Elizabeth Lauricella

Drone Source International

1 Beech Blvd

Port Orange, FL 32129

(386) 322-5334

November 23, 2015

US Department of 

Transportation Docket 

Management System 1200

New Jersey Ave., SE Washington DC 20590

Re: Exemption Request Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act and Part 11 of the 

Federal Aviation Regulations from: 14 CFR 21 subpart H; 14 CFR 45.23(b); 14 CFR 61.113(a); 14 

CFR 91.7(a);14CFR 91.9(b)(2); 14 CFR 91.103;14 14 CFR 91.119(c); 14 CFR 91.121; 14 CFR

91.151(a); 14 CFR 91.203 (a) and (b); 14CFR 91.405 (a); 14CFR 91.407 (a) (1) 14CFR 91.409 (a)(l)

and (2); 14CFR 91.417(a) and (b)

To whom it may concern:

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and 14CFR Part 11,

Richard Joseph Sandora, with Volusia Vistas, hereby applies for an exemption from the listed Federal 

Aviation Regulations to allow commercial operation of a small UAS, so long as such operations are

conducted within and under the conditions outlined herein or as my be established by the FAA as 

required by Section 333, for all operators of small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) working for

WASP.

Commercial operation small UAS, as described herein, which are equipped with cameras and 

sensors, would operate in the following manner:

 Aerial photography and/or video for public and/or private use including real estate, 

architecture, land surveying, engineering and other related professional activities.

 Aerial video and/or photography for public and/or private use including television, public

events, and cinematography.

 Aerial inspection/photography of residential/commercial structures under contract with 

owners or local governmentauthority.
As described fully below,the requested exemption would permit the operation of small UAS

under controlled conditions inthe NASthat would be a) limited b) controlled c)

predetermined and d) will provide safety enhancements to the already safe operations in the 

industry presently using conventional aircraft. Approval of this exemption would thereby 

enhance safety and fulfill the Secretary of Transportation's (the FAA Administrator's) 

responsibilities to "....establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in 

the national airspace system."

The name, phone, email and address of the applicant: 

Name: Richard Joseph Sandora

Company: Volusia Vistas

Phone: (386) 383-5372

Email: rjsandora@gmail.com

Address: 36 Highland Avenue, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174-5614

Private Pilot License number: 165381255

AOPA Member 00784736 since 1982

Regulations from which the exemption is requested: 14 CFR Part 21 subpart H

14 CFR 45.23 (b) Marking of the Aircraft

14 CFR 61.113(a) Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: Pilot in Command.

14CFR 91.7(a) Civil Aircraft Airworthiness.

14CFR 91.9(b) (2) Civil Aircraft Flight Manual inthe Aircraft

14 CFR 91.103 Preflight Action

14 CFR 91.119(c) Minimum Safe Altitudes.

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter Settings.

14 CFR 91.151(a) Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions

14 CFR 91.203 (a) & (b) Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration

14 CFR 91.405(a) Maintenance Inspections.

14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1) Maintenance Inspections.

14 CFR 91.409 (a) (2) Maintenance Inspections.

14 CFR 91.417 (a) & (b) Maintenance Inspections.

The small UAS's I will be using are multi-rotor craft weighing no more than 55lbs. including payload. 

Under normal conditions they operate at speeds of no more than 45 Mph or 39 Knots and have the 

ability hover and move along a vertical and horizontal plane simultaneously. They will operate in line of 

sight only and by the exempted persons only obeying all other local and federal laws.

Given the small size of the small UASand the controlled environment provided the proposed operations 

will adhere to the Reform Act's safety requirements. The approval of this application presents no 

national security issues. Regarding the level of safety surrounding the proposed operations and the 

public benefit, reduction in environmental impacts, including but not limited to reduced emissions and 

noise, the grant of the requested exemption is in the public interest.Accordingly the applicant requests 

that the FAA grant the requested exemption with minimum delay.
AIRCRAFT AND EQUIVALENT LEVELOFSAFETY

The operation limitations proposed for an equivalent or higher level of safety because operations will further 

enhance the safety of the persons and/or property using conventional aircraft.

These limitations and conditions to which the applicant agrees to adhere to when conducting commercial 

operations under the FAA issued exemption as set forth in the Flight Operations Manual (FOM) include:

1. The small UAS will weigh less than 55 lbs.

2. Flights will be operated within line of sight of a pilot and/or observer.

3. Maximum flight time for each operational flight will be 30 minutes. Flights will be terminated at 25% 

battery power reserve or 30 minutes of flight time whichever occurs first.

4. Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) and not 

more than 200 feet above an elevated platform from which filming is planned.

5. Minimum crew for each operation will consist of the small UAS Pilot in Command (PIC), the Visual 

Observer (VO) when needed and may include but not limited to a Camera Operator.

6. A briefing will be performed regarding the planned small UAS operations prior to each day's flight 

consisting of all the days' production activities.

7. The PIC will obtain verbal/written consent of all persons involved with the planned operation and 

ensure that only consenting persons will be allowed within 100 feet of the flight operation, and the 

radius may be reduced to 30 feet based upon an equivalent level of safety determination, as 

required under the FOM. With the advanced permission or direction of the FSDO, operations at

closer range may be approved.

8. The PIC and VO will have been trained in operation of small UAS and receive up-to-date 

information for the particular small UAS to be operated and will be able to show upon request their 

competent ability to operate the small UAS and/or Camera.

9. The PIC and VO will be able to communicate by voice, radio, and/or text at all times.

10. Written and/or verbal permission and permits will be obtained from territorial, state,county or city

jurisdictions, including law enforcement, fire or other appropriate governmental agencies when

needed.

11. If the small UAS loses communications or loses GPS signal, the small UAS will have the 

capability to return to a pre-determined location within a designated location and land 

autonomously.

12. The small UAS will have the capability to abort a flight in case of unpredicted obstacles, 

weather, or emergencies.

14 C.F.R. Part 21,Subpart H:Airworthiness Certificates 14 C.F.R. §91.203 (a) (1)

Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, establishes the procedural requirements for the issuance of 

airworthiness certificates as required by FAR §91.203 (a) (1). Given the size and limited operating area 

associated with the aircraft to be utilized by the Applicant, an exemption from Part 21 Subpart H meets the 

requirements of an equivalent level of safety under Part 11and Section 333 of the Reform Act. The Federal 

Aviation Act (49 U.S.C.§44701 (f)) and Section 333 of the Reform Act both authorize the FAA to exempt aircraft 

from the requirement for an airworthiness certificate, upon consideration of the size, weight, speed, operational 

capability, and proximity to airports and populated areas of the particular small UAS. In all cases, an analysis of 

these criteria demonstrates that the small UAS operated without an airworthiness certificate, in the restricted 

environment and under the conditions proposed will be at least as safe, or safer, than a conventional aircraft 

(fixed wing or rotorcraft) operating with an airworthiness certificate without the restrictions and conditions 

proposed.
The small UAS to be operated hereunder is less than 55 lbs. fully loaded, carries neither a pilot nor passenger, 

carries no explosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and operates exclusively within a secured and designated 

area. Unlike other civil aircraft, operations under this exemption will be tightly controlled and monitored by both the 

operator and under the requirements and in compliance with local public safety requirements. These safety 

enhancements provide a greater degree of safety to the public and property owners than conventional operations 

conducted with airworthiness certificates issued under 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Lastly, application of these 

same criteria demonstrates that there is no credible threat to national security posed by the small UAS, due to its 

size, speed of operation, location of operation, lack of explosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and inability to 

carry a substantial external load.

14C.F.R. § 45.23 (b). Marking of the Aircraft

The regulation requires: 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.

Even though the small UAS will have no airworthiness certificate, an exemption Is warranted because the small 

UAS will have no entrance to the cabin, cockpit or pilot station on which the word "Experimental" can be placed. 

Given the size of the small UAS, two-inch lettering will be impossible. The word "Experimental" will be placed on 

the fuselage in compliance with §45.29 (f). The equivalent level of safety will be provided by having the small 

UAS marked on its fuselage as required by §45.29 (f) where the pilot, observer and others working with the small 

UAS will see the identification of the small UAS as "Experimental."

Given the nature of the specific relief sought by this exemption request, Petitioner requires relief from the associated 

marking and identification requirements of § 45.27(a) and § 91.9(c), which would require compliance with § 45.23(b).

The FAA has issued the following exemptions to the aircraft marking requirements of § 45.23(b): Exemptions Nos. 

10700, 8738, 10167 and 10167A.

14 C.F.R. § 61.113(a): Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: Pilot in Command.

Pursuant to 14 CFR 61.113 (a), no person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a

pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire. Our small UAS 

do not carry any pilots or passengers nor property therefore I am seeking an exemption to 14 CFR61.113(a). 

Although helpful, a pilot's license will not ensure remote control piloting skills. The risks attendant to the 

operation of small UAS is far less than the risk levels inherent in the commercial activities outlined in 14 CFR 

61. I feel the operation and limitations set forth in the FOM will equate to the safe operation of the small 

UAS.

14 C.F.R. §91.7(a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness.

The regulation requires that no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in airworthy condition. 

As there will be no airworthiness certificate issued for the aircraft, should this exemption be granted, no FAA 

regulatory standard will exist for determining airworthiness. Given the size of the aircraft for maintenance and use 

of safety checklists prior to each flight an equivalent level of safety will be provided.
14C.F.R. § 91.9 (b) (2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual inthe Aircraft.

Section 91.9 (b) (2) provides: No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft ... (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. The small UAS, given its size and configuration has no ability or 

place to carry such a flight manual on the aircraft, not only because there is no pilot on board, but 

because there is no room or capacity to carry such an item on the aircraft. The equivalent level of safety 

will be maintained by keeping the flight manual at the ground control point where the pilot flying the small 

UAS will have immediate access to it.

14C.F.R. § 91.103: Preflight Action.

This regulation requires each pilot in command to take certain actions before flight to insure the safety 

of flight. As FAA approved rotorcraft flight manuals will not be provided for the aircraft an exemption 

will be needed. 

The OPERATOR will take all actions including reviewing weather, flight battery requirements, landing

and takeoff distances and aircraft performance data before initiation of flight.

14C.F.R. §91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes.

Section 91.119 establishes safe altitudes for operation of civil aircraft. Section 91.119 (d) allows helicopters 

to be operated at less than the minimums prescribed, provided the person operating the helicopter 

complies with any route or altitudes prescribed for helicopters by the FAA. As this exemption is for a 

small UAS that is a helicopter and the exemption requests authority to operate at altitudes up to 400 AGL, 

or not more than 200 above an elevated platform from which filming is planned, an exemption may be 

needed to allow such operations. As set forth herein, the small UAS will never operate at higher than 400 

AGL with the exception that in circumstances where the small UAS is used to survey or photograph a 

structure whose height exceeds 400 feet AGL, the small UAS will not be operated more than 100' above 

the highest point on the structure. It will however be operated in a restricted area with security perimeter, 

where buildings and people will not be exposed to operations without their pre- obtained consent. The 

equivalent level of safety will be achieved given the size, weight, speed of the small UAS as well as the 

location where it is operated. No flight will be taken without the permission of the property owner or local 

officials. Because of the advance notice to the property owner and participants in the filming activity, all 

affected individuals will be aware of the planned flight operations.

Compared to flight operations with aircraft or rotorcraft weighting far more than the maximum 551bs. 

proposed herein and the lack of flammable fuel, any risk associated with these operations is far less than 

those presently presented with conventional aircraft operating at or below 500 AGL. In addition, the

low-altitude operations of the small UAS will ensure separation between these small- UAS operations 

and the operations of conventional aircraft that must comply with Section 91.119.
14 C.F.R. §91.121 Altimeter Settings.

This regulation requires each person operating an aircraft to maintain cruising altitude by reference to

an altimeter that is set "...to the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting 

available before departure."

As the small UAS may not have a barometric altimeter, but instead a GPS altitude read out, an 

exemption may be needed. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by the operator, pursuant to 

the safety check list and live flight data monitoring, confirming the altitude of the launch site shown on 

the GPS altitude indicator before flight.

14 C.F.R. § 91.l5l(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions

Section 91.151 (a) prohibits an individual from beginning "a flight in an airplane under VFR conditions 

unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of 

intended landing, and, assuming normal cruising speed - (1) During the day, to fly after that for at least 

30 minutes; or {2) At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes." 

The battery powering the small UAS provides approximately 30 minutes of powered flight. To meet the 

30 minute reserve requirement in 14 CFR §91.151, small UAS flights would be limited to approximately 10 

minutes in length. Given the limitations on the small UAS's proposed flight area and the location of its 

proposed operations within a predetermined area, a longer time frame for flight in daylight or twilight VFR 

conditions is reasonable.

Applicant believes that an exemption from 14CFR §91.151(a)falls within the scope of prior exemptions. 

Operating the small UAS, in a tightly controlled area where only people and property owners or official 

representatives who have signed waivers will be allowed, with less than 30 minutes of reserve fuel, does 

not engender the type of risks that Section 91.151(a)was intended to alleviate given the size and speed 

of the small UAS. Additionally, limiting small UAS flights to 10 minutes would greatly reduce the utility 

for which the exemption will be granted. Applicant believes that an equivalent level of safety can be 

achieved by limiting flights to 30 minutes or 25% of battery power- whichever happens first. This 

restriction would be more than adequate to return the small UAS to its planned landing zone from 

anywhere in its limited operating area.

14 C.F.R. §91.203 (a) and (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration.

The regulation provides in pertinent part:

(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. . . .

(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.
The small UASfully loaded weighs no more than 55 lbs. and is operated without an onboard pilot.As 

such, there is no ability or place to carry certification and registration documents or to display them

on the smallUAS.

An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by keeping these documents at the ground control point 

where the pilot flying the small UAS will have immediate access to them; to the extent they are 

applicable to the small UAS.

14C.F.R. §91.405 (a); 407 (a) (1); 409 (a) (2); 417(a) & (b): Maintenance Inspections.

These regulations require that an aircraft operator or owner "shall have that aircraft inspected as 

prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, except as provided in 

paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter...," 

and others shall inspect or maintain the aircraft in compliance with Part 43. Given that these section 

and Part 43 apply only to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate.

These sections will not apply to the applicant. Maintenance will be accomplished by the operator 

pursuant to the flight manual and operating handbook. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved 

because these small UASs are very limited in size and will carry a small payload and operate only in 

restricted areas for limited periods of time. If mechanical issues arise the small UAS can land 

immediately and will be operating from no higher than 400 feet AGL. The operator will ensure that the 

small UAS is in working order prior to initiating flight, perform required maintenance, and keep a log of 

any maintenance performed. Moreover, the operator is the person most familiar with the aircraft and 

best suited to maintain the aircraft in an airworthy condition to provide the equivalent level of safety.

An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because maintenance and inspections will be performed 

in accordance with the small UAS Manufacturer's Manual, as referenced in the Aircraft Operations 

Manual (AOM}. As provided in the FOM, the operator will ensure that the small UAS is in working order 

prior to initiating flight and perform required maintenance needed.

Refer to Appendix A: Safety Manual

Additional Information pertinent to this request. 

Approval of exemptions allowing commercial operations of UASs in the film industry will enhance safety 

by reducing risk. Conventional film operations, using jet or piston power aircraft, operate at extremely 

low altitudes just feet from the subject being filmed and in extreme proximity to people and structures; 

and present the risks associated with vehicles that weigh in the neighborhood of 4,000lbs., carrying 

large amounts of jet A or other fuel (140 gallons for jet helicopters shown below). Such aircraft must fly

to and from the film location. In contrast, a UAS weighing fewer than 55 lbs. and powered by batteries 

eliminates virtually all of that risk given the reduced mass and lack of combustible fuel carried on board. 

The UAS is carried to the film set and not flown. The UAS will carry no passengers or crew and, 

therefore, will not expose them to the risks associated with manned aircraft flights.

Privacy

All flights that will occur over private or controlled access property with the property owner’s prior 

consent and knowledge. Filming will be of people who have also consented to being filmed or otherwise 

have agreed to be in the area where filming will take place. 
No-Fly Zones

Richard Sandora of Voulsia Vistas will not operating within 5 nautical miles of any airport.

As a safety precaution, Genius House Media’s pilots will not operating within 5 nautical miles of any 

airport similar to the permission granted in Exemption No. 11153 - Regulatory Docket No. FAA20140519, 

page 25, "20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on 

a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airports management is 

obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operators 

COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator 

upon request."

As well as in Exemption No. 11195 - Regulatory Docket No. FAA20140884, page 12, "19. The UA may 

not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA-published 

aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airports management is obtained, and the 

operation is conducted in accordance with a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), as required by the operators 

Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). The letter of agreement with the airport management must 

be made available to the Administrator upon request."

Richard Sandora requests the same flexibility as exemptions 11153 and 11195 for acquiring agreement 

with the airports' management should operations fall within 5 nautical miles of an airport. 

Small UAS Information

Small UAS1s to be used are as follows.

All drone Specifications and Flight Manuals are attached. 

DJI Drones

http://wiki.dji.com/en/index.php/Main_page For your convenience all the manufactures 

Specifications and Manuals can be found here. 

DJI Phantom Vision Serial Number PH636055855 

DJI Inspire 1 Serial Number 

Conclusion

Satisfaction of the criteria provided in Section 333 of the Reform Act of 2012--size, weight,

speed, operating capabilities, proximity to airports and populated areas and operation within

visual line of sight and national security – provide more than adequate justification for the grant

of the requested exemptions allowing commercial operation of applicant’s UAS in the

commercial video production industry pursuant to the Manuals appended hereto.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Lauricella

Drone Source International, LLC
Appendix A: Safety Manual

A. Maintenance

1. The UAS must be inspected by a factory trained technician every 10 flight hours. All 

maintenance records will be maintained for inspection as set forth in Section B.

2. If any maintenance is undergone, the UAS must pass a flight test with both a pilot

and a manufacturer trained technician before flight.

B. Record Keeping

1. A digital record will be kept for all flights, flight times, and maintenance records.

C. Securing Flight Site

1. FSDO Submissions

a. The UAS operator will file a FAA Form 7711-1, or its equivalent, as modified in light 

of the requested exemption, with the appropriate Flight

Standards District Office.

 2. Safety Parameter

a. Before filming occurs, a 100 yard perimeter from the planned flight path will be 

 identified in order to set a “sterile” environment for the operation.

b. Volusia Vistas must obtain written or oral permission from all landowners in sterile 

invironment.

c. 48 hours before filming, all residents or businesses within 100 yards of the filming will 

 be notified with printed flyers.

d. Flyers will contain date of flight, time of flight, and contact information.

e. Streets and sidewalks that cross into the sterile environment will be marked with 

 “Warning Low flying Aircraft - Stay Back 150ft” signs to warn the public.

f. At all times Volusia Vistas will carry general liability insurance in case of any damage 

 to property or persons within the safety parameter

D. Identify potential obstacles

1. Before each flight, an inventory will be taken for all potential obstacles that must be 

avoided while in flight. Including:

a. Powerlines

b. Cell Phone Towers

c. Trees

d. Flocks of birds that may take flight

e. Heavily traveled roadways

f. Utility wires

g. Elevated structures

h. At least 5 nautical miles from the nearest airport or helipad.

E. Pre-Flight Checklist

1. Take Off Location/ “Home”

a.The UAS will mark its take off location as a safe area to return to should the UAS 

 lose signal with the control or if the pilot signals the craft to return to its “home”

 location.

b. Take off location will be in an area with a 25ft radius with no obstructions, 

 maintaining said radius vertically 200ft.

c. The UAS will take off and land in the same location.

d. GPS Altimeter will be marked as 0’ elevation

F. Flight Canceling Events
 1. All flights will be cancelled for a minimum of 1 hours if any of the below occur:

 a. Police activity in the area

 b. Low flying aircraft in the area

 c. Medical/News Helicopters active in the area

 d. Wind exceeding 10 mph

 e. Any emergency requiring emergency services occurs within the sterile environment

 f. PIC is unable to complete flight without losing visual of the UAS

 g . Any precipitation

 h. Heavy bird presence in the area that could cause a mid-air collision.

 i. Any defects or damage found during preflight exam

G. Physical Inspection

 1.. Before each flight the UAS will be checked to ensure that it is safe for flight.

 a. Battery voltage will be checked to ensure it is >75%

 b. Blades will be inspected to ensure they are tightened and free of damage

 c. Camera mount and gimbal will be inspected to ensure it is fully attached and 

 operating.

 d. UAS will be checked for any damage that may have taken place in transit.

 e. The UAS will be tested at a low altitude to ensure all controls are responding 

 correctly.

 f. Battery checked for damage that could affect its charge

 h. If any party of the inspecting shows a damaged part or parts, the UAS is deemed 

 non-usable and must be inspected by a factory trained technician.

H. Post Flight Inspections/Checklist

 1.. After each flight, the UAS will be thoroughly inspected for any damage that occurred in 

 flight.

 a. Body inspected for any damage

 b. Blades visually checked for any damage at all

 c. Battery checked for damage

I. Mid-Air Safety Protocol

 1. Max Speed

a. Accent 10m/s

b. Decent 4m/s

c.Flight Speed - The UAS is never to exceed 10m/s

 2. Altitude

 a. The UAS is never to exceed 400ft

 3. Emergency

 a. If it appears that the UAS, any property or humans are at risk, the UAS

 will be grounded immediately to a safe location.

 4. Sight

a. The pilot must keep the UAS within eyesight at all times unassisted by

 any technology.

 5. Participation by non-pilot staff

a. All staff involved in the production or filming using the UAS will consent to

 maintain a safe distance of at least 30 ft during the filming.

 6. Pilot/Spotter Training

a. Before flying, both the Pilot and spotter will receive updated information on the

 UAS and its firmware.

b. The controller allows for a simulator training, both the pilot and spotter are

 allowed to run through the simulator training
Attachment 1. DJI Phantom Vision Specifications

Here is a link to the Full DJI User Manual, Maintenance and safety instructions

http://dl.djicdn.com/downloads/phantom-2-vision/en/Phantom_2_Vision_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf
Attachment 2. DJI Inspire 1 Specifications

Aircraft

Weight 2935g (Battery Included)

Takeoff Weight 3400g

Hovering Accuracy 

(GPS mode) Vertical:0.5m;Horizontal:2.5m

Max Angular Velocity Pitch:300°/s;Yaw:150°/s

Max Tilt Angle 35°

Max Ascent/Descent Speed 5/4 m/s

Max Speed 22m/s(ATTI mode,no wind)

Max Flight Altitude 4500m

Max Wind Speed Resistance 10m/s

Operating Temperature Range -10°~40°C

Max Flight Time Approximately 18 minutes

Indoor Hovering Enabled by default

Remote Controller

 Operating Frequency 

922.7 ~ 927.7 MHz (Japan Only) 

5.725 ~ 5.825 GHz 

2.400 ~ 2.483 GHz 

 Transmitting Distance (outdoor and unobstructed: 2 km 
EIRP 

10dBm@900M 

13dBm@5.8G 

20dBm@2.4G 

 Output Power:9W 

 Battery: 6000 mAh LiPo 2S 

 Max Mobile Device Width:170mm 

Camera

 Total Pixels:12.76M 

 Effective Pixels:12.4M 

 ISO Range:100-3200 (video) 100-1600 (photo) 

 Image Max Size:4000×3000 

 Lens:9 Elements in 9 groups ,Anti-distortion 

Gimbal

 Model:ZENMUSE X3 

 Output Power (with camera):Static:9 W;In Motion:11 W 

 Angular Vibration Range:±0.03° 

 Controllable Range:Pitch:-90° ~ +30°;Pan:±320° 

 Mechanical Range:Pitch:-125° ~ +45°;Pan: ±330° 

 Max Controllable Speed:Pitch:120°/S;Pan: 180°/s 

DJI Pilot APP

 Samsung S5, Note 3, P900 tablet, Sony Z3 EXPERIA, Google Nexus 7 II, Mi 3, Nubia Z7 mini 

 Mobile Device System Requirements: Android version 4.1.2 or later. 

 Support for additional Android devices available as testing and development continues. 

The full DJI Inspire 1 Manual can be found here.

https://dl.djicdn.com/downloads/inspire_1/en/Inspire%20_1_User_Manual__V1.8.pdf
Maintenance Manual

INSPIRE 1

I. Checking the Battery

1. Check the battery for damage and deformities. If there are any signs of damage to the battery, stop

using it and discharge the battery to 10% or below for disposal. Do not disassemble the battery for any

reason.

2. Check the battery pins and rub them clean with an eraser if any residue is observed. This will help to

ensure a more reliable connection.

3. Check the metal battery power connectors for damage. If the connectors appear burnt, try to clear

them. This can be done by inserting a piece of sandpaper (1mm thick) into the connectors to polish

the metal.

4. Check the contact pins in the battery compartment to ensure that the pins are clear. They should be 

able to establish easy contact with the battery connectors and should not be bent.

5. Check the electrodes on the battery. If they appear burnt, polish them with sandpaper. If there is 

serious erosion, send the battery in for repairs.

6. Check the plastic components of the battery bracket to see it is in good condition and that all screws 

are secure. This prevents the battery from becoming loose during flight.

7. Check the power cables between the arms and the center plate, if the cables are worn, contact DJI to

arrange repairs.

8. For long term storage, please refer to the “Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines” and check the

battery once a month to prevent the battery cell from being damaged.

9. Run the DJI Pilot App to confirm that all battery cells are at similar voltage levels and stay at the same 

level when the battery is fully charged. If all cells maintain voltage levels above 3.7V but any cell is 0.2V 

higher or lower than the others, contact DJI for analysis. You can also check the battery cell warning 

history. If any warning are reported, contact DJI.

II. Checking the Transformation System

1. Check the servomotor cables for wear. Also confirm that the connection points are still in good 

condition.

2. Check the lead screws and contact DJI Support to arrange repairs if any bending or damage is

discovered. Clean the lead screws with WD-40 spray if they show signs of rust.

3. Listen to the servomotors during the transformation, if there is abnormal noise, it may indicate that 

the servomotors worn.

4. After the landing gear rises, check the lead screws and bearings. If any dirt or dust is found, clean and

grease the bearings.

5. Check the lead screws. If there is any scratches, dents, or plastic particles underneath them, contact

DJI Support to arrange repairs.

III. Checking the Aircraft

1. Confirm that all the screws are still adequately tightened.

2. Check the aircraft for breaks or damage. If there is any reason to believe that detectable damage 

might affect flight safety, consult with DJI Support.

3. Check the carbon tubes of the arms for damage.

4. Check the dampers on the landing gears. If they are loose, secure them with 502 glue.

5. Ensure that there are no obstacles on or around the GPS module or around the antennas on the 
landing gear. Remove any obstacles (such as tapes with conductive material) that might affect or block 

the signal.

6. Check that the right and left landing gear rest at the same tilt angle. To ensure that your aircraft 

continues to offer optimal performance and to ensure flight safety, it is recommended that 

comprehensive maintenance be performed after every 200 flights or 50 flight hours. This manual is 

intend to help users maintain their aircraft and maximize its continued reliability.

IV. Checking the Motors

1. Check the rotors to confirm that they have not become loose.

2. Detach the propellers and start the motors. Listen carefully. If there is any abnormal noise, please

replace the motors. This may be a sign that the bearings have been worn out.

3. Detach the propellers and start the motors. Carefully examine the edge of the rotor and confirm that 

the shaft is perfectly centered on the motor. Check for any abnormal or excessive vibration. If any

problems are detected, contact DJI Support to order replacement motors.

4. Check for deformities by confirming that the gap between the motor and motor base is even. If not

contact DJI Support to order replacement motors.

5. Ensure that the screws used to secure the motor base are tight and the plastic components around

the motors are in good condition. If not please tighten the screws and contact DJI to repair any broken 

plastic components.

V. Checking the Propellers

1. Check the propellers. If there is any bending, breakage or cracking on a propeller, do not use it.

2. Attach the propeller to the motor, turn on the aircraft, and place it on the ground. Stand 1 meter 

away from the aircraft and observe the rotating propellers. If you can see two distinct propeller outline 

layers, when looking at a spinning propeller from the side, this propeller is damaged and should not be 

used.

VI. Checking the IMU

1. Open DJI Pilot app to check the condition of the IMU and perform an advanced IMU calibration. 

Please place the aircraft in a cool environment and on a flat, stable surface (if the landing gear is 

damaged, support the aircraft with four objects of equal height). Do not touch the craft during the 

calibration.

2. Turn on the aircraft and listen for any abnormal noise or vibration from the fan located on the front of 

the aircraft. If any irregularity is detected, replace the fan.

VII. Checking the Control and Video Transmission System

1. Check the 4 antennas on the landing gear to ensure that they are secure. Also check for any bending 

or damage.

2. Check the antennas of the remote controller for damage

3. Check the neck strap for damage or wear, replace if necessary.

VIII. Checking the Gimbal and Camera

1. The quick-mount connector for the camera is a particularly vulnerable component. If the gimbal

fails to initialize when turned on, fails to work after initialization, or fails to transmit video to the app

(while OSD data is displayed), the quick-mount connector may be worn. In this case, replace the

rubber mat, circuit board, and/or connector on the gimbal quick-mount.

2. Check the metal contacts on the quick mount connector board, if any contact is bent, replace the 

quick-mount connector.
3. Check the contact pins on the quick-mount connector board, if there is any dirt, rub it clean with an 

eraser. If any contact pins are worn out it should be replaced.

4. Confirm that the gimbal is able to properly stabilize itself. If its stabilizing performance deteriorates,

contact DJI to arrange repairs.

5. Listen for any abnormal noise from the fan when the gimbal is turned on. This may indicate unusual

vibration and the fan should be replaced.

IX. Checking the Vision Positioning System

1. Check the lens of the camera. If any dirt or residue is detected, gently clean the lens.

2. Check for and remove objects that might block the sensors.

3. Ensure that the Vision Positioning System is securely installed on the aircraft.

4. Detach the propellers and turn on the aircraft. Hold the aircraft 1-2 meters above a surface with rich

patterns, under good lighting conditions. Change the Flight Mode switch to P Mode on the controller

and check the DJI Pilot app. If the app displays an altitude value and indicates that P-OPTI mode is active, 

the Vision Positioning System should function normally.

The content is subject to change.

Download the latest version from

http://www.dji.com/product/inspire-1/download

Support Center Contact Info:

http://www.dji.com/support

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 2
INSPIRE 1

安全使用指南

Safety Guidelines

V1.0 2014.12

Reading Inspire 1 Manuals

The following tutorials and manuals have been produced to help you make full use of your DJI Inspire 1:

1. In The Box

2. Disclaimer and Warning

3. Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines

4. INSPIRE 1 Safety Guidelines

5. INSPIRE 1 Quick Start Guide

6. INSPIRE 1 User Manual

Check all of the included parts listed in the In The Box document. Read the Disclaimer and Warning,

Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines, and INSPIRE 1 Safety Guidelines before flight. Then prepare 

for

your first flight by using the INSPIRE 1 Quick Start Guide and watching all of the tutorial videos. If you 

have

questions, refer to the INSPIRE 1 User Manual for more comprehensive information. Experienced users,

particularly those who have previously used DJI products, may choose to skip to the Inspire 1 Quick Start

Guide to begin preparing for flight.

Individual Parts

Remote Controller

1. Linking is required if you wish to replace your remote controller or receiver, or add a new remote 

controller.

Refer to the user manual for more information about how to link the aircraft.

2. If the remote controller is powered on and has not been used for 5 minutes, it will sound an alert. After 

10

minutes it will automatically power off. Move the sticks or perform some other action to cancel the alert.

3. A Slave remote controller cannot be linked with the aircraft and cannot control the aircraft’s flight. You 

may

change it to a Master remote controller via the DJI Pilot app, and then link it to the aircraft to control flight.

4. Ensure the Mobile Device Holder is firmly in place and does not slip.

5. For the GPS in the remote controller to function properly, and the Dynamic Home Point to be accurate,

ensure the DJI logo is facing the sky and keep the remote controller away from any metal objects.

6. Repair or replace the remote controller if damaged. A damaged remote controller antenna will greatly

decrease performance.

7. When on the go, you may charge the remote controller from the aircraft’s Intelligent Flight Battery.

Camera

1. Photos or videos cannot be transmitted or copied from the camera if the Intelligent Flight Battery is 

powered off.

2. Be sure to power off the Intelligent Flight Battery correctly, otherwise your camera parameters will not 

be saved

and any recorded videos may be damaged.

3. Test the camera by shooting a few test images to check that it is operating correctly before shooting 

important

pictures.

4. Respect the privacy of others when using the camera. Make sure you comply with local privacy laws, 

regulations

and moral standards.

5. Check camera settings before use to make sure you can adjust them to fit your needs.

Gimbal

1. The gimbal and gimbal connector are very delicate. Handle with care and do not touch the gimbal
connector, as any damage will cause it to function abnormally.

2. A gimbal motor error may occur if: (1) The aircraft is placed on uneven ground or other objects obstruct

the gimbal’s full range of motion, or (2) The gimbal has undergone an excessive impact, e.g. a collision.

Please only takeoff from flat, open areas and protect the gimbal after powering up.

3. Hold the gimbal firmly when detaching or reattaching it, so it does not drop.

4. Do not add any payloads to the gimbal, as this may cause the gimbal to function abnormally, or even

2 © 2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.

EN

lead to motor damage.

5. Precision elements in the gimbal may be damaged by a collision or impact, which will cause the gimbal

to function abnormally.

Compass

1. Ensure the compass is calibrated before every flight. Failure to calibrate may lead to a poor flight

performance or even failure.

2. DO NOT calibrate your compass where there is a chance of strong magnetic interference. This 

includes areas

where there are massive metal objects, parking structures, steel reinforcements underground, or under 

bridges.

3. DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration, such as keys or mobile phones.

4. The compass should always be recalibrated when moving from indoor spaces to outdoor spaces.

5. If the rear LED shows a solid red light, compass calibration has failed. Please recalibrate.

6. After successful calibration, the compass may become abnormal when you put the aircraft on the

ground. This is because of magnetic interference that may be underground. Move the aircraft to another

location and try again.

Parameter Settings

The Inspire 1 features a built-in flight control system to make operation as safe as possible. However, it is

good practice to remove all propellers before switching it on for calibration or changing other parameter

settings.

Battery

Refer to the Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines and battery sticker for usage and maintenance 

information.

Storage and Transportation

1. Store the Intelligent Flight Battery and remote controller in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight,

to ensure the built-in LiPo battery does not overheat. Recommended storage temperature: between

22°C and 28°C for storage periods of more than three months. Never store in environments outside the

temperature range of -20°C to 45°C.

2. Do not allow the camera to come into contact with, or become immersed in, water or other liquids. If it

gets wet, wipe dry with a soft, absorbent cloth. Turning on an aircraft that has fallen into water may cause

permanent component damage. Do not use substance containing alcohol, benzene, thinners or other

flammable substances to clean or maintain the camera. Do not store the camera in humid or dusty areas.

3. Always keep all parts out of the reach of children, as the cables, straps or small parts may be 

dangerous

if swallowed. If swallowed, go to the hospital immediately.

4. Detach the gimbal from the Inspire 1 when storing for a long period of time or transporting over long

distances. Also replace the Gimbal Cover when storing.

Maintenance and Upkeep

1. Check every part of the aircraft if it is violently impacted. If you have any problems or questions, please

contact a DJI authorized dealer.

2. Old, chipped, or broken propellers or motors should never be used.

3. Regularly check the Battery Level Indicators to see the current battery level and overall battery life. 

When

the battery life reaches 0%, it can no longer be used.

4. After every 50 hours of flight time, DJI recommends you perform a thorough inspection of your Inspire 

1

and all of its parts and components to ensure the safe operation of your aircraft.

© 2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 3
EN

Flight Environment Requirements

1. Do not use the aircraft in severe weather conditions. These include wind speed exceeding 10m/s, 

snow,

rain, smog, heavy wind, hail, lightning, tornado or hurricane.

2. Do not use the aircraft in dust or sandstorms.

3. Fly in open areas, as tall buildings or steel structures may affect the accuracy of the onboard compass

and block the GPS signal.

4. Keep the aircraft away from obstacles, people, animals, high voltage power lines, trees, and bodies of

water when in flight.

5. Avoid interference between the remote controller and other wireless equipment. Make sure to turn off 

the

Wi-Fi on your mobile device.

6. Do not fly near areas with magnetic or radio interference. These include but are not limited to: high

voltage lines, large scale power transmission stations, mobile base stations and broadcasting towers.

Failing to do so may compromise the transmission quality of this product, cause remote controller and

video transmission errors may affect flight orientation and location accuracy. The aircraft may behave

abnormally or fall out of control in areas with too much interference.

7. P mode is unavailable in polar zones. Users can use ATTI mode instead.

8. Do not fly the aircraft within no-fly zones specified by local laws and regulations.

Flight Warnings

Failsafe and Return to Home

1. Return to Home will not work if the GPS signal is insufficient or GPS is not active.

2. Press the RTH Button on the remote controller to bring the aircraft back to the Home Point instead of

turning off the remote controller.

3. Tall buildings may adversely affect the Failsafe function. Please adjust the aircraft location, altitude and

speed while returning home to avoid obstacles.

4. Make sure to always fly the aircraft within the transmission range of the remote controller.

5. When updating the Home Point, do not block the GPS signal of the remote controller and ensure the 

new

Home Point is correct on the live map.

6. Do not update the Home Point near tall buildings, as the GPS may be blocked and lead to an incorrect

location being stored.

7. Only use the Failsafe and Return to Home functions in case of emergency, as they may be affected by

the weather, the environment, or any nearby magnetic fields.

Low Battery

1. When the Critical Battery Level Warning activates and the aircraft is descending automatically, you 

may

push the throttle upward to hover the aircraft and navigate it to a more appropriate location for landing.

2. When battery warnings are triggered, please bring the aircraft back to the Home Point or land to avoid

losing power during flight.

Vision Positioning System

1. The Vision Positioning System cannot work properly over surfaces that do not have pattern variations.

The effective altitude for Vision Positioning System to function correctly is less than 2.5 meters.

2. Vision Positioning System may not function properly when the aircraft is flying over water.

3. Vision Positioning System may not be able to recognize patterns on the ground in low light conditions 

(less

than 100 lux).

4. Keep your pets away from the aircraft when Vision Positioning System is activated, as the sonar 

sensors

emit high frequency sound that is only audible to some pets.

5. Note that Visual Positioning System may not function properly when the aircraft is flying too fast or too 

low.

EN

4 © 2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.

Transformation Function
1. Ensure the landing gear is lowered before landing.

2. Stay away from the aircraft when it is transforming to prevent injury.

3. DO NOT attempt to catch the aircraft, as the landing gear will lower if the Visual Positioning system

detects an object and may cause injury.

4. Keep the aircraft arms clean, otherwise transformation may be affected.

5. Never apply lubricants to aircraft arms.

Others

1. If you are using a phone as your mobile display device, be sure to continue flying safely if you receive 

an

incoming call.

2. Land as soon as possible if there is an alert shown on the DJI Pilot app.

3. Upon landing, power off the aircraft first, then switch off the remote controller.

Preflight Checklist

1. Check that all parts are in good condition. Do not fly with aging or damaged parts.

2. Remote controller, Intelligent Flight Battery and mobile device are all fully charged.

3. Propellers are mounted correctly and securely.

4. Lens is clear.

5. Micro-SD card has been inserted, if necessary.

6. Gimbal is functioning as normal.

7. Gimbal is correctly attached to the aircraft.

8. Motors can start and are functioning as normal.

9. The DJI Pilot app can connect to the camera and all firmware has been updated to the latest version.

EN

© 2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 5