March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. 

# M3 PARTNERS

&

WHITE TOP UAS

GENERAL OPERATING MANUAL FOR

UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM S (UAS)March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. 

## P URPOSE

This manual has been prepared to cover the policies and procedures governing the operation of

th e flight department of M3 Partners LLC (herein referred to as M3) doing business as (DBA)
White Top UAS . The purpose of this manual is to ensure the utmost in safety of operation and
the general efficiency of the flight department. It provides concrete gui delines to enable all
employees of M3 to accomplish assigned tasks and responsibilities in accordance with FAA
regulations and guidelines.



## D ISTRIBUTION

A copy of this manual will be located at the following:

- M3 Partners headquarters, Greenville SC

- Each UAS operational location



## R EVISION 

## C ONTROL

In accordance with FAR 135.21(a), revisions will be prepared by the Director of Operations.
Each revision will have a revision number with date in upper right hand corner of the page.

Revisions will be consecutive . All revisions will be approved by M3 Maintenance and Safety

Directors.



## R EVISION 

## R ECORD

Upon receipt of new revision old GOM will be deleted

. A master copy of all revisions will be kept
electronically.

New material in the latest revision will be marked with an underline under the new text to make

identification easier.



## A PPLICABILITY

All UAS operations conducted by M3 will be done for compensation with the exception of :

- Training flights

- Maintenance flights

All UAS operations shall comply with weather mi nimums listed in FAR 91



## S AFETY 

## M ANAGEMENT 

## S YSTEM 

## (SMS)

M3 has adopted a Safety Management System (SMS)

. M3 will implement the SMS in all
aspects of UAS operations to include maintenance, planning, training and execution.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. 

## Table of Contents

Purpose

Distribu tion

Revision control

Revision record

Application

Safety Management System

I. General Information

a. Orga nizational Management Personnel

b. Organizational Dutie s

II. Flight Operations General

a. Operational Control

b. Accident Notification

c. Daily Flight Log

d. UAS Training / C urrency

e. Hazards/Hazard mapping

f. Hazard Map

– Local Area

g. Deteriorating weather conditions

h. Documents required with UAS

III. Emergency Notification

IV. Personnel Qualifications

V. Preflight PreparationsMarch	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. a. Risk Assessment Program

b. NOTAM Submission

c. Temporary Flight R estrictions ( TFR )

d. Weather Sources and Providers Approved for UAS Flight Planning

VI. Flight Operations

a. Flight Route

b. Flight Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

c. Landing Zone Safety and Crowd Control

d. Maximum Altitude for UAS

e. Flight Notification

VII. Maintenance Operations

a. Maintenance Control

b. UAS Air Worthiness Check

c. Preventative Maintenance Plan

d. Unplanned Maintenance

e. Maintenance Action Form

f. Maintenance Inspection after Incident

g. Maintenance Operationa l Check

h. Maintenance Tracking

VIII. Safety Management SystemMarch	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

.



## I. G ENERAL 

## I NFORMATION

This manual sets forth M3’ procedures and policies that are acceptable to the Administrator of

the Federal Avi ation Administration. M3 will keep this manual current with revisions as necessary. M3 maintains one copy of this manual in current form at the principal base of operations located at PO Box 4055 Greenville, SC 29608. The Director of Operations will

mainta in the original copy of this manual. He/She will have the responsibility to keep it current,

and to see that all new revisions are forwarded to the Chief PIC

.

M3 disburses copies of this manual in the following manner: • One (1) copy of the complete man ual will be kept with each UAS PIC. The PIC

- in

- Command will make this manual available to ground and flight personnel for their use when the UAS is away from home base.

• One (1) copy of the complete manual will be kept at each base of operations so that the PIC s, ground, and maintenance personnel may have access to the copy at any time. All M3’ personnel must use this manual in conducting all operations. As required by FAR 135.293(a)(1),

all PIC s will be tested at least annually on their knowledge of this manual via the CTS training software (GOM Module). All personnel shall have knowledge of this Manual in its entirety.

• The Chief PIC will have a copy of this manual at their office. It will be the Chief PIC ’s responsibility to maintain a current copy in all UAS and on the M3 intranet.

• Other persons as assigned.

NOTE: A PDF (portable document format) version of the General Operations Manual and Operations Specifications posted on the M3 intranet or stored on the base computer and

available for review by all M3’ employees may be utilized for each base of operations as a replacement for a “hard copy.”

M3 will also furnis h any local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as required with a current and co mplete copy of the manual. The Director of Operations will furnish the FAA with all requests for changes and additions to this manual in a timely manner.

Great care has been taken to ensure that this manual is not contrary to any applicable Federal
regul ations, M3 ’ Operating Certificate, or M3 ’ Operations Specifications. However, errors do
sometimes occur despite all efforts. If you find such a conflict; the regulation, certificate, or
operations specification will take precedence. You are required to bri ng any such conflicts to the
attention of the Director of Operations for correction

.



### Organizational Management Personnel [135.23, 119.69]March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. M3 has appointed the following persons to the management positions listed:

Martin Fisher ........................

............................... .............. ..... Director of Operations Andrew Templeton ......................................................

. ......... . Director of Maintenance

Michael Middleton..

............................................... ...... ............ Chief PIC A listing of all certificate PIC s will be maintained by the Chief PIC

.



### Organizational Duties

Director of Operations (DO)

• Reports to President, UAS Services.

• Communicates with the FAA and the NTSB as required

.

• Coordinates with the Director of Maintenance the timely correction of mechanical irregularities and discrepancies.

• Develops and approve Operations Department policies and procedures, to include the General Operations Manual, personnel pol icy, and all other policies which affect Company Operations.

• Devises revi sions to this manual as needed then distributes those revisions to the Chief PIC

.

• Ensures that all flight operations are conducted safely and in compliance with all FARs, Oper ations Specifications, and M3 ’ policies/procedures.

• Has authority to act for the signing of FAA correspondence and operations specifications.

• Notifies the FAA or NTSB of any accidents, incidents, or other significant events.

• Oversees the develo pment and implementation of the budget for the Operations Department.

• Responsible for issuing bulletins and periodically reviewing these for continued validity and pertinence.

• Responsible for maintaining the master copy of the General Operations Ma nual/Operations Specifications.

• Serves as a member of the M3 Corporation Safety Round Table.

• Disseminates information to all flight crewmembers pertaining to regulations and company policies/procedures.

• Actively participates in the Safety Mana gement System (SMS) implementation and initiatives. Familiar with the SMS Policy Manual and SMS Procedures.

Chief Pilot

- In

- Command (C

- PIC )March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. • Reports to the Director of Operations.

• Supervises PIC s in Command and Visual Observers

• Advises the Director of Operations r egarding out

- of

- compliance issues.

• Advises the Director of Operations regarding the training of personnel.

• Assists the Director of Operations in the development of the Training Department.

• Manages the new hire PIC program to include hiring requ irements, the review of background

checks and PIC Record Improvement Act information and coordinates with Human Resources.

• Assists the Director of Operations in the oversight of flight operations, formulating operations policies, coordinates those poli cies, and coordinates operations and training.

• Develops the PIC and crewmember training manuals/programs and UAS checklists.

• Ensures that PIC’s are equipped with required company flight publications (Charts, Jeppesen, NOAA, UAS Flight Manuals etc.) . Ensures publications are revised in a timely manner.

• Ensures that M3 ’ UAS are properly equipped for applicable operations.

• Ensures that all flight crew personnel are current, certified, and qualified, in accordance with the requirements specified in the FARs.

• Ensures that the PIC’s have copies of this General Operation Manual Revisions shall be submitted by the Chief PIC

.

• In the absence or unavailability of the Director of Operations the Chief PIC will assume those

duties.

• Provides sup ervision to all company PIC’s concerning regulatory issues.

• Responsible for ensuring UAS procedures are standardized throughout the M3 fleet.

• Responsible for ensuring the logging/tracking of the Record of Airman Flight and Duty Time

forms in PIC 4 11 (a sample of this form can be found in the Appendix of this manual

– the actual form is generated automatically from the PIC 411 application). These forms are required to be filed by the 10th day of the following month.

• Responsible for ensuring the maintenance of proficiency records, PIC files, duty time records, reports, and correspondence pertaining to flight operations activities in accordance with the

FARs.

• Responsible for the development of policies for M3 Flight and Ground Instructors

• Serves as a member of the M3 Corporation Safety Action Round Table.

• Submits all reports regarding flight personnel to the Director of Operations.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. • Supervises all training activities of flight crew personnel including training sched ules.

• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Operations. • Actively participates in the Safety Management System (SMS) implementation and initiatives

f amiliar with the SMS Policy Manual and SMS Procedures.

Pilot

- In

- Command (PIC) [135.67 ]

• Reports to the Chief PIC

.

• Final authority for the safety of all flights which they initiate.

• Exercises second tier operational control as defined in this manual.

• Accomplishes and properly documents preflight inspections and inspects maint enance documents, to include status sheet, upon arrival for duty to determine the airworthiness of the

UAS . Reports any discrepancies to maintenance and documents appropriately.

• Attends monthly meetings and program training activities

.

• Completes all training and qualification events required to maintain currency as dictated

.

• Conducts all flight operations in complianc e with the FARs, this General Operations Manual

, and M3 policies/procedures.

• Ensures full and proper c ompletion of all flight/maintenance logs, Load Manifest forms and the securing of the UAS at the completion of the flight.

• Ensures that a flight briefing is conducted with appropriate communications facility. These briefings will include, but are no t limited to; UAS status , hazards map updates, forecast and current weather, pending flight profiles.

• Ensures their assigned navigation charts and documents are current and up to date.

• Ensures the Regional Aviation Director is notified in the event of encounters with the FAA such as ramp checks; base visits, or request to contact ATC. Notification may be made by email or by phone during normal duty hours. The notification shall include but not be limited to location, date, time, Inspector name, area s covered and areas of concern.

• Maintains positive customer relations.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. • Performs a complete inspection of UAS , prior to flight and upon completion of each flight.

• Required to complete flight logs prior to the end of each mission

.

• Advises the Chief PIC of any issues (including maintenance) that would take UAS out of service for any significant period of time.

• Responsible for becoming familiar with all pertinent information regarding all flights, including, but not limited to NOTAMs, TFRs, weather information, etc.

• Completes all flight assignments in a safe and professional manner. The PIC is responsible for assuring that the VO make safety the number one priority in all activities.

• Responsible for correcting compliance or safety iss ues when directed by the Director of Operations, Chief PIC , Director of Maintenance and Director of Safety.

• Responsible for maintaining their qualifications in keeping with the requirements outlined in the FARs, and this General Operations Manual for th eir assigned position.

• Responsible for protecting M3 UAS from damage and weather.

• Reports potentially hazardous meteorological conditions and irregularities of communications

o r navigation facilities to appropriate ground radio station as soon as practicable.

• Submits copies of any new or reissued Airman’s Certificate or Medical Certificate to the Program Aviation Manager who will scan or convert it to a PDF file and forward it electronically

to the Chief PIC

.

• Will not fly a UAS with a known deficiency until the deficiency is cleared in writing by

maintenance or deferred under the MEL.

• Actively participates in the Safety Management System (SMS) implementation and initi atives

f amiliar with the SMS Policy Manual and SMS Procedures.

• Performs other duties as assigned

Director of Maintenance

• Reports to President of UAS services

.

. • Ensures M3 UAS are maintain ed in an airworthy condition.

• Ensures all necessary work records and log books, including certification in the UAS permanent maintenance records, that the UAS is approved for return to service.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. • Ensures compliance with applicable Federal Aviation Re gulations, manufactures maintenance procedures, airworthiness directives and service bulletins/service letters issued by M3 certificate management team.

• Ensures proper training of all maintenance technicians.

• Ensures that all maintenance technician s are certified and supervised according to the requirements specified in the Federal Aviation Regulations.

• Maintains a close liaison with manufacturer’s representatives, parts supply vendors, repair facilities, and the FAA.

• Makes available to maint enance personnel; this General Operations Manual, the applicable manufacturer’s maintenance manuals, service bulletins, service letters, and any other required technical data. Ensures all maintenance personnel have a thorough knowledge of all o f these

items.

• Provides the Director of Operations with the current status of the UAS and the forecast down times to facilitate maintenance scheduling and ensure timely deferral or correction of UAS discrepancies.

• Responsible for issuing bulletins and periodically reviewing these for continued validity and pertinence.

• Actively participates in the Safety Management System (SMS) implementation and initiatives

f amiliar with the SMS Policy Manual and SMS Procedures.

• Performs other duties as assi gned.



## II. F LIGHT 

## O PERATIONS



## – G ENERAL

Operational Control

M3 utilizes a two

- tier system of operational control. The first tier consists of managers and directors listed in this Operations Manual. The second tier of operational con trol consists of the operational control the PIC in Command (PIC) exercises as the final authority over the operation of the UAS. The PIC determines whether or not a flight can be accepted, initiated, conducted, or terminated and makes tactical and dynamic in

- flight decisions in accordance with the Code of Federal Aviation Regulations and the M3 General Operations Manual and Operations Specifications. Only a PIC who is a exercise this second tier Operational Control over any M3 f light. In the event the PIC is unsure whether or not a flight assignment can be conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations or the M3 General Operations Manual and Manufactur e r s Specifications, the PIC will contact the CP or DO.

Accident NotificationMarch	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. From the time the PIC intends to fly until all such flights are completed; the occurrence of any of the following requires M3 to notify the National Transportation Safety Bo ard (NTSB):

• A UAS accident or any of the following listed serious incidents occur:

• UAS collision in flight;

• Damage to property, ot her than the UAS , estimated to exceed $25,000 for repair (including materials and labor) or fair market value in the event of total loss, whichever is less.

M3 personnel will notify the Operational Control Center and they will notify certificate management (DO, DOM, Chief PIC ) who will, in turn, notify the NTSB and the Regional Operations Center (ROC). This will be reported in the most expe ditious means available as

follows:

• Insofar as possible, the report shall contain the following information:

° Location, time, and date of the accident
° Number of persons involved
° Nature and extent of injuries if any
° Brief description of circu mstance(s) surrounding the accident

• When possible, the report should also include:
° Type and registration mark of the UAS

° Name of the PIC in command
° Last point of departure and point of intended landing of the UAS

° Position of th e UAS in relation to an easily defined geographical point

° Number of persons involved

. ° Nature of the accident, the weather, and the extent of damage so far as is known

• The PIC shall discuss the accident only with the assigned law enforcement officer(s) or official(s) from the Federal Aviation Administration or National Transportation Safety Board. If the Press, or anyone else seeks information as to cause, or name of persons involved, refer

them to the Director of Operations.

Daily Flight Log (DFL)

A Daily Flight Log (DFL) shall be filled out for all flights. The following guidance shall be used in preparing the DFL:

• Record the Location of the flight, either street address or Lat/Long

• Record the date, UAS type and UAS model.

• DFL Number is a unique, company assigned number.

° The first part will be a six digit combination of numbers and possibly letters. The last two digits signify the year. For example: Phantom2

- 034

- 12.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. ° If additi onal pages are needed to capture all flights for the 24

- hour period, they will use the same DFL sequence number and be labeled (above the sequence number) 2 of 3, 3 of 3,

etc.

• Time in Service Brought Forward: Brought forward from the previous DFL, reco rded as hours

and minutes

• Time in Service Today: the total time for the just finished 24

- hour period, shown in hours and minutes. Time to be used with the approval of the Director of Maintenance and the Chief PIC, or their respective representatives wi ll be hour and minutes.

• Total Time in Service: The sum of the time brought forward and today’s time in service;
recorded in hours and minutes, unless authorized as above.

• PIC and VO names: Print last name, first initial, then PIC certificate number and type (e.g. Doe, J 1234567 ATP).

• UAS takeoff and landing times shall be entered in local time, 24

- hour format. Takeoff time shall be recorded just before liftoff. This is the method to track time in service for maintenance.

• The DFL must be sign ed.

• The paper copy of the DFL will be carried by PIC.

UAS Training / Currency

All PIC and VO will be required to go through a documented M3 training program to gain both proficiency in the UAS as well as competency in working as a PIC/VO team. Computer based simulation (CBS) will be the first step in training. CBS will be utilized in order to decrease the chances of UAS “mishap” while increase UAS knowledge and limitations experience. Upon completion of the CBS PIC and VO will beg in flights on smaller less complicated UAS and remote control devices.

Upon completion of “training” device syllabus PIC VO teams will operate UAS in a controlled environment (indoor) facility until proficient with moving UAS outdoors.

Prior to operating UAS “for hire” PIC and VO will have to have minimum of 5 hours of actual UAS time and be designated by the Chief Pilot.

At any time, a PIC and VO may request additional training. This request shall be coordinated through the appropriate chain of comman d with final approval from the Chief PIC . Additional training flights shall be documented appropriately.

Hazard/Hazard MappingMarch	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. An M3 PIC will not continue a flight if they become aware of a condition that may present a

ha zard to safe operations. Operations shall be restricted or suspended as necessary until those

conditions are corrected.

Hazards Map

– Local Area

Annotation is only necessary if hazards present a threat to normal operations. The following is a

non all

- i nclusive list of potential hazards that would need to be annotated on the map:

• Towers not already depicted on the map.

• Power lines (high voltage), and other wires and cables that are not already depicted on the map. Additional marking over existing map detail may be appropriate where long wire spans cross over canyons, rivers, highways, or near known landing areas.

• High buildings or structures under construction that may be a new hazard during approach or departure from an existing helipad; or c reate a hazard to normal helicopter traffic routes and operating areas.

• TFR’s

• Low

- level Military Routes not depicted on the map.

• Non

- depicted airports.

• Non

- depicted sky diving, glider, hang glider, ultra

- light, and VFR practice areas.

• R emote control airfields.

• Non

- depicted preferred VFR routes.

Deteriorating Weather Conditions

If while conducting VFR operations, deteriorating weather conditions are encountered, the following procedures is to be followed:

• Land the UAS an d notify M3 Operations Center of cancelled flight due to weather conditions

.

Documen ts Required with UAS

All M3 PIC’s shall carry the following standardized documents:

• M3 General Operatio ns Manual (Print or Digital Copy)

• UAS Maintenance Log (Print or Digital Copy)

• UAS Registration (Print	or	Digital	Copy)

• UAS Flight Manual (Print	or	Digital	Copy)March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. • Appropriate and current aeronautical charts for VFR or IFR operations (Print	or	Di gital	Copy)

• Cockpit Checklist (meeting the requirements of 135.83) (Print	or	Digital	Copy)

• Daily Flight Log (Print	or	Digital	Copy)

• FCC radio station license (when required) (Print	or	Digital	Copy)

• PIC s Maintenance and Servicing Procedures (Pri nt	or	Digital	Copy)



## III. E MERGENCY 

## N OTIFICATION

In the event the certificate holder or PIC who, under emergency authority, deviates from any Federal Aviation Regulation shall, upon the safe completion of the flight, write a complete report

of the UAS operation involved. He/she will include a description of the deviation taken and the reasons for it. He/she will immediately send it to the Director of Operations and/or Chief PIC who will forward it to the FAA no later than ten (10) business days afte r the day of the deviation.



## IV. P ERSONNEL 

## Q UALIFICATIONS

All flight crewmembers are charged with the responsibility of maintaining their qualifications in keeping with the requirements outlined in the FARs for their assigned position. Qualifications

include the PIC certificates and ratings appropriate for the assignment. Each crewmember shall keep a personal account of the due date(s), as appropriate, for all required; checks, training,

recurre nce of experience requirements, and flight physicals. Additionally, each crewmember will comply with all flight time and crew rest requirement s as prescribed by the FARs. Whereas the company desires to keep its employees current, and will make every attempt to do so, lapses in qualification will be viewed primarily as the fault of the person whose qualification lapsed if the Director of Operations, Director of Maintenance, and/or Chief PIC was not made aware of the pending lapse in advance.



## V. P REFLIGHT 

## P REPARATI ON

In making a decision to accept or reject a requested flight, each PIC will consider all relevant factors that might affect the safety of flight. These factors will include (but are not limited to)
weather, FA R required fuel requirements, airport/heliport and navigation aid conditions, UAS equipment and maintenance status, and physical and emotional condition. The PIC will also consider safety recommendations from medical and other involved personnel/ VO’s

. If a PIC is uncertain that a requested flight can be completed according to the requirements of

this Manual and of the FARs , they shall contact CP,DM or DO. This notification shall explain the

factors included in the PIC ’s decision making process and provide insight into the PIC ’s professional judgment. The PIC should give this notice with minimum delay, and include acceptable alternative destinatio ns and/or courses of action. In considering these possibilities,

the PIC should seek input from the VO, or others as appropriate. It is the PIC ’s responsibility to ensure that their decision is made with safety and legality as the ultimate controlling prin ciples.

As part of their preflight duties, the assigned PIC will note the date and UAS flight hours as

indicated in the UAS logbook. The PIC will review the UAS Maintenance Record and UAS status report in the UAS to determine whether any discrepancies have been corrected. If the PIC finds a mechanical irregularity that has not been either corrected or properly deferred, they will not take off, but will contact the DM for instructions

.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. The PIC shall become familiar with all available information concerning each flight including:

• For flights not in the vicinity of the airport/heliport (helistop); weather reports, forecasts, alternates, and known air traffic delays. • NOTAMs (FDC, D , and L as applicable), including TFRs. • Weather (including hazards).

Risk Assessment Program

To assist in reducing incidents and accidents, M3 has developed and implemented an operational risk assessment program to assist PIC s & VO’s in identifying , assessing, and managing risks and then ensuring that they are mitigated, deferred, or accepted. The Risk Assessment Tool is designed to provide the PIC with a robust method of assessing the risk for each shift, leg, and flight. The document is in an Exc el format and is available on M3

servers

.

There are three sections to the Tool:

• Personal Information

• UAS Information • Flight Request Information

Personal Information Section

Each PIC should fill in the info rmation requested in the header :

UA S Section

Also on the left side of the tool is the “ UAS ” section (shown below). These are also risks that probably will not change during the shift (static) and therefore can be completed at the beginning of each shift. Check all those that apply.

Fligh t Request Section

On the right side of the sheet is the “Flight Request” field (shown below). This section contains risks that may (i.e. probably will) change each time you fly. These are the dynamic risks.

Risk Thresholds Section

Each section adds up automatically and then provides a Risk Assessment Total for the

section and for the entire sheet in the bottom left hand corner.

Mitigating the risk, either for individual sections or for the entire tool, is left to the discretion of

the PIC. Mitigating factors can be as varied as the risks themselves.

PIC s can use any method of mitigating the risks that they find workable and acceptable, so long as the mitigations do not violate any FAR or company policy. Additionally, if the PIC cannot mitigate an NF, High or Ex High risk to an acceptable level for flight acceptance, then the PIC will not conduct the flight.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. NOTAM Submission

Submission of NOTAM information for flights, when required, will be coordinated and submitted through M3 Operations center

.

Tempora ry Flight Restrictions (TFRs)

M3 ’ PIC s shall check NOTAMs so as to maintain awareness of Temporary Flight Restrictions

and will not operate within TFR. If an M3 flight request has been initiated by the TFR requesting agency then M3 will coordinate with the controlling agency when operating within them. Active TFRs should be noted on the Local Area Hazards Map. Written permission from the controlling authority shall be obtained and relayed to the Communications Center prior to any flights

conducted within a TFR.

Weather Sources and Providers Approved for UAS Flight Planning

Weather sources for VFR and IFR flight planning are listed in Operations Specification A010.

M3 PIC s will use one or more of those sources listed, either directly or through an approved provider, to obtain required weather forecasts and reports for the flight.

M3 provides each base with an DUATS account

. This is the only provider that is supported by

the M3 Operations Department

.

M3 preferred approved providers are: • DTC DUAT

• CSC DUATS • Foreflight

In accordance with §135.213(a), if NWS or other approved weather sources are not available for VFR operations, a PIC in command (PIC) may use weather information based on his or her own

weather observation or on the observations of other competent persons.

PIC s are authorized to use the experimental Aviation Digital Data Service (ADDS) HEMS Tool to support VFR flight planning. However, the tool will not be used as the sole source of weather

information and wil l only be used to make a “no

- go” decision when results conflict with

authorized weather sources.



## VI. F LIGHT 

## O PERATIONS

Flight Route

All flight routes will be briefed between PIC and VO prior to the flight. A visual inspection of the

location to be flown ove r will be done prior to the flight. All flights will be conducted with the

“Return to base” feature of the UAS if communications between PIC and UAS is “lost”.

Flight Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

All flights being conducted will be conducted via VLOS betw een PIC, VO and UAS. If at any

time either VO or PIC loses VLOS with UAS the “Return to home” feature of UAS will be

initiated. The return to home location for the UAS will be briefed and established prior to the flight being executed.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. Landing Zone Safet y and Crowd Control

Landing zones must be secure prior to commencing a flight . Confirmation of a secured landing zone should always include two

- way communication with PIC and VO . If two

- way communication is not available, the pilot shall visually check for landing zone security during the high reconnaissance. Operations will be conducted over private property with clearly defined signage informing personnel of UAS Operations

Maximum Altitude for UAS

During all enroute opera tions, pilots are encouraged to be mindful of the FAA/HAI “Fly Neighborly” program (more information may be found at www.rotor.com). Every effort should be made to fly at altitudes that are not only safe, but also minimize the risk of noise complaints. The

maximum altitudes listed below are not intended for routine use. At all times, with the exception of takeoffs and landings, M3 will operate at an altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to perso ns or pr operty on the

surface. M3 PIC pilots will maintain at least the following maximum altitudes:

• 400 feet AGL

If operating in Class B,C or D airspace M3 PIC will maintain an altitude that will not interfere with any other aircraft after prio r permission and approval is obtained . M3 will maintain VHF communication with ATC tower in order to report location and altitude of UAS. M3 UAS’s will remain clear of all traffic patterns and will not operate in controlled tower airspace along approach or departure corridors. M3 will not operate with in class B,C or D airspace with weather reporting below 3000’ AGL and 5 miles visibility.

Flight Notification

Flight notification will be conducted through M3 flight operations center and in conjunction with the FAA flight notification channels for routine VFR flights or other established UAS flight filing and notification systems as they become available.



## VII. M AINTENANCE 

## O PERATIONS

All maintenance will be performed as directed by the manufactures suggested procedures. M3 will use a preventative maintenance plan in order to maintain a properly operating UAS. This preventative plan will require thorough pre and post flight inspections as well as documented

verification.

Maintenance Contr ol

The DM will be responsible for all maintenance being done on the UAS. Maintenance will be recorded and maintained on the M3 company server. No maintenance will be conducted on UAS without notifying the DM.

UAS Airworthiness CheckMarch	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. All UAS will have an “ Airworthiness Check ” performed by a company DM or PIC prior to the first flight of each day. “ Airworthiness check ” will be conducted in accordance with UAS operating

manual. In the absence of company DM the pilots preflight shall be the equivalent of an UAS

“ airworthiness check ”

.

Preventative Maintenance Plan

A preventative maintenance plan will be structured utilizing UAS manufacturing guidelines. Time

tracked components will be monitored and replaced as directed. Preflight and Postflight inspections of UAS will also be used in order to correct potential maintenance issues before they become a discrepancy.

Unplanned Maintenance

Any unplanned maintenance wi ll be tracked and logged on company server in order to provided documentation on potential “engineering or structural” discrepancies . DM will be notified of unplanned maintenance via Maintenance discrepancy and maintenance action forms. All

maintenance wil l be documented within maintenance control.

Maintenance Action Form

All maintenance preformed on the UAS will be annotated utilizing the M3 company Maintenance Action Form (MAF). The form will track:

- Specific UAS

- Date of discrepancy and date of repair

- Total time of UAS

- Discrepancy found

- Actions performed to correct discrepancy

- Personnel completing the maintenance

- Date of flight check and return to service

Maintenance Inspection After Incident

At any time that safety of flight or airworthiness is in question, the PIC will discontinue the flight. A log book entry will be made and maintenance will be contacted. The UAS will not be flown until maintenance has inspected and released the UAS for flight to include a log book e ntry.

PIC s who make an unscheduled landing for reasons such as securing a door, a seatbelt, or to investigate a bird strike to non

- rotating parts are authorized to resume flight if no damage has

occurred.

All mechanical irregularities discovered during th e course of a flight will be brought to the attention of the maintenance department after the flight.

Maintenance Operational Check

No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventative maintenance, rebuildin g or alteration unless a Maint enance operational check flight has been

accomp lished.March	18,	2015

This manual contains proprietary information of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . It is intended solely for the use of M3 Partners, LLC and White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations

. Such p roprietary information may not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to any other parties for any other purpose without the expressed written permission of M3 Partners, LLC or White Tops Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

. Maintenance T racking

All maintenance performed on UAS will be documented and tracked via company spreadsheet. Spread sheets will contain the following information

- Total time on UAS

- Discrepancy

- Date of d iscrepancy

- Date corrective action performed

- Name of individual performing corrective action

- Date of operational check flight Sp r ead sheets will be maintained o n company serve r s and utilized during preflight planning . All maintenance records will be kept on file for a minimum of three years.



## VIII. S AFETY 

## M ANAGEMENT 

## S YSTEM

M3 is committed to the highest level of safety in the execution of its mission requirements. From the initial request for work thr ough preflight planning, execution and completion, M3 will incorporate SMS best practices into all phases of the operation. Responsibility for implementing the safety program rests with al l M3 employees. M3 partners will utilize the basic tenants of a Saf ety Management System including :

I. Safety Policy

II. Risk Management

III. Safety Assurance

IV. Safety Promotion

The following items comprise the core elements of the M3 Safety Program

I. Management

- leadership commitment

II. Risk Management Principles

i. Risk Identification

ii. Risk Assessment

iii. Risk Mitigation

iv. Implement Controls

v. Supervise

III. Safety Audits

IV. Accident and Incident reporting

V. Safety Communications and Awareness