1 **UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION**  **FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION**

**WASHINGTON, DC**

**IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:**

**John Pennic k**  **FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF**
**TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS**  **SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.1 51(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1),**  **91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION** 

**OF DJI Phantom 3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM** 
**PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF**
**THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012**

**(PUBLIC LAW 112**
**- 95)** 

Submitted on June 22 , 2015 John Pennick 318 E. via Puente de las Rosas Sahuarita, AZ 85629 408

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- 7444 john@pennick.com2 **TABLE OF CONTENTS**
GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS.....................................

......... ............... ....... ...................... .. ..3
SUMMARY...................................................................................................................

. .... . . . ...4 INTRODUCTIO N AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER...........................................

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

.............................. .. .... 4 BASIS FOR PETITION............................................................................................

... ........ . . . . . ....4 NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER.........................................................

...................... . . ....6 THE SPECIFIC S ECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH JOHN PENNICK SEEKS EXEMPTION...............................................................

........................................................ . . .. ..6 THE EXTENT OF RELIEF JOHN PENNICK SEEKS AND THE REASON JOHN PENNICK SEEKS THE RELIEF....................

........................................................................................................... . . .. . ...9
THE REASONS WHY GRANTING JOHN PENNICK’S REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ................................

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

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

......................................................... ........... ..................13
SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER...

................................... ...23 ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT JOHN PENNICK ’S REQUEST.......

...................................... ............................... ..23

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

.... .....................24

DJI PHANTOM 3 OPERATION MANUEL IS ATTACHED3 **GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS**
AGL Above Ground Level
AOI Area of Interest
ATC Air Traffic Control
ATO Air Traffic Organization
AV Aeri al Vehicle
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
COA Certificate of Authorization
FAA Federal Aviation Administration
FAR Federal Aviation Regulation
GCS Ground Control Station
GPS Global Positioning System
LOL Loss of Link
NAS National Airspace System
NOTAM Notice to Ai rman PIC Pilot In Command
Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333
SO Safety Observer
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
UA Unmanned Aircraft
UAS Unmanned Aircraft System
VFR Visual Flight Rules
VLOS Visual Line of Site
VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions
VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 **SUMMARY** JOHN PENNICK seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405 (a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit JOHN PENNICK to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.
**INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER** JOHN PENNICK provides his clients with photography and vid eography of properties for the purpose of advertising. JOHN PENNICK has hundreds of hours Hobby RC flying experience and over 6 years flying Hobby RC Helicopters with video and camera attachments. The objective of JOHN PENNICK and his aerial operations is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of commercial, public, and residential uses, speci fically targeting: • Residential Construction • Real

-estate marketing • Filmmaking
**BACKGROUND** Unmanned Aircraft System: DJI Phantom 3 UAS
JOHN PENNICK seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. Th e DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, a length of 17.3 inches, width of 17.7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 42 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 UA is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors.

**BASIS FOR PETITION** Petitioner, JOHN PENNICK, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Refo rm Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 1 4 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).5

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, J OHN PENNICK 's operation of DJI Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Accordingly, JOHN PENNICK requests relief from Sections 91. 405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate

. JOHN PENNICK submits that the requested relief is proper since an equ ivalent level of safety will be ensured. JOHN PENNICK will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e ., Monthly Maintenance Log and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, JOHN PENNICK will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by JOHN PENNICK to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate , as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrat ed, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from peopl e, vessels, vehicles and structures.
JOHN PENNICK seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, JOHN PENNICK submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UA is in an airw orthy condition, prior to every fl ig ht, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e ., Monthly Maintenance Log and the DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight.
JOHN PENNICK also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 3 U A will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. Howev er, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UA will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the U A to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with JOHN PENNICK’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 9 1.121. Additionally, JOHN PENNICK seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. JOHN PENNICK submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI P hantom 3 UA during dayl ight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC)6

under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after t hat for at least 4.5 minutes. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, JOHN PENNICK provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption :

**A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.** The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is: John Pennick 318 E. via Puente de las Rosas Sahuarita, AZ 85629 408

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- 7444 john@pennick.com

**B. The Speci fic Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which**  **JOHN PENNICK Seeks Exemption.** 
**1. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Req uirements Of Section**  **61.113(a) a nd (b).**  Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part: (a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft. (b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection w ith any business or employment if

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

**2. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).**  Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a), states the following: (a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.7

**3. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91 .121.**  Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in part: (a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating

-- (1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to

-- (i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft; (ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or (iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure air port or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure.
**4. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).** Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection (b), states the following: (b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 minutes.

**5. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).** Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: Each owner or operator of an aircraft

— (a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]

**6. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requ irements Of Section 91.407(a)(1)**  Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration, subsection (a)(1), states the following:8

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless

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

**7. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).**  Section 91.409, entitled Inspections, subsection (a), states the following: (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, with in the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had

-- (1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or (2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.

**8. JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.417(a) And 91.417(b).** Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records, subsections (a) and (b), state the followin g: (a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods speci fied in paragraph (b) of this section: (1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 100

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

-- (i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and (ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and (iii) The signature, and certifica te number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service.

(2) Records containing the following information: (i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each rotor.9

(ii) The current status of life

- limit ed parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance. (iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a speci fied time basis. (iv) The current inspection status of the airc raft, including the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained.
(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required.
(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9( d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances.

(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed: (1) The records speci fied in para graph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the work is performed. (2) The records speci fied in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and transferred with the ai rcraft at the time the aircraft is sold. (3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.
**C. The Extent Of Relief**  **JOHN PENNICK Seeks And The Reason**  **JOHN PENNICK Seeks The Relief.**  **1. Extent Of Relief JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks And The Reason JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Relief From**  **Section 61.113(a) And (b).** Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot or higher level certificate , as well as a current and valid airman medica l certificate, and who has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private p ilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.10

As set forth more fully below, JOHN PENNICK submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC i s able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations speci fications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people , vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, JOHN PENNICK submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to JOHN PENNICK’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers o r property for compensation or hire. **2. Extent Of Relief JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks And The Reason JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).**  Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, is requested to the extent required to allow JOH N PENNICK to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the JOHN PENNICK Aerial Operations Manual, Mo nthly Maintenance Log, and the DJI P hantom 3 Instruction Manual).
JOHN PENNICK seeks t he requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, JOHN PENNICK will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e ., Monthly Maintenance Log, and the DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraf t are in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below. **3. Extent Of Relief JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks And The Reason JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.**  Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be req uired to allow flight operations of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS) . Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), JOHN PENNICK seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight. Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable co nditions and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Phantom 3 UA 's altitude information will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio11

co mmunications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path.

**4. Extent Of Relief JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks And The Reason JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).**  Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitl ed Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJ I Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total durat ion of 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. JOHN PENNICK seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration o f the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that JOHN PENNICK proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. Signi ficantly, as set forth below, the technical speci ficati ons of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS's operating documents, and JOHN PENNICK’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that JOHN PENNICK will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. **5. Extent Of Relief JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks And The Reason**  **JOHN PENNICK Seeks Relief From Sections**  **91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).** Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate , JOHN PENNICK requests relief from these Sections because the DJI Phan tom 3 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate . As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet s the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate . Accordingly, JOHN PENNICK will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and pra ctices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the JOHN PENNICK Aerial Operations Manua l, Monthly Maintenance Log, and the DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, JOHN PENNICK will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. **D. The Reasons Why Granting JOHN PENNICK**  **Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Bene** **fit The Public As A Whole.** Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing JOHN PENNICK to safely, efficie ntly, and economically perform aerial video and photography of real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.12

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide signi ficant ben efits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of JOHN PENNICK’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

**1. The Public Will Bene fit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.**  The DJI Phantom 3 UA is batte ry powered and serve s as a safe, ef ficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating i n the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The DJI Phantom 3 UA do es not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

**2. The Public Will Bene fit From The Safety An**  **d Ef ficiency Of The DJI Phantom 3**  **UAS.** Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly bene fit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operat ions. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS produce s no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20

- 30 gallons per hour of leaded avia tion fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 UA, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UAs are propelled by ba ttery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. By using the DJI Phantom 3 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with traditional ma nned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 UA ( gross weight of 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, a length of 17.3 inches, width of 17. 7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 42 knots and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons).13

**3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **Will Bene fit The**  **Economy.** In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will allow United States b ased companies, like JOHN PENNICK, to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Speci fically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded aviation fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility compared to ma nned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft. By operating the DJI Phantom 3 UAS companies such as JOHN PENNICK, can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job sta bility to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spend ing; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United States and abroad. **4. There Are No Privacy Issues.** Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, JOHN PENNICK’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Speci fically, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., the JOHN PENNICK Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and the DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement noti fication, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. **E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level**  **Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks Exemption. 1. Reasons Why the DJI Phantom 3 UA**  **Meet The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333.**  In consideration of the size, weigh t, speed, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, JOHN PENNICK’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet s the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 1 4 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.14

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certi fication and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threa t to national security. Speci fically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part: (a) In General.

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

-- In making the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum

-- (1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximi ty 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 auth orization, or airworthiness certi fication under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identi fied under paragraph (1). (c) Requirements for Safe Operation.

-- If the Secretary determines unde r this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system. In seeking this exemption , JOHN PENNICK submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; (b) the pilot certi fication requirement; and (c) the specific operating limita tions. **a. The Speci fications Of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **Demonstrate s**  **Its Safe Characteristics.** The DJI Phantom 3 UAS do es not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, sp eed, and operational capability. **i. Technical Speci** **fications Of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS**
**.** The technical speci fications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual , attached hereto. **ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UAS**  **To Remain Within A De** **fined Operational Area.** The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the fligh t and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provi ded in the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual , attached hereto

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**iii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS is Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of**  **Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.** When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UA will rema in stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UA do es not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAs will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UAs will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode ) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown. A complete description of Failsafe Functions and the flight control software of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided in the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto. **b. Flight Operations Of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A**  **Certificate d Pilot in**  **Command With A Safety Observer.**
JOHN PENNICK will be the only person to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS

. Additionally, a safety observer will assist in flights.

**c. Flights Of**  **the DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Speci** **fic Operating Limitations.** In seeking this exemption, JOHN PENNICK p roposes to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following speci fic operating limitations: 1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: and DJI Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant

. 2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of aerial video and photography. 3. The UAs may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots. 4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures speci fied in the operating documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 5. The UAs must be operated within vis ual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as speci fied on the PIC’s FAA

- issued airman medical certificate

. 6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted. 7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight16

operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents. 8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic an d other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments. 9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operatin g documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated and revi sed documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents. 10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe fl ight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the pre flight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records. 11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records. 12. The pre

-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g . inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating documents. 13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. 14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS to service. 15. Each UASs operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety Bull etins.17

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections. 17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current third

- cl ass medical certificate

. 18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s quali fication criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC quali fication flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purpos es of training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, pro ficiency, and experience

- building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not a uthorized. 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 airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request. 21. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horiz ontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC. 22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS s ignal, it must return to a pre

- determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accord ance with the operating documents. 23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operating documents. 24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast we ather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining. 25. The operator must obtain an Air Traf fic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorizat ion (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations sh all be conducted in accordance with18

airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements. 26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identi fied by serial numb er, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identi fication (N

- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC a t the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. 29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times. 30. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: a. Barriers or structures are present that suf fi ciently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protect ion and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PI C has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and; c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a). 32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- access property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted. 33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as de fined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Of fi ce (AFS

- 80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.19

**2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not**  **Adversely Affect Safety.**
JOHN PENNICK submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PI C is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, veh icles and structures. Considering JOHN PENNICK’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forth

above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, JOHN PENNICK submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificate d pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for JOHN PENNICK’s speci fic proposed flight operations. The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) speci fic to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).
JOHN PENNICK will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour requirements or the DJI Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive an d emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Speci fically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 9 0 days (for currency purposes). As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during JOHN PENNICK’s proposed operations . The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows: In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi

- rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption. For clari fication, t he FAA20

consi ders these minimum hour requirements to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be included in the 10 hours of multi

- rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In ad dition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight

- hour requirements in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build profi ciency in the skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, pro ficiency, and experience

- building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. Accordingly, JOHN PENNICK will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to s afely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. **3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not Adversely Affect**  **Safety.** The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every fl ight, JOHN PENNICK will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition based up on the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations herein. Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) speci fic to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to th ose presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). **4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Woul d Not Adversely Affect**  **Safety.** The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UA will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with JOHN PENNICK’s operation of the and DJI Phantom 3 UAs within visua l line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UASs at ground level.21

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 speci fic to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 1 1150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). **5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.**  A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R . Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical speci fications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS ; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, JOHN PENNICK will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for a t least 4.5 minutes. Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical speci fications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety establishe d by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide s audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UA experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will descend and land automaticall y. Signi ficantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned ai rcraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 speci fic to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). **6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Require ments Of Sections**  **91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely**  **Affect Safety.** In seeking this exemption, JOHN PENNICK submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alt eration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because JOHN PENNICK will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the JOHN PENNICK Aerial Operations Manua l, Monthly Maintenance Log, and the DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, JOHN PENNICK will document and maintain all main tenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS . Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, JOHN22

PENNICK will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual is attached hereto. Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because JOHN PENNICK will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenance on the UAS using th e methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating documents. Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Signi ficantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. In consideration of JOHN PENNICK’s proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, a nd the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, JOHN PENNICK submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief speci fic to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 1115 7, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). **7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions Fo r Safe Operation.**  In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, JOHN PENNICK requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions fo r the intended operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a) , 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAs for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. F MRA 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 airworthi ness certi fication in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS. Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, since the airworthiness regulat ions 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:23

If the FAA fi nds 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. **See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.** Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe spe cial conditions for JOHN PENNICK’s intended op eration of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.15 1(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). **• A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules From Which**  **John Pennick Seeks Exemption:** 
JOHN PENNICK seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

**A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption JOHN PENNICK**  **Seeks:** This exemption will permit JOHN PENNICK to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. **• Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support JOHN PENNICK** **’s Request.**  This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, JOHN PENNICK’s request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a thre at to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certi fication. As discussed in detail above, JOHN PENNICK will operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security.24 **CONCLUSION** As set forth herein, JOHN PENNICK seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which wi ll perm it safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be ful filling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing JOHN PENNICK to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially within th e NAS. **WHEREFORE**, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, JOHN PENNICK respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a ) & (b), and permit John Pennick to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photograp hy over certain areas of the United States. Dated: June 22 , 2015 Respectfully submitted, John Pennick 318 E. via Puente de las Rosas Sahuarita, AZ 85629 408

- 857

- 7444 john@pennick.com



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