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 proprietary 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 SYSTEMS (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 proprietary 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). 

PURPOSE

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

the 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 guidelines to enable all 

employees of M3 to accomplish assigned tasks and responsibilities in accordance with FAA 

regulations and guidelines.

DISTRIBUTION

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

- M3 Partners headquarters, Greenville SC

- Each UAS operational location

REVISION	CONTROL

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. 

REVISION	RECORD	

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. 

APPLICABILITY

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 minimums listed in FAR 91

SAFETY	MANAGEMENT	SYSTEM (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 proprietary 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

Distribution

Revision control

Revision record

Application

Safety Management System

I. General Information

a. Organizational Management Personnel

b. Organizational Duties

II. Flight Operations General

a. Operational Control

b. Accident Notification

c. Daily Flight Log

d. UAS Training / Currency

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 Preparations
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White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations. Such proprietary 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 Restrictions (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 Operational Check

h. Maintenance Tracking

VIII. Safety Management System
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 proprietary 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. GENERAL INFORMATION

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

the Federal Aviation 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 

maintain 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 manual 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 PICs, 

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 PICs 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 furnish any local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) of the Federal Aviation 

Administration (FAA) as required with a current and complete 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 

regulations, 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 bring 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 proprietary 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 PICs 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 policy, and all other policies which affect Company Operations. 

• Devises revisions 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, 

Operations 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 development 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 Manual/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 Management System (SMS) implementation and initiatives. 

Familiar with the SMS Policy Manual and SMS Procedures. 

Chief Pilot-In-Command (C-PIC)
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White Top Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for UAS operations. Such proprietary 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 PICs in Command and Visual Observers 

• Advises the Director of Operations regarding 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 requirements, 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 policies, 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 supervision 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 411 (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 proprietary 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 schedules. 

• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Operations.

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

familiar 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 maintenance 

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 compliance with the FARs, this General Operations Manual, 

and M3 policies/procedures. 

• Ensures full and proper completion 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 not 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, areas 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 proprietary 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 issues 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 their assigned position. 

• Responsible for protecting M3 UAS from damage and weather. 

• Reports potentially hazardous meteorological conditions and irregularities of communications 

or 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 initiatives

familiar 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 maintained 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 proprietary 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 Regulations, 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 technicians 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 maintenance 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 of 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

familiar with the SMS Policy Manual and SMS Procedures. 

• Performs other duties as assigned.

II. FLIGHT OPERATIONS – GENERAL 

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 control 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 flight. 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 Manufacturers 

Specifications, the PIC will contact the CP or DO.

Accident Notification
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 proprietary 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 Board (NTSB):

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

• UAS collision in flight;

• Damage to property, other 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 expeditious 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 circumstance(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 the 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.
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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 proprietary 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 additional 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, recorded 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 will 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 signed. 

• 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 begin 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 command with final approval from the Chief PIC. Additional 

training flights shall be documented appropriately. 

Hazard/Hazard Mapping
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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 proprietary 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 

hazard 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-inclusive 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 create 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. 

• Remote 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 and notify M3 Operations Center of cancelled flight due to weather conditions. 

Documents Required with UAS

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

• M3 General Operations 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 proprietary 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	Digital	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)	

• PICs Maintenance and Servicing Procedures (Print	or	Digital	Copy)	

III. EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION

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 after the day of the deviation.

IV. PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS 

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, 

recurrence of experience requirements, and flight physicals. Additionally, each crewmember will 

comply with all flight time and crew rest requirements 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. PREFLIGHT PREPARATION 

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, FAR 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 destinations 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 principles. 

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 proprietary 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 PICs & 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 Excel 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 information requested in the header:

UAS 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.

Flight 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.

PICs 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 proprietary 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. 

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) 

M3’ PICs 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 PICs 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. 

PICs 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 will only be used to make a “no-go” decision when results conflict with 

authorized weather sources.

VI. FLIGHT OPERATIONS

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 over 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 between 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 proprietary 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 Safety 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 operations, 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 persons or property 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 prior 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 within 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. MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 

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 Control

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 Check
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 proprietary 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 will 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 will 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 entry. 

PICs 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 the 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, rebuilding or alteration unless a Maintenance operational check flight has been 

accomplished.
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 proprietary 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 Tracking

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 discrepancy 

- Date corrective action performed

- Name of individual performing corrective action

- Date of operational check flight

Spread sheets will be maintained on company servers and utilized during preflight planning. All

maintenance records will be kept on file for a minimum of three years.

VIII. SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

M3 is committed to the highest level of safety in the execution of its mission requirements. From 

the initial request for work through 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 all M3 employees. M3 partners will utilize the basic tenants of a

Safety 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