“Restricted” be displayed on the DJI Phantom II UAS near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or 

pilot station. As the DJI Phantom II UAS is unmanned, it has no cabin, cockpit, pilot station, or 

entrances thereto. REC proposes that, if required, the word “Restricted” be displayed in letters 

two (2) inches high, horizontally on both sides of the fuselage between the outrunner arms on all 

sides of the DJI Phantom II UAS. 

4. The Extent Of Relief REC Seeks And The Reason REC Seeks Relief From 14 

C.F.R. § 21.185. 

REC seeks relief from the airworthiness certificate requirements of the Federal Aviation 

Regulations and proposes to commercially operate the DJI Phantom II UAS, without an 

airworthiness certificate, for the special purpose of conducting aerial videography services over 
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the State of Idaho. REC seeks relief from the airworthiness certificate requirements of 14 C.F.R. 

§ 21.185 to the extent that the DJI Phantom II UAS, which has not yet been type certificated by 

the FAA, may be operated as if it were a restricted category aircraft for a single, defined, special 

purpose operation (i.e., aerial videography for drought monitoring). 

Pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333 (“Section 

333”), REC seeks relief from the airworthiness certificate requirements of the FAR because 

operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS will not create a hazard to users of the NAS, or the 

public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a 

hazard to users of the NAS or the public or pose a threat to national security. Further, 

Section 333 provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness 

certification. Specifically, Section 333 states the following, in part: 

(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). 

 As set forth below, numerous factors, including the proven safe operational 

history of the DJI Phantom II UAS in the NAS, as well as the specific parameters of 

REC’s intended operation pursuant to this exemption, demonstrate that the DJI Phantom 

II UAS has in the past, and will continue in the future, to operate safely in the NAS 

without creating a hazard to other aircraft or people on the ground. Accordingly, the 

FAA may approve operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS, without an airworthiness 
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certificate, by setting forth specific operating limitations to ensure a level of safety 

equivalent to what would be provided by airworthiness certification. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting REC’s Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, 

How It Would Benefit The Public As a Whole. 

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing REC to safely, 

efficiently, and economically perform drought monitoring and image services to mitigate drought 

impacts over the State of Idaho in support of government entities, water infrastructure entities, 

and the broad agricultural industry. Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom II UAS will decrease 

congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the regional 

economy. Notably, the benefits of the proposed operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS will be 

realized without implicating any privacy issues due to large open spaces in agricultural 

farmlands. 

1. The Public Will Benefit From Drought Monitoring via Aerial Videography and 

Image Processes 

REC submits this Petition to perform drought monitoring throughout the State of 

Idaho, in support of government entities, water infrastructure entities, and the broad 

agricultural industry. The DJI Phantom II UAS will provide safe, efficient, and economical 

aerial videography operations and image processes as part of drought monitoring and water 

management exercises to further each of these fields, all of which are critical to the well-being 

of the general public in the State of Idaho. Note that the State of Idaho is ranked 1st in the 

nation for production of potatoes, but water resources is critical to produce much of Idaho’s 

agricultural products, including potatoes, wheat, barley and other grains, and dairies, feedlots, 

and aquaculture. 
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Therefore, the specific operations that REC will perform with the DJI Phantom II UAS 

demonstrate how the requested exemption will directly benefit the above-referenced industries 

and the public. In water infrastructure industry, the DJI Phantom II UAS will be also used to aid 

in facility inspections (e.g., dam safety), surveying and planning new worksites along with 

environmental stewardship, and performing right of way analysis. The DJI Phantom II UAS 

can carry various cameras for day inspection, can be equipped with additional sensors such as 

hyperspectral cameras and are programmable to fly specific routes regularly using geocaching. 

The DJI Phantom II UAS can inspect larger areas, in different ways, in less time and at lower 

costs. In addition, the more frequent regular inspections facilitate faster problem recognition, 

resulting in fewer negative externalities. In the broad agricultural industry, the DJI Phantom II 

UAS will be used to gather video footage not otherwise attainable by traditional means in higher 

spatial resolutions. The advantage of unmanned systems is that they provide overviews which 

normally require several cameras, can enter narrow and confined spaces (e.g., closer look for 

damaged crop field due to insect outbreak) and produce little noise. The DJI Phantom II UAS 

provides a great alternative to manned aerial vehicle such as helicopters in that they can provide 

images from similar altitudes, with gyro stabilized cameras and modular platforms at a fraction 

of the cost. This solution can dramatically increase the applicability, improve the quality and 

decrease the costs of aerial videography for drought monitoring and other agricultural 

applications, such as pest control, and crop stress monitoring, thereby maximizing net revenue by 

minimizing costs in the broad agricultural industry in the United States beyond Idaho. 

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

The DJI Phantom II UAS is a battery powered UAS that serves 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 videography, an exemption 

allowing the use of a DJI Phantom II UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, 
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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 II UAS 

does not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting 

aerial survey missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by ATC facilities during 

the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations. 

3. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI Phantom II 

UAS. 

Conducting drought monitoring via aerial videography and image processes with the DJI 

Phantom II UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing 

the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial videography flight operations. 

By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom II UAS produces no air pollution, and 

is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to piston or turbine powered rotorcraft. 

The DJI Phantom II UAS, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial videography, also eliminates 

noise pollution as its battery powered electric motors are barely audible during the take-off phase, 

and cannot be heard when operating more than 100 feet above ground level. 

By using the DJI Phantom II UAS to perform aerial videography, 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 

aircrew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom II UAS (weighing approximately 

4.4pounds (2000 grams) at its maximum gross weight with a diagonal length of 13.7 inches 

(350mm), 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 

aerial videography (weighing approximately 4,450pounds with a rotor diameter of approximately 
15

34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 110 gallons). The DJI Phantom II UAS has several safety 

features which will minimize the potential for fly-aways and maximize the safe and efficient use 

of the aircraft in the NAS. The DJI Phantom II UAS Naza-M-V2 controller provides Intelligent 

Orientation control (Home Lock and Course Lock features). The Home Lock feature allows for 

a safe return should the operator (i.e. Pilot in Command) get disoriented as to the direction the 

aircraft is moving. Once activated on the remote control, the operator can simply pull back on 

the right control stick and the DJI Phantom II UAS will return to the remote control regardless of 

the aircraft’s location from the remote control. The Course Lock feature will allow the operator 

to maintain a specific course regardless of aircraft orientation. The Naza-M-V2 controller also 

provides for fail safe and lost-link safeguards. The fail safe feature means that when the 

controller link is lost all outputs of the command sticks from the controller will go the center 

point. An example would be if the aircraft is in a climbing right turn and the communication 

link is lost, the aircraft would go into a level hover and not continue with the last assigned 

controller instructions. After 3 seconds of the lost-link scenario, the aircraft will climb or 

descent (based on altitude the lost-link occurs) to a pre-assigned altitude and return to the point 

of departure and land itself. A more detailed description of each system is attached as Exhibit 

B. 

4. Performing Drought Monitoring With The DJI Phantom II UAS Will 

Benefit The Economy. 

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

alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct drought monitoring via aerial videography and 

image processes. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS will allow United States based 

companies, like REC, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. 
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Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protection Agency 

(“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must 

adopt new and alternative technology in order to remain competitive. 

Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom II 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 II UAS, companies such as REC 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 II 

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. 

5. There Are No Privacy Issues. 

Like the manned aerial videography flight operations that have been conducted for 

decades, the proposed operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS will not implicate any privacy 

issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom II UAS will be operated over the public right-of-way 

or above private property with the property owner/controllers consent, and in accordance with 

all Federal Aviation Regulations. 

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or 

How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided 

By The Rule From Which REC Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.9(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 
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This exemption would maintain the level of safety established by Section 

91.9(b) because REC will keep the Airplane Flight Manual (See Exhibit A) at the 

ground control station where the pilot in command flying the DJI Phantom II UAS will 

have immediate access to the document. 

Safety will not adversely affected when the Aircraft Flight Manual is kept at the ground 

control station of a UAS, where it can be immediately accessed by the pilot in command. Section 

91.9(b) “requires aircraft to carry the flight manual so the pilot would have ready access to the 

aircraft limitations while in flight.” However, the FAA has found that UAS will always be 

operated without any passengers or crew onboard by definition of UAS. 

, and that “requiring these special-use aircraft [UAS] to carry superfluous paper 

documents may present a safety hazard to the integrity of the [UAS].” Id. 

The FAA has previously granted exemptions in circumstances similar, in all material 

respects, to those recently presented herein (e.g., Exemption Nos. 10167, 10602, 10673, 10835, 

10869, 10968). 

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.203(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

This exemption would maintain the level of safety established by Sections 91.203(a) and 

(b) because REC will keep the required documents at the ground control station where the pilot 

in command flying the DJI Phantom II UAS will have immediate access. 

Note that the FAA has previously granted exemptions in circumstances similar, in all 

material respects, to those presented herein (e.g., Exemption Nos. 8607, 8737, 8738, 9299, 9564, 

9565, 10167, 10602, 10673, 10835, 10869, 10968). 

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of 14 C.F.R. § 

45.23(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 
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This exemption would maintain the level of safety established by Section 45.23(b) 

because if required, displaying the word “Restricted” with two (2) inch high letters, horizontally 

between outrunners on all four sides of the DJI Phantom II UAS, will inform all parties of the 

unmanned aircraft’s overall operating status. 

Significantly, REC will display the word “Restricted” in two (2) inch high letters in 

compliance with size requirement of Section 45.23(b) (i.e., “letters not less than 2 inches nor 

more than 6 inches high”). By placing the letters horizontally between outrunners on all four 

sides of the DJI Phantom II UAS, will ensure that the word “Restricted” is the in most visible 

location, so that all parties will be informed of the unmanned aircraft’s overall operating status. 

The FAA has previously granted exemptions in circumstances similar, in all 

material respects, to those presented herein (e.g., Exemption Nos. 8737, 10167, 10167A, 

10700, 10810). 

4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of 14 C.F.R. § 21.185, 

Including The Requirement To Have A Certificate Of Airworthiness, Would 

Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

In seeking this exemption, REC submits that the DJI Phantom II UAS can operate safely 

in the NAS above the State of Idaho without creating a hazard to other aircraft or people on the 

ground. Accordingly, the FAA may approve its use without an airworthiness certificate as 

demonstrated by: (i) the safe operational history and current use of the DJI Phantom II UAS in 

the NAS; (ii) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom II UAS; (iii) the limited area of REC’s 

intended operation; (iv) the Safety Management System REC has developed for DJI Phantom II 

UAS operations and maintenance; (v) the appropriate airman certificate; (vi) the specific 

operating limitations; and (vii) any other conditions that the Administrator may prescribe. 

i. The DJI Phantom II UAS Has A Proven History Of Operation In 

 The NAS Pursuant To Advisory Circular 91-57, June 9, 1981. 
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The DJI Phantom II UAS is currently operating safely in the NAS pursuant to Advisory 

Circular 91-57, Model Aircraft Operating Standards. The DJI Phantom II UAS has been 

operated worldwide since 2006. 

ii. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom II UAS Demonstrate Its Safe 

Characteristics. 

The DJI Phantom II 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, or operational 

capability. The specifications of the DJI Phantom II UAS are as follows: 

Unmanned Aircraft 

System 

The DJI Phantom II is an Unmanned Aircraft System that is 

comprised of an unmanned quad-rotor aircraft and a transportable 

ground station. 

Unmanned Aircraft 

Dimensions 

Diagonal Length: 

13.7 inches (350mm) 

Engine 

(Propulsive Unit) 

Engine (Propulsive Unit) 

(4) Multistar P/N : 2212 (Electric) FAA 

Engine Type Cert: None 

Propulsive Unit Type: (1) 11.1V 5200mAh, Lithium polymer 

battery powered, brushless electric motors 

Motor, Controller Sub-Assembly: 

Manufacturer: DJI Innovations 

Model: Naza-M 

Type: Motor Controller 

3.15W (0.25A@12.6V) Maximum 

27 grams Wt. 

Motor, Battery: 

Manufacturer: DJI Innovations 

Type: 3S Lithium Polymer 

5200 milliamp hour 

11.1V (nominal) 
20

Fuel 

Not Applicable. 

 NOTE: The DJI Phantom II UAS is powered by a Lithium 

 Polymer rechargeable battery, DJI, Inc. P/N 733496- 

 5200mAh-11.1V. 

Engine (Propulsive Unit) 

Limits 

Maximum Power Output: 130 Watts 

Maximum RPM: 920Kv (rpm/v) 

Propeller and 

Propeller Limits 

(4) DJI Innovations 

FAA Propeller Type Certificate: None 

Propeller Type: 2-blade, ABS plastic, fixed pitch 

Propeller Sub-Assembly: 

Manufacturer: DJI Innovations 

Model: 9450 10x4.5mm 

Diameter (Nominal): 10 in. 

Battery Command & 

Control 

DJI Innovations battery powers the motor, and internal battery 

powers the command and control ground station (remote). 

Airspeed Limits 

Vne (Never Exceed Speed) 29 knot (15 m/s) 

Vno (Maximum Structural Cruising Speed) Not Applicable 

Va (Maneuvering Speed) Not Applicable 

Landing Speed: Not Applicable 

Mean Aerodynamic 

Chord (MAC) Not Applicable 

Leveling Means Not Applicable. 

Maximum Weights 

Ramp 4.4 lbs (2000 grams) 

Takeoff 4.4 lbs (2000 grams) 

Landing 4.4 lbs (2000 grams) 

Empty Weight 

2.2 lbs. (1000 grams) 

 NOTE: Empty Weight Includes weight of battery and 

 Excludes payload modules. 

Frequencies 

902-928 MHz (ISM Band) 

2.4 GHz (ISM Band) 

 NOTE: FCC license is not required to utilize the above 

 frequencies; uplink and downlink are on the 900Mhz band. 

If 

 video is utilized, 
21

Computer Software Ground Station software, iOS 

Minimum Crew (1) The DJI Phantom II UAS can be operated by a single 

operator. 

Number of Seats (0) Not Applicable. 

Fuel Capacity Not Applicable. 

Oil Capacity Not Applicable 

Max. Operating Altitude 393 ft. AGL (120 M) 

Control Surface 

Movements Not Applicable 

Nominal Endurance 25 minutes 14° - 122° F (-20° - 50° C) 

Ambient Outside Air 

Temperature (OAT) 

Maximum OAT: 122° F (50° C) 

Minimum OAT At Altitude: 14° F (-10° C) 

Wind Limitation Not Applicable 

Maintenance 

This DJI Phantom II UAS must be maintained in accordance with 

the DJI Phantom II Maintenance Operation Manual, or later FAA 

accepted revision. 

iii. Flight Operations Pursuant To The Exemption Sought Would 

Be Limited To Areas Over The State Of Idaho That Is Not In 

The Proximity Of Airports Or Over Populated Areas. 

REC proposes to only conduct drought monitoring via aerial videography flight 

operations along with image processes over areas of the State of Idaho that are not near 

populated areas, airports, helipads, or state roads. Specifically, REC’s proposed area of flight 

operations over the State of Idaho includes areas that are: 

1. Not within five (5) miles of any airport or helipad, without the consent of the 
22

affected ATC facility. Continuous two-way radio communication will be established and 

maintained at all times during flights in this area; 

2. Not below one hundred fifty (150) feet over of state roads having more than two lanes; 

and 

3. Not below seventy-five (75) feet over state roads having two lanes or less. Since this 

platform is capable of hovering, slewing laterally, and ascending/descending over 

a point, we are considering the DJI Phantom II UAS a “helicopter” for the purposes of 

91.119(d). Furthermore, all flight operations will be conducted in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 

91.119. Minimum safe altitudes: General. 

In summary, REC seeks to operate its DJI Phantom II UAS over areas of Idaho, while 

maintaining safe distances from any populated areas, airports, helipads, and roadways. 

iv. Operation Of The DJI Phantom II UAS Will Be Conducted 

Pursuant To A Safety Management System. 

A Safety Management System (“SMS”) will control REC’s operation of the DJI Phantom 

II UAS and will significantly contribute to maintaining the level of safety contemplated by the 

airworthiness certificate requirements from which REC now seeks relief. 

Pursuant to the SMS and 14 C.F.R. § 43.13, entitled Performance Rules (general), each 

person performing maintenance, alteration, or preventive maintenance on the DJI Phantom II 

UAS, motor, propeller, or appliance shall use the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed 

in the current manufacturer's maintenance manual or Instructions for Continued Airworthiness 

prepared by its manufacturer, or other methods, techniques, and practices acceptable to the 

Administrator. Each person shall use the tools, equipment, and test apparatus necessary to 

assure completion of the work in accordance with accepted industry practices. 

v. Flight Operations Of The DJI Phantom II UAS Are Limited To The Line 

Of Sight Of An Appropriate Airman Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety 

Observer. 
23

REC will only utilize Private Pilots with a valid First or Second Class Airman Medical 

certificate to act as pilot in command of the DJI Phantom II UAS. Additionally, all pilots will be 

assisted by a safety observer. The pilot in command and safety observer must meet the 

requirements as set forth by the SMS/Standard Operating Procedures (See Exhibit C) adopted by 

REC for flight operations of the DJI Phantom II UAS. A copy of the Standard Operating 

Procedures, which is proprietary information, is attached hereto as Exhibit C revised after 

Hershey Volunteer Fire Company. 

vi. Flights Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating 

Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, REC proposes to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 

II UAS without satisfying the restricted category airworthiness certification process specified in 

14 C.F.R. § 21.185, or otherwise having a certificate of airworthiness issued by the FAA, as 

contemplated by 14 C.F.R. Part 21. REC proposes to operate the DJI Phantom II UAS, for the 

special purpose of conducting drought monitoring via aerial videography and image processes 

over the State of Idaho, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations: 

1. Flight operations are permitted only over the State of Idaho. 

2. The DJI Phantom II UAS will be operated at or below 400 ft. above ground level 

(AGL), except as necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

3. The DJI Phantom II UAS shall be operated within one mile, and within line of sight, 

of the pilot in command and safety observer. 

4. The DJI Phantom II UAS shall be operated pursuant to Day Visual Flight Rules 

(VFR) in visual meteorological conditions (VMC). The DJI Phantom II UAS shall 

be operated only during daylight hours (i.e. between the end of morning civil twilight 

and the beginning of evening civil twilight, as published in the American Air 
24

Almanac, converted to local time). The duration of each flight shall not exceed 25 

minutes or upon reaching 25% battery power, whichever is less. 

5. The DJI Phantom II UAS shall operate from on-site takeoff/landing locations directly 

next to the pilot in command and co-located safety observer. If the operation is from a 

watercraft, the pilot in command and safety observer shall remain co-located on the 

same watercraft. 

6. Operations shall be conducted by certificated airmen who have completed training, 

checking, currency, and recency of experience requirements as approved by the FAA 

Administrator. 

7. Operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS with any inoperative instruments or equipment 

shall be prohibited. 

8. The DJI Phantom II UAS shall be maintained in accordance with the Manufacturer’s 

Maintenance Manual. 

9. The DJI Phantom II UAS shall be operated pursuant to 14 C.F.R. Part 91, operating 

requirements. 

10. For the proposed flight operation, only one DJI Phantom II UAS shall be airborne at 

any given time. 

11. Prior to flight operations, REC shall coordinate and establish two way 

communications with an Air Traffic Control facility nearby, if any. 

12. For any flight operations over U.S. Government or state managed lands, REC shall 

coordinate with the appropriate authority and ensure that the property owners have at 

least twelve (12) hours of advance notice prior to the proposed flight operations. 

Coordination shall include anticipated periods of operation, purpose of the flights, 

and contact information for the operator should questions or issues arise. 
25

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

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and 

14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, REC requests that the FAA prescribe special 

conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS, which contain such safety 

standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that 

established by Section 21.185, and which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS 

for the special purpose of conducting drought monitoring via aerial videography and image 

processes over the State of Idaho. 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 aircraft systems in the NAS. 

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 

21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom II 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 (See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 for details): 

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 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. 

 

Therefore, in accordance with Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe 

special conditions for REC’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom II UAS, which contain such 

safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to 
26

that established by Section 21.185, and which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom II 

UAS for the special purpose of conducting drought monitoring via aerial videography and image 

processes over the State of Idaho. 

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules From 

Which REC Seeks Exemption: 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC. seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 

C.F.R. §§ 91.9(b), 91.203(a), 91.203(b), 45.23(b) and 21.185. 

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption REC Seeks: 

This exemption will permit Ryu Engineering and Company (REC), PLLC. to operate an 

Unmanned Aircraft System over certain rural areas of the State of Idaho, while keeping 

the documents required by the regulations at the ground control station and immediately 

accessible to the pilot in command. Furthermore, the exemption will relieve REC, 

PLLC. from the airworthiness certificate standards and the requirement to have a 

certificate of airworthiness for its Unmanned Aircraft System. This exemption will also 

permit any required markings concerning the operational status of the UAS to be 

displayed on the fuselage of the unmanned aircraft. 

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support REC’s 

Request. 

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 

333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in 

the NAS. As such, REC’s request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of 

Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above. 

Sec. 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to 

users of the NAS or the public or pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority 

for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification. Section 333 states the following: 

(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. 
27

(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. 

As discussed in detail above, the DJI Phantom II UAS has in the past, and will continue in 

the future, to operate safely in the NAS without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, 

or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 
28

CONCLUSION 

As set forth above, REC seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 

333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, which will permit safe operation of the 

DJI Phantom II UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the special purpose 

of conducting drought monitoring via aerial videography and image processes over areas in the 

State of Idaho. 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 REC to safely, efficiently, and economically 

operate the DJI Phantom II UAS commercially within the NAS. 
29

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, REC respectfully requests that the 

Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R. §§ 

91.9(b), 91.203(a), 91.203(b), 45.23(b), as well as the restricted category airworthiness 

certification standards specified in 14 C.F.R. § 21.185, including the requirement to have a 

certificate of airworthiness issued for the DJI Phantom II UAS, as contemplated by 14 C.F.R. 

Part 21. 

Dated: 

June 1, 2015 

Respectfully submitted, 

Ryu Engineering and Company, PLLC. 

/s/ Jae H. Ryu 

________________________________ 

Jae H. Ryu 

UAS Project Manager 

POBOX 170842 

Boise, Idaho 83716 

Tel: (208) 724-0531 

Fax: (208) 473-5120 

Petitioner 

cc: Rob Pappas (FAA), Dan Ngo (FAA) 
EXHIBIT A 

 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.1 | 

PHANTOM 2 User Manual V1.4 

For PHANTOM 2 Flight Controller Firmware version V3.10

& PHANTOM 2 Assistant version V3.8

& PHANTOM RC Assistant version V1.1

2015.01

Congratulations on purchasing your new DJI product. Please thoroughly read the entire contents of this manual to 

fully use and understand the product.

It is advised that you regularly check the PHANTOM 2’s product page at www.dji.com which is updated on a 

regular basis. This will provide services such as product information, technical updates and manual corrections. Due 

to any unforeseen changes or product upgrades, the information contained within this manual is subject to change 

without notice.

DJI and PHANTOM 2 are registered trademarks of DJI. Names of product, brand, etc., appearing in this manual are 

trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owner companies. This product and manual are copy 

righted by DJI with all rights reserved.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your product, please contact your dealer or DJI Customer Service.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 2 |

Content 

CONTENT........................................................................................................................2

IN THE BOX.....................................................................................................................4

LEGEND ..........................................................................................................................4

1. PHANTOM 2 AIRCRAFT ...............................................................................................5

1.1 BUILT-IN FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................5

1.2 CONNECTIONS WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS...........................................................................5

Important Notes of Using with Other DJI Products........................................................6

Connections with Other DJI Products.............................................................................7

1.3 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................11

1.4 NOTES FOR PHANTOM 2 USING WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS ................................................12

2 PROPELLERS...............................................................................................................13

2.1 ASSEMBLY.....................................................................................................................13

2.2 DISASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................13

2.3 NOTES .........................................................................................................................13

3 REMOTE CONTROLLER...............................................................................................14

3.1 POWER ON THE REMOTE CONTROLLER ...............................................................................14

3.2 REMOTE CONTROLLER LED INDICATOR STATUS ....................................................................15

3.2.1 Remote Controller Power LED Indicator Status...................................................15

3.2.2 Remote Controller Battery Level Indicator Status ...............................................15

3.3 ANTENNA ORIENTATION ..................................................................................................16

3.4 REMOTE CONTROLLER OPERATION ....................................................................................16

3.5 LINKING THE REMOTE CONTROLLER & BUILT-IN RECEIVER......................................................18

4 INTELLIGENT BATTERY ...............................................................................................19

4.1 CHARGING PROCEDURES..................................................................................................19

4.2 INSTALL THE BATTERY ......................................................................................................20

4.3 BATTERY USAGE.............................................................................................................20

4.4 DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTERY LEVEL INDICATOR...................................................................21

4.5 CORRECT BATTERY USAGE NOTES ......................................................................................22

5 CALIBRATING THE COMPASS......................................................................................23
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.3 | 

5.1 CALIBRATION WARNINGS .................................................................................................23

5.2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ..............................................................................................23

5.3 WHEN RECALIBRATION IS REQUIRED...................................................................................23

6 FLIGHT .......................................................................................................................24

6.1 FLYING ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS ..............................................................................24

6.2 STARTING THE MOTORS...................................................................................................24

6.3 TAKEOFF/LANDING PROCEDURES.......................................................................................24

6.4 FAILSAFE FUNCTION........................................................................................................25

6.5 LOW BATTERY CAPACITY WARNING FUNCTION.....................................................................27

6.6 FLIGHT LIMITS FUNCTION.................................................................................................27

Max Height & Radius Limits.........................................................................................27

6.7 FLIGHT LIMITS OF SPECIAL AREAS ......................................................................................28

6.8 CONDITIONS OF FLIGHT LIMITS .........................................................................................30

Disclaimer.....................................................................................................................30

7 ASSISTANT INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION ......................................................31

7.1 INSTALLING DRIVER AND PHANTOM 2 ASSISTANT...............................................................31

7.2 USING THE PHANTOM 2 ASSISTANT ON A PC....................................................................32

7.3 FIRMWARE UPGRADE OF PHANTOM 2 .............................................................................33

7.4 PHANTOM RC ASSISTANT DESCRIPTION...........................................................................33

8 APPENDIX..................................................................................................................35

8.1 SPECIFICATIONS..............................................................................................................35

8.2 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................35

 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.4 | 

In the Box 

PHANTOM 2 Remote Controller-2.4GHz Propeller Pair

Intelligent Battery Charger Plug Set

Screwdriver Assistant Wrench Cables

Micro-USB Cable Screws Accessories Box

 

Legend

Forbidden(Important) Caution Tip Reference
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.5 | 

1 PHANTOM 2 Aircraft

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[10]

[11]

[9]

Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2

[1]Propeller [2]Motor [3]Front Side [4]Front LEDs [5]Micro-USB Port [6]Landing Gear [7]Receiver 

Antenna [8]CAN-Bus Connector [9]LED Flight Indicators [10]DJI Intelligent Battery [11]Compass

1.1 Built-in Flight Control System Instructions

The built-in flight control system is used to control the entire aircraft’s functions in flight such as Pitch (forwards 

and backwards), Roll (left and right), Elevator (up and down) and Yaw (turn left or right). The flight controller 

contains the MC (Main Controller), IMU, GPS, compass, receiver.

The IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) has a built-in inertial sensor and a barometric altimeter that measures both 

attitude and altitude. The compass reads geomagnetic information which assists the GPS (Global Position System) 

to accurately calculate the aircrafts position and height in order to lock the aircraft in a stable hover. The receiver is 

used to communicate with the remote controller and the MC acts as the brains of the complete flight control 

system connecting and controlling all the modules together.

The PHANTOM 2 can be configured in the Assistant, by choosing Naza-M mode or Phantom 2 mode. 

This manual is for Phantom 2 mode. Please refer to the Naza-M V2 Quick Start Manual for more 

information.

1.2 Connections with Other DJI Products

PHANTOM 2 is compatible with other DJI products, including ZENMUSE H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal,iOSD mini,

iOSD Mark II. Below are connections for these products and wireless video transmission module.

Compass Gimbal Mounting Position Mount the H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal using 4 screws.

CAN-Bus Connector

Video Cable To the iOSD module or wireless video transmission module. 8-Pin Cable To the G8 port on the H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal.

5-Pin Cable To the compass.

Figure 1-3
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.6 | 

Important Notes of Using with Other DJI Products 

(1) The video cable can provide power for the wireless video transmission module with a battery voltage 

(11.1V~12.6V) and a maximum current 2A.

(2) Make sure the working current of the wireless video transmission module you connect can work with an 

operational voltage between 11.1V~12.6V and the total working current of the iOSD and wireless video 

transmission module is under 2A, as an overcurrent will damage the central board’s components. If the 

total current exceeds 2A, please be sure to provide power supplied from a separate power source for the 

wireless video transmission module.

(3) PHANTOM 2 uses a 2.4GHz RC system. To avoid communication interference, it’s not recommended to 

use other 2.4GHz devices (including 2.4G Wi-Fi or 2.4G wireless video transmission module) except the

2.4G Bluetooth and 2.4G Datalink.

(4) Be sure to keep the wireless video transmission module and other communicating devices away from the 

compass during installation and connection to avoid interference.

(5) To improve the compatibility with ZENMUSE gimbals, the latest factory deliveries of PHANTOM 2 has 

updated to the Version 2 shown below. H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal can be directly installed for the Version 2 

while for Version 1, a H3-3D adapter kit (coming soon) is required to install the H3-3D gimbal.

Version 1 Gimbal Mounting Position

Version 2 Gimbal Mounting Position

Figure 1-4

(6) When using the H3-3D gimbal, please connect the 8-Pin cable of PHANTOM 2 to the G8 port of H3-3D 

shown below.

Figure 1-5
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.7 | 

Connections with Other DJI Products 

(1) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal and wireless video transmission module, the figure below uses 

H3-2D as an example.

ZENMUSE H3-2D

Compass

VIDEO VIDEO GND

Batt+ Wireless Batt- video transmission module Transmitter

Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color) VIDEO GND VBat+

VIDEO

GND

Figure 1-6

(2) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal, iOSD mini and wireless video transmission module, the figure 

below uses H3-2D as an example.

ZENMUSE H3-2D

Compass CAN-Bus Connector

VIDEO GND VBat+ GND VIDEO GND VIDEO

Batt+ Batt- VIDEO

DJI

Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color) Wireless video transmission module Transmitter

Figure 1-7
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.8 | 

(3) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal, iOSD mini and DJI specified wireless video transmission module 

AVL58, the figure below uses H3-2D as an example.

ZENMUSE H3-2D

Compass

DJI

DJI specified wireless video transmission module AVL58 Transmitter

CAN-Bus connector

VIDEO GND VBat+ GND

VIDEO Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color)

 

Figure 1-8

We recommend connecting the VBat+ port of the video cable to the two BATT+ ports of the AVL58 

simultaneously. The same is true of the GND port of the video cable and two BATT- ports.

 

(4) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal, iOSD Mark II and wireless video transmission module, the figure 

below uses H3-2D as an example.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.9 | 

ZENMUSE H3-2D

VBat+ GND

VIDEO

DJI

VIDEO GND Wireless video transmission module Transmitter specified by DJI(AVL58) OR Other wireless video transmission module Transmitter

CAN-Bus Connector Compass

Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color)

Figure 1-9

The diagram below illustrates the conneciton between the iOSD Mark II and the wireless video transmission module.

iOSD Mark II Other wireless video transmission module Transmitter VIDEO GND VIDEO

BATT- Batt- BATT- BATT+ BATT+ UART UART AV-OUT AV-GND

Batt- Batt+ Batt+

Wireless video transmission module AVL58 Transmitter specified by DJI iOSD Mark II

AV-OUT AV-GND

BATT- BATT- BATT+ BATT+ UART UART

Use the 8-Pin cable in the iOSD Mark II package when connecting to the DJI specified wireless video 

transmission module AVL58.

 

(5) Using the iPad Ground Station 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.10 | 

iPad Ground Station iPad Ground Station

+ -

3S-6S Battery 3S-6S Battery

Air End Ground End

Figure 1-10

Connect the Air End of 2.4G Bluetooth Datalink to a spared CAN-Bus port of iOSD if an iOSD is used.

(6) Using the PC Ground Station 

Air End Ground End

PC Ground Station

Figure 1-11
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.11 | 

1.3 LED Flight Indicators Description

1. LED flight indicators are used to show the aircraft’s current status. Once powered on, the indicators will light 

up. 

LED flight indicators

Aircraft in Normal status Descriptions 

Power On Self-Test

Warming Up & Aircraft cannot take off during warming up

Ready to Fly

Ready to Fly (non-GPS)

Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors

Remote Controller Signal Lost

1

st Level Low Battery Capacity Warning

2

nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big

Errors & Aircraft cannot fly.

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or 

the compass needs calibration. 

(1) The LED indicators diagram above are for Phantom 2 mode. In Naza-M mode, LED indicators 

will work according to the Naza-M flight control system.

(2) Connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant for detailed information about warnings and errors.

2. The front LEDs are for indicating where the nose of the aircraft is. They light up solid red only after the motors 

have spooled up.

The front LEDs
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.12 | 

1.4 Notes for PHANTOM 2 using with other DJI products

Before using PHANTOM 2 with other DJI products, users should connecting the products correctly and upgrade 

the firmware as requirements below .

Items to upgrade Firmware versions required Assistant for upgrading Assistant version 

P330CB (built-in 

central board)

V1.0.1.19 or above PHANTOM 2 V1.08 or above

Zenmuse H3-2D CMU V1.0,IMU V1.6 or above PHANTOM 2 V1.08 or above

iOSD Mark II V3.01 or above iOSD V4.0 or above

iOSD mini V1.06 or above iOSD V4.0 or above

*The iOSD Assistant is applied to both iOSD Mark II and iOSD mini.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.13 | 

2 Propellers 

PHANTOM 2 uses the original 9-inch propellers which are classified by the color of each central nut. Damaged 

propellers should be replaced by purchasing new ones if necessary.

Propellers Grey Nut (9450) Black Nut (9450 R)

Diagram

Assembly Location

Attach to the motor thread that does 

not have a black dot.

Attach to the motor thread that has a

black dot.

Fastening/Un-fastening 

Instructions

Lock: Tighten the propeller in this direction.

Unlock: Remove the propeller in this direction.

2.1 Assembly 

1. (Figure 2-1)Remove the four warning cards from the motors after you’ve read them.

2. (Figure 2-2)Prepare the two grey nut propellers and two black nut propellers. Make sure to match the 

black nut propellers with the correctly marked black dot motors. Tighten the propellers according to the 

fastening instructions.

 

Figure 2-1 Figure 2-2 Figure2-3

2.2 Disassembly 

(Figure 2-3)Keep the motor deadlocked in place with the assistant wrench (or one hand) and remove the 

propeller according to the un-fastening instructions.

2.3 Notes

1. Propellers are self tightening during flight. DO NOT use any thread locker on the threads.

2. Make sure to match the propeller nut colors with the corresponding motors.

3. It is advised to wear protective gloves during propeller assembly and removal.

4. Check that the propellers and motors are installed correctly and firmly before every flight.

5. Check that all propellers are in good condition before flight. DO NOT use any ageing, chipped, or broken 

propellers.

6. To avoid injury, STAND CLEAR of and DO NOT touch the propellers or motors when they are spinning.

7. ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.14 | 

3 Remote Controller

The PHANTOM 2 remote controller can be configured in the PHANTOM RC Assistant. The sticks mode is Mode 2 

on delivery.

For upgraded remote controller (models: NDJ6 or NRC900), select “Upgrade Version” in Phantom Assistant. 

For basic remote controller (models: DJ6 or RC900), select “Basic Version” in Phantom Assistant.

[1]

[2]

[5] [4]

[9]

[10]

J2

J1

J3

J4 [7]

[8]

[6]

[3]

[11]

[12]

[13]

[14]

Figure 3-1 Figure 3-2 

[1]Antenna [2]Carrying Handle [3]Left Dial [4]3-Position Switch S1 [5]3-Position Switch S2 [6]Joystick1(J1;J2)

[7]Joystick2(J3;J4) [8]Neck Strap Attachment [9]Power Switch [10]Power Indicator

[11]Battery Level Indicators LED1/LED2/LED3/LED4 (from left to right) [12]Trainer Port

[13]Battery Charge & RC Assistant Port (micro-USB port) [14] Potentiometer

3.1 Power on the Remote Controller

1. Set the S1 and S2 switches to the upper most position and ensure both joysticks are at 

the mid-point position. Then toggle on the power switch.

2. Push the power switch to the right to power on the remote controller. If the power LED 

indicator is solid on, the remote controller is functioning normally. The battery level 

indicators display the current battery level.

1. Please make sure the battery level of remote controller is enough. If the low voltage warning alert 

sounds (refer to <Remote Controller Power LED Indicator Status>), please recharge the battery as soon 

as possible.

2. Charge the remote controller’s battery by using the included micro-USB cable. Using the incorrect 

type of charging cable may cause damage.

3. Turn off the remote controller before charging. The power LED indicator will display solid red when 

charging is in progress. The LED indicators will display solid green when the battery is fully charged.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.15 | 

3.2 Remote Controller LED Indicator Status 

3.2.1 Remote Controller Power LED Indicator Status 

Power LED Indicator Sound Remote Controller Status 

 None Functioning normally. 

 None Charging( remote controller is powered off)

 None Remote controller joysticks calibration error, need to be re-calibrate.

 BB---BB---BB Low voltage (from 3.5V-3.53V), recharge the remote controller.

 B-B-B...... 

Critical low voltage (from 3.45V-3.5V). Recharge the remote 

controller immediately.

 B--B--B...... 

Alert will sound after 15 minutes of inactivity. It will stop once you 

start using the remote controller. 

The remote controller will power off automatically when battery voltage drops below 3.45V. Land and 

recharge the battery as soon as possible when the low voltage alert occurs to avoid loss of control 

during flight.

3.2.2 Remote Controller Battery Level Indicator Status 

The battery level indicators will show the current battery level during both the discharging process. The following is 

a description of the indicators.

: The LED is solid on : The LED will blink regularly

: The LED is light off

Discharging process 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

75%~100%

50%~75%

25%~50%

12.5%~25%

0%~12.5%

<0%
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.16 | 

3.3 Antenna Orientation

The remote controller’s antenna should point skywards without obstructions for maximum communication range 

during flight.

Figure 3-3

3.4 Remote Controller Operation

The operations of remote controller are based on mode 2 stick configuration.

Definitions 

The ‘stick neutral’ positions and ‘stick released’ mean the control sticks of the remote controller are placed at

the central position. 

To ‘move the stick’ means that the stick of remote controller is pushed away from the central position.

Slide Lever is used for the pitch control of the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal. 

Remote 

Controller 

(Mode 2)

Aircraft 

( nose direction)

Operation details 

The throttle stick controls aircraft altitude/elevation. 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will rise.

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will descend.

The aircraft will automatically hover and hold its 

altitude if the sticks are centered. 

Push the throttle stick above the centered (mid-point) 

position to make the aircraft take off. When flying, we 

suggest that you push the throttle stick slowly to 

prevent the aircraft from sudden and unexpected 

elevation changes.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.17 | 

The yaw stick controls the aircraft rudder.

Push the stick left and the aircraft will rotate counter 

clock-wise. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will rotate 

clock-wise. If the stick is centered, the aircraft will 

remain facing the same direction.

The yaw stick controls the rotating angular velocity of 

the aircraft. Pushing the stick further away from center 

results in a faster aircraft rotation velocity. 

The pitch stick controls the aircraft’s front & back tilt.

Push the stick up and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

forward. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

backward. The aircraft will keep level and straight if the 

stick is centered. 

Pushing or pulling the stick further away from center 

will result in a larger tilt angle (maximum of is 35 ̊) and 

faster flight velocity. 

The roll stick controls the aircraft’s left & right tilt.

Push the stick left and the aircraft will tilt and fly left. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will tilt and fly right. 

The aircraft will keep level and straight if the stick is 

centered. 

Pushing the stick further away from center will result in 

a larger tilt angle (maximum of 35 ̊) and faster flight 

velocity. 

 

Position-1 Position-2 Position-3

S1 is for compass calibration. Toggle the S1 switch from 

position-1 to position-3 and back to position-1 at least 5 

times, which will force the aircraft to enter into

compass calibration mode.

Users can configure position 3(bottom position) of the 

S1 switch to trigger the Failsafe in the Assistant.

 

OFF Course Lock Home 

point Lock

S2 is the IOC mode switch. IOC (Intelligent 

Orientation Control) function can be enabled in the 

Assistant when in Naza-M mode. Only use the IOC 

function after you are familiar with flying. 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.18 | 

The left dial controls the pitch of the H3-2D and H3-3D

gimbal. The position of left dial determines the pitch 

angle relative to the horizontal level.

Turn the left dial to the right to make the gimbal pitch 

up. 

Turn the left dial to the left to make the gimbal pitch 

down.

The gimbal will keep its current position if the dial is 

static.

(1) For ‘Ready to Fly’ the aircraft will hover when all sticks are released.

(2) For ‘Ready to Fly (non-GPS)’ the aircraft will only keep the altitude when all sticks are released.

3.5 Linking the Remote Controller & Built-in Receiver

PHANTOM 2 has a built-in receiver, the link button and indicator located on the bottom of the aircraft as illustrated 

in the Figure 3-4.

The link between the remote controller and aircraft is already established for you so you can initially skip this 

procedure. If you ever replace the remote controller, re-establishing the link is required.

Link button & Link indicator

Figure 3-4

Linking procedures 

1. Power on the PHANTOM 2.

2. Turn on the remote controller and place it 0.5m~1m away from the aircraft.

3. Push the link button with a thin object and hold it until the Link indicator blinks red, then release it.

4. When the Link indicator turns solid green, the link between the remote controller and the built-in receiver 

has been successfully established.

Link Indicator Status 

 

The remote controller is turned off and there is no 2.4GHz signal around, please turn 

on the remote controller. 

 The receiver is ready for linking. 

 There is 2.4GHz signal around but the remote controller is not linked with the receiver, 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.19 | 

please carry out the linking procedures. 

 The remote controller is linked with the receiver successfully.

4 Intelligent Battery

The intelligent battery is specially designed for the PHANTOM 2, with a battery capacity of 5200mAh, voltage of 

11.1V and charge-discharge management functionality. The battery should only be charged with the DJI charger.

 

Intelligent Battery Charger 

DJI Intelligent Battery Functions 

(1) Balance Charging Automatically balance the voltage of each battery cell during charging.

(2) Capacity Display Display the current battery level.

(3) Communicating 

The main controller communicates with the battery via communication ports 

for battery voltage, capacity, current and other information.

(4) Overcharging Protection 

Charging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 12.8V to 

prevent overcharging damage.

(5) Over Discharging

Protection 

Discharging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 8.4V to 

prevent over discharging damage.

(6) Short Circuit Protection Automatically cuts off the power supply when a short circuit is detected.

(7) Sleep Protection

The battery will enter sleep mode after 10 minutes of inactivity to save 

power. The static current is 10nA in sleep mode when the battery is 

powered on without connecting to other devices.

(8) Charging Temperature 

Detection

The battery will charge only when its temperature is within 0°C~55°C. If the 

battery temperature is out of this range, the battery will stop charging.

(1) Before use, please read and follow the user manual, disclaimer, and the warnings on the battery. 

Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage.

(2) The battery should only be charged with the charger provided by DJI. DJI does not take any 

responsibility for operation of any charger from a third party.

4.1 Charging Procedures

1. Connect the charger to a wall socket (Use the plug set if necessary).

2. Connect the battery to the charger. If the current capacity of the battery is over 75%, you should power on 

the battery to begin charging.

3. The Battery Level indicators display current capacity level as the battery charges. Please refer to battery 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.20 | 

level indicator description for details.

4. The battery is fully charged when the Battery Level indicator lights are off. Please disconnect the charger 

and battery when the charging is completed.

Wall Socket

4.2 Install the Battery

Push the battery into the battery compartment correctly as the following diagram shows. Make sure to push the 

battery into the compartment until you hear a ‘click’ sound.

Figure 4-1

An incorrectly inserted battery may cause one of the following to occur: (1) Bad contact. (2) Unavailable

battery information. (3) Unsafe for flight. (4) Unable to take off.

4.3 Battery Usage

Figure 4-2

(1) Checking the battery level: When the battery is powered off; pressing the battery power button once will 

indicate the current battery level. Refer to < Battery Level Indicator Description> for details.

(2) Powering on: When the battery is powered off; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn on the intelligent battery.

(3) Powering off: When the battery is powered on; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn off the intelligent battery.

LED3

LED4

Battery Power Button

(Built-in Battery Power Indicator)

LED2

LED1

Battery Level Indicator
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.21 | 

(4) Checking the battery life: When the battery is powered off; press and hold the battery power button for 5 

seconds to check the battery life. The battery level indicators will show the life and the battery power indicator 

will blink for 10 seconds, then all LEDs will light out and the intelligent battery will turn off. Refer to < Battery 

Level Indicator Description> for details.

More battery information is available in the battery tab of the PHANTOM 2 Assistant.

4.4 Description of the Battery Level Indicator 

The battery level indicators will show the current battery level during both the charging and discharging process as 

well as battery life. The following is a description of the indicators.

: The LED is solid on : The LED will blink regularly

: The LED is light off

Charging process 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

0%~25%

25%~50%

50%~75%

75%~100%

Full charged

Discharging process 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

87.5%~100%

75%~87.5%

62.5%~75%

50%~62.5%

37.5%~50%

25%~37.5%

12.5%~25%

0%~12.5%

<0%

Battery life 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery life 

90%~100%
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.22 | 

80%~90%

70%~80%

60%~70%

50%~60%

40%~50%

30%~40%

20%~30%

Less than 20%

4.5 Correct Battery Usage Notes

1. Never plug or unplug the battery into the aircraft when it is powered on.

2. The battery should be charged in an environment that is between 0°C to 40°C, and be discharged in an

environment that is between -20°C to 50°C. Both charging and discharging should be in an environment

where the relative humidity is lower than 80%.

3. It’s recommended to charge and discharge the battery thoroughly once every 20 charge/discharge cycles. 

Users should discharge the battery until there is less than 8% power left or until the battery can no longer 

be turned on. Users should then fully recharge the battery to maximum capacity. This power cycling 

procedure will ensure the battery is working at its optimal level.

4. For long term storage please place the battery with only a 40~50% capacity in a strong battery box 

securely. We recommend discharging and charging the battery completely once every 3 months to keep it 

in good condition. The capacity should be varied in such a cycle (40%~50%)—0%—100%—(40%~50%).

5. It’s suggested you purchase a new battery after you have discharged your current battery over 300 times.

Please completely discharge a battery prior to disposal. 

6. It’s suggested that you purchase a new battery if the current battery is swollen or damaged in any way.

7. Never try to recharge or fly with a battery that is swollen or damaged in any way.

8. Never charge the battery unattended. Always charge the battery on a non-flammable surface such as 

concrete and never near any flammable materials.

9. Safety is extremely important and users can get more information in the DISCLAIMER.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.23 | 

5 Calibrating the Compass

IMPORTANT: Make sure to perform the Compass Calibration procedures prior to the first flight.

The compass is very sensitive to electromagnetic interference which causes abnormal compass data and leads to 

poor flight performance or even flight failure. Regular calibration of the compass enables the compass to perform at 

its optimal level.

5.1 Calibration Warnings

 

(1) DO NOT calibrate your compass where there is a possibility for the existence of strong 

magnetic interference such as magnetite, parking structures, and steel reinforcement 

underground.

(2) DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular

phones.

(3) Compass Calibration is very important; otherwise the flight control system will work abnormally.

5.2 Calibration Procedures

Please carry out the calibrating procedures in the flight field before flight. Please watch the quick start video of the 

PHANTOM 2 for more compass calibration details.

Normal LED

Quickly flip the switch S1 360o Rotate the aircraft horizontally 360o

Rotate the aircraft vertically (Nose downward) Position-1

Start horizontal calibration Start vertical calibration Succeed Fail

Position-1->Position-3->Position-1 Flip no less than 5 times Start cali

LED Flight Indicator

Position-1->Position-3->Position-1 Flip once

Position-3

LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

Re-calibrate Position-1 Position-3 5.3 When Recalibration is required

(1) When Compass Data is abnormal, the LED flight indicator will blink alternating between red and yellow.

(2) Last compass calibration was performed at a completely different flying field/location.

(3) The mechanical structure of the aircraft has changed, i.e. changed mounting position of the compass.

(4) Evident drifting occurs in flight, i.e. the aircraft doesn’t fly in straight lines.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.24 | 

6 Flight 

6.1 Flying Environment Requirements

 

(1) Before your first flight, please allow yourself some flight training (Using a flight simulator to 

practice flying, getting instruction from an experienced person, etc.).

(2) DO NOT fly in bad weather, such as rain or wind (more than moderate breeze) or fog.

(3) The flying field should be open and void of tall buildings or other obstacles; the steel structure 

within buildings may interfere with the compass.

(4) Keep the aircraft away from obstacles, crowds, power lines, trees, lakes and rivers etc.

(5) Try to avoid interference between the remote controller and other wireless equipment (No base 

stations or cell towers around).

(6) The flight control system will not work properly at the South Pole or North Pole.

(7) Never use the aircraft in a manner that infringes upon or contravenes international or domestic 

lays and regulations.

6.2 Starting the Motors

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is used to start the motors. Push the sticks according to one of the options 

below to start motors. Once the motors have started, release both sticks simultaneously. The same CSC is used to 

stop the motors.

A B C D

Figure 6-1

6.3 Takeoff/Landing Procedures

1. Start by placing the PHANTOM 2 on the ground with the battery level indicators facing you.

2. Turn on the remote controller.

3. Power on the aircraft by turning on the intelligent battery.

4. When LED flight indicator blinks green/yellow, the PHANTOM 2 is entering Ready to Fly/Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode. Start the motors with the CSC command.

5. Push the throttle stick up slowly to lift the aircraft off the ground. Refer to <Remote Controller Operation> 

for more details.

6. Be sure you are hovering over a level surface. Pull down the throttle stick to descend. The stick will lock into 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.25 | 

place and the aircraft will descend steadily.

7. After landing, leave the throttle stick down for 3 to 5 seconds to stop the motors. Return throttle stick to 

middle position after the motors have stopped.

 

You SHOULD NOT execute the CSC during normal flight! This will stop the motors and cause the 

aircraft to descend rapidly and drop without any type of control.

 

(1) When the LED flight indicator blinks yellow rapidly during flight, the aircraft has entered into

Failsafe mode, refer to <Failsafe Function> for details.

(2) A low battery capacity warning is indicated by the LED flight indicator blinking red slowly or 

rapidly during flight. Refer to the <Low Battery Capacity Warning Function> for details.

(3) Watch the quick start video about flight for more flight information.

(4) Aircraft and battery performance is subject to environmental factors such as air density and 

temperature. Be very careful when flying 3000 meters (9800 feet) or more above sea level, as 

battery and aircraft performance may be reduced.

(5) When used with a H3-3D gimbal, a GoPro camera, and the iOSD mini, your Phantom 2 will be very 

close to its maximum takeoff weight. It is not recommended that you attach the Phantom 2 

propeller guards at this weight. Otherwise, the aircraft will be unable to fly normally.

6.4 Failsafe Function

The aircraft will enter Failsafe mode when the connection from the remote controller is lost. The flight control 

system will automatically control the aircraft to return to home and land to reduce injuries or damage. The following 

situations would make the aircraft fail to receive a signal from the remote controller and enter Failsafe mode:

(1) The remote controller is powered off.

(2) The remote controller is powered on but the S1 is toggled in the position triggering the Failsafe (this must 

have been configured in the PHANTOM 2 Assistant).

(3) The aircraft has flown out of the effective communication range of the remote controller.

(4) There is an obstacle obstructing the signal between the remote controller and the aircraft, essentially 

reducing the distance the signal can travel.

(5) There is interference causing a signal problem with the remote controller.

Failsafe works differently depending on the mode the aircraft is in when Failsafe mode is initiated whether it is in 

the Ready to Fly or Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode.

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) ---- Automatic landing

The flight control system will try to keep the aircraft level during descent and landing. Note that the aircraft may 

be drifting during the descent and landing process.

 

Ready to Fly ---- Automatic go home and land 

The flight control system will automatically control the aircraft to fly back to the home point and land.

 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.26 | 

Home Point 

When the aircraft is initializing the Ready to Fly status, the aircraft will record the current GPS coordinates as 

the home point. It is recommended to lift off only after Ready to Fly status is confirmed for the safety of being 

able to fly back to home point successfully in case the Failsafe mode is initiated.

Go Home Procedures 

1 Record Home Point. 2 Flying. 3 Remote controller signal lost.

4 Signal lost lasts 3s, begin to go home. 5 Fly back to home point. 6 Landing after hovering 15s.

LED Flight Indicator  LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

Height over home point<=2 0m

Height over home point>2 0m

20m

Elevate to 2 0m

Figure 6-2

 

(1) In a Failsafe situation, if less than 6 GPS satellites are found for more than 20 seconds, the aircraft 

will descend automatically.

(2) When the aircraft is landing automatically, users can control the aircraft’s position and altitude if 

the remote controller signal is recovered.

 

In Phantom 2 mode, users can set a new home point manually when the aircraft is in “Ready to fly” status 

as long as a home point has been recorded automatically. Quickly flipping the S2 switch of the remote 

controller from upper most to lower most positions 5 times or more will reset the current aircraft position 

as a new home point of PHANTOM 2. When successfully reset, you will see a series of rapid green blinks 

on the LED Flight Indicator. The definition of “home point” is:

(1) The home point is the place PHANTOM 2 returns to when the control signal is lost, which is 

recorded last time.

(2) The home point is used to calculate the horizontal distance between you and the aircraft, the 

distance will be displayed as 

D

if using iOSD module.

Regaining Control during Failsafe Procedure 

Position of 

Switch S1 

 

Position-1 Position-2 

Position-3 

(No triggering the Failsafe) 

How to regain 

control

When the S1 switch is switched to Position-1, 

toggle the S1 switch to any other position once to 

regain control. If remote controller’s signal is

recovered, control is returned back to the pilot.

Regain control as soon as signal is 

recovered.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.27 | 

6.5 Low Battery Capacity Warning Function

The low battery capacity warning alerts users when the battery is close to depletion during flight. When it appears, 

users should promptly fly back and land to avoid accidental damage. The PHANTOM 2 has two levels of low battery 

capacity warning. The first appears when the battery has less than 30% power and the second appears when it has 

less than 15% power.

(1) When battery power drops below 30% and LED indicator will blink red slowly.

(2) At lower than 15% the LED indicator will blink red rapidly, the PHANTOM 2 will also begin to descend and 

land automatically. After it has landed, keep the throttle stick at its lowest point or execute CSC.

(3) There is a hidden third low battery threshold in addition to the 1st and 2nd level warnings. This uses 10.65V 

as its threshold. Both this voltage threshold and the 2nd Level Low Battery Warning will trigger auto-landing. 

Altitude can be maintained if necessary by pushing up on the throttle stick.

 

(1) Remember to fly your PHANTOM 2 back as soon as you see a low battery capacity warning.

(2) Keeping the battery contact needles and pads clean is very important. Any dirt and dust may 

cause a communication failure.

6.6 Flight Limits Function

All UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) operators should abide by all regulations from such organizations at ICAO 

(International Civil Aviation Organization) and per country airspace regulations. For safety reasons, the flight limits 

function is enabled by default to help users use this product safely and legally. The flight limits function includes 

height, distance limits.

In Ready to Fly status, height, distance limits works together to restrict the flight. In Ready to Fly (non-GPS) status, 

only height limit works and the flying height restricted to be not over 120m.

(1) The default parameters in the Assistant is compliant within the definitions of class G ruled by 

ICAO. (Refer to Airspace Classification to get more details). As each country has its own rules, 

make sure to configure the parameters to comply with these rules too, before using the 

PHANTOM 2.

(2) Users in Mainland China can refer to 民用航空空域使用办法.

Max Height & Radius Limits 

The Max Height & Radius restricts the flying height and distance. Configuration can be done in the PHANTOM 2

Assistant. Once complete, your aircraft will fly in a restricted cylinder. 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.28 | 

Max Height Max Radius

Home Point The height of aircraft when it is powered on Figure 6-3 Figure 6-4

Ready to Fly 

 Limits Ground Station Rear LED flight indicator 

Max Height 

The flight height is restricted to fly 

under the max height. 

Warning: Height limit 

reached. 

None.

Max Radius 

The flight distance is restricted to fly 

within the max radius. 

Warning: Distance limit 

reached.

Rapid red flashings 

when close to the Max radius limit. 

Ready to Fly(non-GPS) 

 Flight Limits Ground Station Rear LED flight indicator 

Max Height 

The flight height is restricted to fly 

under the minor height between the 

Max height and 120m. 

Warning: Height limit reached. 

None.

Max Radius Not limited, no warnings or LED indicators. 

(1) If the aircraft flies out of the limits, you can still control your aircraft except to fly it further away.

(2) If the aircraft is flying out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) status, it will fly back 

within the limits range automatically if 6 or more GPS satellites have been found. 

6.7 Flight Limits of Special Areas 

Special areas include airports worldwide. All special areas are listed on the DJI official website. Please refer to 

http://www.dji.com/fly-safe/category-mc for details. These areas have been divided into category A and category B. 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.29 | 

 Category A Category B

Ready to Fly 

Airspace Limits 

Rear LED 

Flight Indicator 

A 

Orange 

Motors will not start.

If the Phantom flies into a special area in Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode and Ready to Fly mode activates, it will 

automatically descend and land then stop its motors. 

B 

Yellow 

If the Phantom flies into a special area in Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode and Ready to Fly mode activates, it will 

descend to airspace C and hover 5 meters below edge d. 

C 

Green 

No restrictions of flight, but the Phantom will not enter 

Category A, the aircraft can fly free, but it will not enter 

Airspace B through Boundary b & d.

Around Category B sites, the phantom can fly freely, but it will 

not enter into Airspace A through Boundary a.

D 

Blue 

No restrictions. None. 

10.5m

2400m

Center of Special Area 8000m

120m A B C

8100m

D

b

d

c b a a c

d

a

b

c

Airspace: A,B,C,D Boundary: a, b, c, d

1000m

A C D c a a c

a 2000m c Center of Special Area

Airspace: A,C,D Boundary: a, c,
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.30 | 

Semi-automatic descent: All stick commands are available except the throttle stick command during 

the descent and landing process. Motors will stop automatically after landing. Users will regain control 

once the motors have stopped. There is no need to toggle the S1 switch.

(1) When flying in the airspace (A/B/C) of restricted special area, LED flight indicators will blink red 

quickly and continue for 3 seconds, then switch to indicate current flying 

status and continue for 5 seconds at which point it will switch back to red blinking.

(2) For safety reasons, please do not fly close to airports, highways, railway stations, railway lines, 

city centers and other special areas. Try to ensure the aircraft is visible. 

6.8 Conditions of Flight Limits 

In different working modes and flight modes, flight limits will differ according to number of GPS satellites found. 

The following table demonstrates all the cases(√: available; ×:unavailable).

All flights are restricted by height, distance and special areas simultaneously.

Phantom mode 

Flight Status Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius 

Ready to Fly √ √ √

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) × √ ×

Naza-M mode 

Control Mode number of GPS found Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius 

GPS 

≥6 √ √ √

<6 × √ ×

ATTI.

≥6 √ √ ×

<6 × √ ×

Manual

≥6 × × ×

<6 × × ×

Disclaimer 

Please ensure that you are kept up to date with International and Domestic airspace rules and regulations before 

using this product. By using this product, you hereby agree to this disclaimer and signify that you have read this fully. 

You agree that you are responsible for your own conduct and content while using this product, and for any direct or 

indirect consequences caused by not following this manual, violate or disregard any other applicable local laws, 

administrative rules and social habits thereof.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.31 | 

7 Assistant Installation and Configuration

7.1 Installing Driver and PHANTOM 2 Assistant

Installing and running on Windows 

1. Download driver installer and Assistant installer in EXE format from the download page of PHANTOM 2 

on the DJI website.

2. Connect the PHANTOM 2 to a PC via a Micro-USB cable. 

3. Run the driver installer and follow the prompts to finish installation.

4. Next, run the Assistant installer and follow the prompts to finish installation.

5. Double click the PHANTOM 2 icon on your Windows desktop to launch the software.

The installer in EXE format only supports Windows operating systems (Win XP, Win7, Win8 (32 or 64 

bit)).

Installing and running on Mac OS X

1. Download the Assistant installer in DMG format from the download page of PHANTOM 2 on the DJI 

website.

2. Run the installer and follow the prompts to finish installation.

3. When launching for the first time if use Launchpad to run the PHANTOM 2 Assistant, Launchpad won’t 

allow access because the software has not been reviewed by Mac App Store. 

4. Locate the PHANTOM 2 icon in the Finder, press the Control key and then click the PHANTOM 2 icon 

(or right-click the PHANTOM 2 icon using a mouse). Choose Open from the shortcut menu, click open in 

the prompt dialog box and then software will launch.

5. After the first successful launch, directly launching of the software can be achieved by double-clicking 

the PHANTOM 2 icon in the Finder or using Launchpad.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.32 | 

Installer in DMG format supports only Mac OS X 10.6 or above.

Usage of PHANTOM 2 Assistant on Mac OS X and Windows are exactly the same. The Assistant pages 

appear in other places of this manual are on the Windows for example. 

7.2 Using the PHANTOM 2 Assistant on a PC

1. Start up the PC, power on the PHANTOM 2, then connect the PHANTOM 2 to the PC with a Micro-USB 

cable. DO NOT disconnect until configuration is finished.

2. Run the PHANTOM 2 Assistant and wait for the PHANTOM 2 to connect to the Assistant. Observe the 

indicators on the bottom of the screen. When connected successfully, the connection indicator is

and communication indicator is blinking .

3. Choose [Basic] or [Advanced] configuration pages.

4. View and check the current configuration in the [View] page.

Language swap View configurations

Connection indicator Communication indicator

RC, Gain Gimbal, Battery IMU calibration Firmware upgrade Account, software version

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface.

Function switch of Phantom 2 and Naza-M mode
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.33 | 

(1) Users should not enable the Naza-M function before finishing Advanced Flight Maneuvers 

procedure in the " PHANTOM Pilot Training Guide”. If the Naza-M mode is enabled, users can 

switch the control mode between ATTI. Mode, GPS Mode or Manual Mode, and access the 

advanced settings (e.g. IOC). In addition, the LED located on the rear frame arms will display

Naza-M flight status indications instead of the PHANTOM 2's indicators. Do not enable the 

Naza-M mode unless you are an experienced user or guided by a professional.

(2) You can change to the Phantom 2 mode by clicking the same button used to turn on the Naza-M 

mode. This operation will disable the Naza-M mode and enable Phantom 2 mode. All parameters 

will be returned to factory settings.

7.3 Firmware upgrade of PHANTOM 2

Please refer to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant to install driver and PHANTOM RC Assistant, and then follow the 

procedures below to upgrade the software and firmware; otherwise the PHANTOM 2 might not work properly.

1. An internet connection is required to upgrade PHANTOM 2’s firmware.

2. Click the [Upgrade] icon to check the current firmware version and whether the installed firmware is the 

latest version. If not, click the relative links to upgrade.

3. Be sure to wait until the Assistant shows “finished”. Click OK and power cycle the PHANTOM 2 after 5 

seconds. Once completed, the firmware is up to date.

Firmware upgradable items

Current firmware version

Upgrade link

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface.

(1) DO NOT power off until the upgrade is finished.

(2) If the firmware upgrade failed, the main controller will enter a waiting for firmware upgrade 

status automatically. If this happens, repeat the above procedures.

Firmware upgradable items:(1)Main Controller(2)P330CB(Main Board)(3)Receiver(4)Gimbal 

CMU(5)Gimbal IMU(6)Battery 

7.4 PHANTOM RC Assistant Description

Please follow the procedures to finish the configuration of the remote controller.
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.34 | 

1. Turn off the remote controller and find the Micro-USB port on the bottom of it.

2. Start up the PC, power on the remote controller, and then connect the remote controller to the PC with a 

Micro-USB cable. DO NOT disconnect until the configuration is finished.

3. Run the PHANTOM RC Assistant and wait for the remote controller to connect to the Assistant. Observe 

the indicators on the bottom left of the screen. When connected successfully, the connection 

indicator is and communication indicator is blinking .

4. Finish configuration in the [Main] page.

5. Finish upgrade in the [Info] page if necessary.

DT7调参软件

Main Page of the 2.4GHz Remote Controller 

Language swap Main page

Connection indicator Communication indicator

Firmware upgrade Account, software version

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface. 
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.35 | 

8 Appendix

8.1 Specifications

Aircraft

Operating environment temperature -10°C to 50°C

Power consumption 5.6W

Supported Battery DJI Intelligent battery

Weight (including the battery) 1000g

Take-off Weight ≤1300g 

Hovering Accuracy (Ready to Fly) Vertical: 0.8m; Horizontal: 2.5m

Max Yaw Angular Velocity 200°/s

Max Tilt Angle 35°

Max Ascent / Descent Speed Ascent: 6m/s; Descent: 2m/s

Max Flight Speed 15m/s (Not Recommended)

Wheelbase 350mm

2.4GHz Remote Controller 

Operating Frequency 2.4GHz ISM

Communication Distance (open area) 1000m

Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) -97dBm

Working Current/Voltage 120 mA@3.7V

Built-in LiPo Battery Working Current/Capacity 3.7V, 2000mAh

DJI Intelligent Battery

Type 3S LiPo Battery

Capacity 5200mAh, 11.1V

Charging Environment Range 0°C to 40°C

Discharging Environment Range -20°C to 50°C

8.2 LED Flight Indicators Description

Aircraft in Normal status Descriptions 

Power On Self-Test

Warming Up & Aircraft cannot take off during warming up

Ready to Fly

Ready to Fly (non-GPS)

Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors

Remote Controller Signal Lost

1

st Level Low Battery Capacity Warning
©2013-2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.36 | 

2

nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big

Errors & Aircraft cannot fly.*

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or 

the compass needs calibration. 

* Users can connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant to get detailed information about warnings and errors.
EXHIBIT B 

 
Communication System Description: Two‐way communications will be achieved using the remote

controller for UAS. The Phantom’s remote controller (PRC) can communicate with 2.4 GHz frequency

level and the maximum distance of operational radius is about 1 kilometer in an open area. Receiver’s

sensitivity of signals is at range about ‐97dBm and battery power (4 AA batteries) requires 100 mA@6V.

The operations of remote controller are based on mode 2 stick configuration.  Operational details using

Mode 2 stick are available at the following table.

Remote Controller (Mode 2) Aircraft Direction Operation Details

Left Stick (throttle stick): Up and

Down

                   

Upward and Downward The throttle stick controls

the aircraft elevation. Push

the stick up and the aircraft

will rise. Pull the stick down

and the aircraft will

descend. The aircraft will

automatically hover and

hold its altitude if the sticks

are centered. Pushing the

throttle stick above the

centered (neutral position

will result in the aircraft

taking off. It is

recommended that the

user pushes the throttle

stick slowly to prevent the

aircraft from sudden and

unexpected ascent.  

Left Stick (yaw stick): Left and Right Left and Right The yaw stick controls the

aircraft rudder. Push the

stick left and the aircraft

will rotate counter

clockwise. Push the stick

right and the aircraft will

rotate clockwise. If the stick

and the aircraft will rotate

clockwise. If the stick is

centered, the aircraft will

always fly in the same

direction. The command

stick controls the rotating

angular velocity of the

aircraft. Increasing

movement of the command

stick results in faster

aircraft rotation velocity.  

Right Stick(pitch stick): Forward and

Backward

Front and Back tilt The pitch stick controls the

aircraft’s front & back tilt.
Push the stick up and the

aircraft will tilt and fly

forward. Pull the stick down

and the aircraft will tilt and

fly backward. The aircraft

will keep level and straight

if the stick is entered.

Increasing movement of

the command stick will

result in a larger tilt angle

(maximum is 35 degree)

and faster flight velocity.  

Right Stick (roll stick) Left and Right tilt The roll stick controls the

aircraft left & right tilt. Push

the stick left and the

aircraft will tilt and fly left.

Push the stick right and the

aircraft will tilt and fly right.

The aircraft will keep level

and straight if the stick is

centered. Increasing

movement of the command

stick will result in a larger

tilt angle (maximum is 35

degree) and faster flight

velocity.  

Position Lock S1 on the right Position 1, Position 2, Position 3 S1 is for compass

calibration. Toggle the S1

switch from position 1 to

position 3 and back to

position 1, 5 times or more

to enter into compass

calibration mode. Users can

configure position 3

(bottom position) of the S1

switch to trigger the

Failsafe in the Assistant

software.

Position Lock S2 on the left Off, Course Lock, Home‐point

lock

S2 is the Intelligent

Orientation Control (IOC)

function can be enabled in

the Assistant software

when in Naza‐M mode.

Only use the IOC function

after you are familiar with

flying.
Slide lever on the back Gimbal position control Slide Lever controls the

pitch of the H3‐2D gimbal.

The position of slide lever

determines the pitch angle

relative to the horizontal

level. Slide the lever left to

make the gimbal pitch

down up toa 90 degree

position. Slide the lever

right to pitch up to0

degree position resulting in

gimbal being ata

horizontally level

orientation.  

  

  
EXHIBIT C 

 
Standard Operating Procedures: Air Vehicle 

I. POLICY 

The unmanned aerial system is a tool to conduct drought monitoring via aerial videography and 

image processes. While aircraft operations afford specific mission capabilities that make use of 

an unmanned aerial system advisable in some tactical operations, there are limitations that may 

hamper flexibility. 

II. DEFINITIONS 

a. Air Vehicle (AV): the system purchased by Ryu Engineering and Company (REC) including 

the multi-rotor aircraft, Ground Control Station (GCS), and associated peripherals. 

b. Ground control station (GCS): Consists of the operator control unit (OCU), ground data 

terminal (GDT) and associated cables and antennas. This GCS provides the interface between the 

Pilot in Command (PIC) and the air vehicle (AV). 

c. Ground Data Terminal (GDT): Contains all the necessary equipment for the communication 

links between the air vehicle (AV) and the operator control unit (OCU) for both data and video. 

Also contains a Global Positioning System (GPS) to enable the operator to determine the 

system’s location. 

d. Operator Control Unit (OCU): consists of the control transmitter or computer that is used to 

make changes to the aircraft position and altitude and the data/video transmitted by the air 

vehicle (AV). 

e. Payload: The amount of equipment carried by the aircraft. Typically divided between 

command and control communications (radio receiver antenna) and video (camera, transmitter). 
f. Pilot-In-Command (PIC): The person directly responsible for all operations including safety of 

the air vehicle (AV) as described by Federal Aviation Regulations (FARS) 91.3. 

g. Observer: The observer is responsible for visual observation and safety of the air vehicle (AV) 

while in flight. 

h. Liaison: A person who interacts with incident personnel to avoid distracting the PIC and 

observer from their duties. 

III. ORGANIZATION 

a. Equipment 

The air vehicle (AV) and all related equipment will be stored and available for missions as 

needed. 

b. TEAM COMPLIMENT 

The air vehicle (AV) team will be operated by a team of at least two staff members (pilot-incommand and observer). Each member will be assigned a specific role prior to flight. Additional 

team members may be needed for complex missions. 

IV. QUALIFICATIONS 

Air vehicle (AV) pilot must be a certificated airmen who have completed training, checking, 

currency, and recency of experience requirements as approved by the Federal Aviation 

Administration (FAA). This generally includes simulator flight, a knowledge test of federal 

aviation regulations, safety, maintenance of the aircraft, and a proficiency test in the AV. 

V. DUTIES 
a. Pilot in command (PIC): The PIC will function as the team leader and operator of the air 

vehicle (AV). The PIC will be ultimately responsible for the operation and solely responsible for 

input of commands/piloting of the AV in flight. The PIC will be responsible for the GCS 

assembly, Flight preparation, post flight and storage. All flights will be documented in a flight 

log book. Additionally the PIC will designate specific individuals to fill crew roles as needed. 

b. Observer: the observer will maintain a visual observation of the air vehicle (AV) while it its 

flight and alert the PIC of any conditions (obstructions, terrain, structures, air traffic, weather, 

etc.), which may affect the safety of a flight. Additional the observer will be responsible for all 

aviation related communications required by FARs. To accomplish this effectively, the observer 

should be in close proximity to the PIC to ensure instant relaying of information. Direct radio 

communication with crew is acceptable based on conditions. Additional observers maybe 

necessary. 

c. Liaison Officer: The liaison will be the conduit for information between the crew and the 

operations branch. Radio connection can be utilized between crew. The liaison officer will 

facilitate data and imagery obtained by the air vehicle (AV) to the operations branch. 

VI. CALL-OUT PROCEDURES 

a. County Communications (dispatch) will page the duty officer. The duty officer will gather 

facts and decide if a response is warranted. 

b. Responder travels to the incident will normally be class 3 (non-emergency) unless rare 

conditions warrant an upgraded status. 

c. The PIC will be the sole decision maker to operate a flight or terminate a flight before mission 

objectives are met. Decisions are contingent on several factors including the ability of the air 
vehicle (AV) team to operate in a safe environment, physical features of the area, obstructions, 

terrain, other aircraft, and weather. 

d. Aircraft must be used for safety of responder related missions. Routine law enforcement, 

surveillance or tracking of person(s) or property is not permitted at any time. 

VII. SAFETY OF OPERATION 

a. The safety of air vehicle (AV) operations (including persons and property) is the responsibility 

of the entire team. AV team members should bring to the attention of other members any 

condition which they feel is a safety concern. 

b. Except as required by the mission, all air vehicle (AV) team members will ensure no persons 

are in the vicinity of the AV during operations, and avoid flying over persons or vehicles. 

c. Under no circumstances shall the air vehicle (AV) be utilized over large gatherings of people, 

as a chase vehicle or operated from a moving vehicle. 

d. Except for the purpose of training or with department supervisor approval, only agency 

personnel who meet the requirements set forth in Section IV. Will be permitted to act as a team 

member. 

e. Air vehicle (AV) members will comply with the AV operator manual, warnings, limitations, 

placards, and/or checklists at all times unless an emergency dictates otherwise. 

f. PIC is authorized to evaluate, accept or decline any mission or portion thereof for the safety of 

operations. 

g. All AV flights will be conducted in Day/Visual Meteorological conditions only. 

h. All team members will be familiar with the Section 333 and any attachments which relate to 

the operation of the AV and comply with the same. 
j. Flight locations are limited by the Section 333. 

k. No flight above 400 feet above the ground. 

l. Do not operate in a manner or location that would endanger persons or property on the ground. 

VIII. NORMAL OPERATIONS 

a. Operations area 

i. The area selected by the air vehicle (AV) team should be secure if possible. The site selected 

and utilized should be restricted to the personnel involved in operations. 

ii. The area should be evaluated for adequate space and clearances in order to assemble, launch, 

operate and recover the AV. 

iii. Attention should be given to overhead obstacles and obstructions that may pose a risk to the 

AV during operations. 

iv. Flames, smoke, heat, clouds, hazardous materials, and water from hoses are very likely to 

cause instability in the aircraft, melt/warp blades, cause damage or crash. Avoid hazardous 

conditions. 

b. AIR VEHICE (AV) ASSEMBLY AND USE 

i. The AV will be assembled on site by the team according to manufacturer instructions and 

guidelines. 

ii. Determine an acceptable method for Operations to view live or recorded imagery. 

iii. Imagery obtained by equipment is the property of the home agency. Follow department 

policies regarding images, including release or storage of imagery for investigations and/or 

social or other media. 

c. BATTERIES 
Only manufacturer approved batteries and charging units will be used. When possible, fully 

charged batteries will be used. The aircraft will land as soon as practical when low battery alerts 

are received. Be aware the aircraft will automatically seek to land when batteries reach a 

critically low level. 

d. PRE-FLIGHT 

i. A pre-flight check will be completed according to the manufacturers and/or FAA checklist. 

ii. Components should be checked to ensure correct operations and security to the craft. 

e. COMMUNICATIONS 

i. All radio communications required by the FAA will be complied with. 

ii. Communications with air vehicle (AV) team members during operations will be limited to 

operationally necessary communications to minimize disruptions to AV team members. 

iii. The AV should not be operated in connection with special circumstances before verifying 

with an appropriate subject matter expert (bomb squad, hazmat, electronic counter measures, 

etc.). 

f. FLIGHT OPERATIONS 

i. The air vehicle (AV) shall be operated in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and 

applicable FAA and department limitations and restrictions. 

ii. Care shall be taken in the operation of the AV to avoid overflying persons and property that 

could result in injury or damage whenever possible. 

iii. A copy of the Section 333 approval letter and manufacturers documents shall be present when 

flights are conducted. 

iv. The lost link response shall be set to the rally point and to the maximum altitude set in 

accordance with the altitude limit of the Section 333. 
v. For all operations, the observer shall utilize a distance from the AV that will adequately permit 

them to maintain a visual observation on the AV. 

vi. All team members will comply with all limitations, restrictions and requirements as 

enumerated in the Section 333. 

g. POST-FLIGHT PROCEDURES 

A post-flight check of the air vehicle (AV) will be completed according to the manufacturer 

recommendations. The AV should be prepared for redeployment or disassembly and storage. 

h. DOCUMENTATION 

i. The PIC shall be responsible for completing the log book following each flight. Each flight 

will be listed to include date, location, mission, crew (including PIC and observer). This 

information is used for maintenance, proficiency and reporting/documentation to the FAA. 

IX. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 

Emergency procedures in the manufacture’s operations manual shall be followed for all air 

vehicle (AV) operations. 

a. LOSS OF AIR VEHICLE (AV) FLIGHT CONTROL (Lost link) 

The AV lost link procedures shall be set for 15 seconds to the rally point response which shall 

automatically cause the AV to climb to its ceiling altitude and return to and land at the launch 

site. If positive control of the AV cannot be maintained and the AV is leaving the operation area 

or the AV poses a risk to life and/or property, the PIC will attempt an engine kill command. 

b. LOSS OF VISUAL CONTACT 

If visual contact with the air vehicle (AV) is lost, the PIC shall command the aircraft into a hover 

mode and the observer shall try to re-establish visual contact. If visual contact cannot be re-
established within a reasonable amount of time (determined by the PIC) then lost link procedures 

shall be executed. 

c. LOSS OF GPS SIGNAL 

Should the air vehicle (AV) loose GPS signal during autonomous operations, the PIC must 

immediately command the AV into manual mode and land as soon as practical. If positive 

control of the AV cannot be maintained and the AV is leaving the operation area or the AV poses 

a risk to life and/or property, the PIC will issue an engine kill command. 

d. LOSS OF AIR VEHICLE (AV) POWER (Engine failure)/AV crash 

In the case of engine failure or crash, the AV team members will immediately attempt to locate 

the AV, access the scene for injuries, and render first aid as necessary. A crash report must be 

completed as soon as possible including proper notification. 

X. STORAGE/TRANSPORTATION 

a. The air vehicle (AV) and support equipment should be kept in appropriate containers for 

timely portability and deployment. 

b. Prior to transporting for deployment, a team member will ensure all necessary gear is loaded 

using the equipment checklist. 

 

XI. MISSION READINESS 

a. In order to ensure mission readiness, the following considerations shall be adhered to: i. The 

air vehicle (AV) and related components shall be stored together in approved containers. 
ii. Batteries shall be cycled through a charger a minimum of once a month or as recommended by 

the manufacturer. All batteries will be clearly labeled and documented. Batteries will be replaced 

as needed. 

XII. INCIDENTS/ACCIDENTS (Crash) 

a. During an incident/accident, efforts will be focused on: 

i. Minimizing risk to life 

ii. Care for the injured 

iii. Protection of property 

b. NOTIFICATIONS 

i. The following notifications will be made as soon as practical: 

1. Contact emergency personnel (fire rescue) if necessary 

ii. Notify FAA and/or National Transportation Safety Board if: 

1. Any persons are injured related to the aircraft. 

2. Any damage to property related to the aircraft. 

c. INVESTIGATION 

i. Initial investigation will be conducted by supervisory personnel using an accident/incident 

investigation form, diagrams and photographs. 

ii. Follow up investigations may be needed. 

XIII. DAMAGE 

Any damage to the air vehicle (AV) or its support system shall be reported immediately to a 

supervisor. Any damage to the AV or equipment that renders the system as inoperable shall be 
labeled (red tag) so as to be observable. The AV or its equipment will not be operated if unairworthy. 

XIV. MAINTENANCE 

a. Minor issues in the field (e.g. tightening loose screws, replacing antennas, changing pods, 

etc.). are allowed by trained PIC/Observers. 

b. It may be necessary to return the aircraft to the manufacturer or authorized/licensed repair 

facility. 

XV. TRAINING/PROFIENCY 

a. Initial training will be accomplished by REC’s instructor pilots who have completed a training 

course established for that purpose. 

b. Recurrent training will be conducted on a regular basis for all crew. The intent is to have crew 

maintain currency and prepared for missions. 

c. Proficiency requires three (3) take-off and landing events within the last 90 days to act as PIC. 

If a pilot is not current, they must complete proficiency before being allowed to operate as PIC 

for missions. Training is allowed if the pilot is not proficient. 

d. Training will take place at designated sites.