Private and Confidential 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos 31 Streeter Brook Milton VT 05468-

Section 333 Exemption Petition 

10128115 

U. S. Department of Transportation Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Ave, 

SE Washington, DC 20590 

'.' f 

Re: Exemption Request Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act of the Federal Aviation Regulations 

from 14 C.F.R. 45.23(b); 14 C.F.R. Part 21; 14 C.F.R. 61.113(a)&(b); 91.7(a); 91.9(b) (2); 

91.103(b); 91.109; 119.121; 91.151(a); 91.203(a)&(b); 91.405(a); 91.407(a) (1); 91.409(a) (2); 

91.417(a)&(b) 

Dear Sir or Madam, I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, am writing 

pursuant 

to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and the procedures contained within 14 

C.F.R. 11, to request that I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos an owner 

and 

operator of small unmanned aircraft, be exempted from the Federal Aviation Regulations 

("FARs") listed below so that I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-nNideos (may 

operate 

my small ultra lightweight unmanned aircraft system ("UAS") in commercially regulated 

airspace by the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA"). 

Following exemption and approval by the FAA, I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos, will primarily use my professionally built DJI Phantom 3 Pro UAS equipped 

with cameras for the following applications: Closed-Set Film Operations on Film and Television 

Productions, as well as aerial videography/cinematography to safely enhance films and 

commercials; augmentation of real estate listing videos; and the creation of visual and 

topography layout videos for Search and Rescue (SAR) missions for state and local agency's, 

education, agricultural inspections and building and construction zone inspections. Our primary 

goal will be augmentation of real estate listing videos. 

/) 
My, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos', exemption request would permit 

the 

operation of ultra lightweight, unmanned (i.e. piloted by remote control) UAS's for the 

development of community and government use videos, permissible within property 

boundaries for individual homeowners and within in tightly controlled, limited airspaces 

predetermined in areas away from the general public, airports, heliports and vehicular traffic. 

Currently, similar lightweight, remote controlled UAS's are legally operated by unmonitored 

amateur hobbyists with no safety plan or controls in place to prevent catastrophe. Furthermore, 

it is my intent to assist future FAA safety protocols and regulations exclusive to lightweight 

UAS's for specific video and photography usage by sharing information with the FAA as I, 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos record flight data and other pertinent 

information gained through permitted flight operations. 

In addition, granting my, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, exemption 

request will comply with the Secretary of Transportation's (FAA Administrator's) instructions to 

not only integrate UAS's into the national airspace system, but to " ... establish requirements for 

the safe operation of such aircraft systems [UAS's] in the national airspace system" under 

Section 333{c) of the Reform Act specific to the use of UAS's for real estate/Realtor purposes, 

educational videos, Search and Rescue, land/trusts inspections, agricultural field monitoring, 

film/video productions, closed-set motion picture film operations and television, and structure 

inspections, to aid state and local agency's. 

Further I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos will conduct my operations in 

compliance 

with the protocols described herein or as otherwise established by the FAA. 

For the reasons stated below, I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, 

respectfully 

request the grant of an exemption allowing me to operate ultra lightweight, remote controlled 

UAS's to aid academic community awareness, to benefit/stimulate attraction to the metro 

Chittenden County and greater Burlington VT area and surroundings and to enhance 

personal and public video feeds. A grant that will ultimately 

allow UAS's to play a more positive role in our local community by increasing employment 

opportunities, heightening security measures and decreasing government expenditures by 

reducing the need for heavier manned aircraft, containing costly, combustible fuel- a potential 

public hazard in and of itself. 

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I. Contact Information: 

Bruce Morrissey 

Smugglers' Photos-n.Videos 

Milton, VT 05468 

Phone: 802-598-0002 

Email: smuggsphoto@comcastnet 

II. The Specific Sections of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations From Which 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos Requests Exemption are: 

14 CFR 21; 14 C.F.R 45.23(b); 

14 CFR 61.113 (a) & (b); 

14 C.F.R. 91, et seq.; 

14 CFR 407 (a) (1 ); 

14 CFR 409 (a) (2); and, 

14 CFR 417 (a) & (b). 

Ill. The Extent of relief Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos Seel_<.s and the 

Reason He Seeks Such Relief: 

I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos submit this application in 

accordance with the Reform Act, 112 P.L. 95 §§ 331-334, seeking relief from any 

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currently applicable FARs operating to prevent me. Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos. contemplated commercial cinematic, academic and other flight operations 

within the national airspace system. The Reform Act in Section 332 provides for such integration 

of civil unmanned aircraft systems into our national airspace system as it is in the public's 

interest to do so. My, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, ultra lightweight 

UAS meets the definition of "small 

unmanned aircraft" as defined in Section 331 and therefore the integration of my ultra light 

weight UAS is expressly contemplated by the Reform Act. I would like to operate my ultra 

lightweight UAS prior to the time period by which the Reform Act requires the FAA to 

promulgate rules governing such craft. Thereby, providing direct experience and valuable 

information for formal regulation that can be administered uniformly to all related UAS aerial 

video and photography. The Reform Act guides the Secretary in determining the types of UAS's 

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that may operate safely in our national airspace system. Considerations include: The weight, 

size, speed and overall capabilities of the UAS's; Whether the UAS will be operated near 

airports or heavily populated areas; and, Whether the UAS will be operated by line of sight. 112 

P.L. 95 § 333 (a). 

Each of these items reflect in favor of an exemption for me, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos. My UAS's utilize eight (8) or less rotating propellers for balance, control and 

stability. My UAS's are equipped with the following via video and data telemetry: 

1) Altimeter 

2) Attitude indicator 

3) Ground Speed indicator 

4) Magnetic compass 

5) Heading indicator 

6) Vertical speed indicator 

7) Course deviation indicator 

8) Radio magnetic indicator 

9) GPS location 

1 0) Battery consumption and Battery Left with approximate time. 

11) Loiter and circle mode. 

12) Auto safety or RTL ( Return To Launch) 

13) Auto landing technology. 

Each UAS weighing less than twenty (20) pounds (far below the maximum 55 pound limit); 

Including camera(s) with or without gimbal (a camera stabilizer). I, Bruce Morrissey DBA 

Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos considers safety as foremost with each flight. My small 

unmanned 

aircraft is designed to hover in place, circle in a specific place or loiter via GPS 

and can be operated in winds up to 30.4 knots (35mph) wind. For safety, stability and fear of 

financial loss I will not fly in winds exceeding 21.7 knots (25 mph). Built in safety systems 

include a GPS mode that allows my UAS to hover/circle in place or land when radio controls 

are released. My own personal rule will be not to fly in wind speeds exceeding 20 MPH. 

With three (3) modes to choose from, I will fly with the modes safest to complete the videos for 

aerial videography/photography and have the ability to choose the safest, most reliable and 

stable mode to prevent accident and hazard. When pilot communication from the radio 

control is lost, UAS is designed slowly descend to point of takeoff and or to land at point of 

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launch after ascending to a pre-set altitude to ensure the UAS will clear any obstacles that 

may be between the takeoff point and the current position ofthe UAS. This failsafe altitude 

will not be set more than 200ft and is determined before each flight. 

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I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos will not operate my UAS near airports, 

hospitals nor police heliports, and do not operate near areas where general public is within fifty 

to one hundred (50-100) yards depending on location, conditions and weather. I am constantly 

on alert for any manned aircraft (police/medical helicopters, etc.) and prepared to land/abort 

immediately to the nearest and safest ground point should a manned aircraft approach my 

location or I suspect manned aircraft may approach near my location. My UAS's are capable of 

vertical and horizontal operations, and is flown only within my line of sight, as the remote control 

pilot. My UAS's are also flown with a second operator who aids in watching for any obstacles, 

including manned aircraft, within the flight zone of the UAS. Utilizing battery power rather than 

combustible fuels, flights generally last between three (1 0) to fifteen (25) minutes, with an 

altitude under one hundred fifty (150) feet. (3 )Smart Mode includes, position hold, self-leveling; 

altitude command, GPS, return home feature, and safety control to return home or land in the 

event of communication interruption between RC transmitter and UAS. 

I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos utilize a fresh fully charged 

battery with each flight as a safety precaution; full flight time limit for each battery is eight (8) to 

thirty (30) minutes as tested. I do not operate my UAS at or below manufacturer recommend 

minimum charge levels for operation; preferring to remain well within a safe operating range to 

insure adequate communication between radio control and UAS to eliminate potential for crash, 

loss of control or hazard. Reserve batteries are at hand with each exercise to insure 

replacement for sufficient safe level of operation. I do not believe in taking risk that may cause a 

crash, that could create hazard to the public/property/manned aircraft, and have no desire to 

lose an investment. I have clocked numerous practice flights in remote areas as a hobbyist 

simulating flights for future commercial use to gain familiarization with the characteristics of this 

specific UAS's performance under different temperature and weather conditions. I also practice 

computerized simulated flights to maintain adequate skills and response reflex time. All for the 

sake of safety. 

I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, am extremely cautious when 

operating of my UAS/ultra lightweight unmanned aircraft and will not "create a hazard to users of 

the national airspace system or the public." 112 P. L. 95 § 333 (b). Given the small size and 

weight of my UAS it falls well within Congress's contemplated safety zone when it promulgated 

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the Reform Act and the corresponding directive to integrate UAS's into the national airspace 

system. Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos's UAS, used in hobby flight, has 

a demonstrable safety record and does not pose any threat to the general public or national 

security. 

IV. How Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos' Request Will Benefit the 

Public As A Whole: Aerial videography for geographical awareness, education, search and 

rescue, land management, structure inspections and for real estate marketing has been around 

for a long time through manned fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. For small budget companies, 

average homeowners and property owners the expense of such aerial videography is cost 

prohibitive. Only large companies and high end Realtors or luxury homeowners can afford to 

absorb such expense; depriving non-luxury owners and lower budget companies from a 

valuable marketing tool. Manned aircraft pose a threat to the public through potential 

catastrophic crash that the Vermont community has experienced in the past with military 

aircraft, private aircrafts, ultra-lite's. Each resulting in loss of life. 

Each with combustible fuel that can explode and bum on impact. 

My, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, UAS poses no such threat since 

size and lack of combustible fuel 

alleviates any potential threat to the public. Congress has already proclaimed that it is in the 

public's interest to integrate commercially flown UAS's into the national airspace system, 

hence the passing of the Reform Act. Granting my, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos, exemption request furthers the public interest through academic/visual 

awareness of the geographical benefits in and around the metro Burlington VT area. My ultra 

light 

weight UAS is battery powered and creates no emissions that can harm the environment. The 

consequence of my ultra light weight UAS crashing is far less than a full size helicopter or 

fixed wing aircraft; which are heavy, contain combustible fuel and can cause catastrophic 

devastation to the public. The public's interest is furthered by minimizing ecological and crash 

threat by permitting aerial video/photo capture through my battery operated ultra lightweight 

UAS's. 

Permitting me, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos to immediately fly within 

national air space furthers economic growth. Granting my exemption request substantially 

furthers the economic impact for the metro Milton VT, Burlington VT and Chittenden County 

and surrounding community for 

companies looking to relocate or build around Milton VT/Butlington VT metro area as well as 

individuals 

looking to relocate for career advancement through academic and geographical awareness. 

Both of which serve as a stimulus to the community. 

V. Reasons Why Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos Exemption 

Will Not Adversely Affect Safety Or How The Exemption Will Provide a Level of Safety At 

Least Equal To Existing Rule: My, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, 

exemption will not adversely affect safety. Quite the contrary, for the reasons stated permitting 

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me, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos to log more flight time in FAA 

controlled airspace, with communication with the FAA, will allow me to contribute to the 

innovation and implementation of new and novel, as of yet undiscovered safety protocols for 

Realtors, land and structured owners. For development in cooperation with the FAA. In addition 

I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos submit the following representations of 

enhancements to current aerial videography and photography: My UAS's weigh less than seven 

(7) pounds complete with a an integrated ultra-light weight camera.; I only operate my UAS 

below 200 feet (well within the 400 foot permissible ceiling set by the FAA Modernization and 

Reform Act of 2012); My UAS only operate for 3-30 minutes per flight; I land my UAS prior to 

manufacturer recommended minimum level of battery power; I pilot my UAS through remote 

control only by line of sight; and have live video feed for a secondary pilot to monitor video 

recording; I receive a live telemetry feed from my UAS during all flights which include remaining 

battery voltage, distance, altitude, and any anomalies that may occur during flight; 

My UAS's Command and Control utilizes spread spectrum 2.4Ghz-2.485Ghz frequencies in 

accordance with CFR 47, Part 15 for model aircraft use. 

My UAS's camera system utilizes 5.725Ghz-5.875Ghz frequencies in accordance with CFR 47, 

Part 15. 

My UAS's have a GPS controlled flight controller- a flight safety feature whereby it hovers or 

circles and then lands at the GPS takeoff point if communication with the remote control pilot 

is lost; I actively record and analyze flight data through the DJI phantom 3 flight controller app to 

constantly update and enhance safety protocols; I only operate in reasonably safe environment 

that are strictly controlled, are away from power lines, elevated lights, airports and actively 

populated areas; I conduct extensive preflight inspections and protocol, during which safety 

carries primary importance; I always obtain all necessary permissions prior to operation; and, I 

have procedures in place to abort flights in the event of safety breaches or potential danger. My, 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, safety protocols provide a level of safety 

equal to or exceeding existing rules. It is important to note that absent the integration of 

commercial UAS into our national airspace system, helicopters are the primary means of aerial 

video and photography for community awareness real estate, structured inspections, land 

management and search and rescue. While the safety record of such helicopters is remarkably 

astounding, there has been local incident involving loss of life as well as extensive property 

damage; it is far safer to operate a battery powered ultra lightweight UAS. First, the potential 

loss of life is diminished because UAS's carry no people on board and I only operates my UAS 

in specific areas away from mass populations. Second, there is no fuel on board a UAS and 

thus the potential for fire or explosions is greatly diminished. Third, the small size and extreme 

maneuverability of my UAS allow me to remotely pilot away from and avoid hazards quickly and 

safely. Lastly, given its small size and weight, even when close enough to capture amazing 

images, my UAS need not be so close to the objects they are focused on through the 

technology and use of post editing software allowing pan and zoom. Accordingly, my UAS has 

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been experimentally operated for familiarization/competency and will continue to operate at and 

above current safety levels. 

VI. A Summary The FAA May Publish in the Federal Register: 

14 C.F.R. 21 and 14 C.F.R. 91: Airworthiness Certificates, Manuals and The Like. 

14 C.F.R. 21, Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, sets forth requirements for 

procurement of necessary airworthiness certificates in relation to FAR §91.203(a)(1 ). The 

size, weight and enclosed operational area of my, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos, UAS permits exemption from Part 21 because my UAS meets (and exceeds) 

an equivalent level of safety pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act. The FAA is authorized 

to exempt aircraft from the airworthiness certificate requirement under both the Act (49 U.S.C. § 

44701 (f)) and Section 333 of the Reform Act. Both pieces of legislation permit the FAA to 

exempt UAS's from the airworthiness certificate requirement in consideration of the weight, size, 

speed, maneuverability and proximity to areas such as airports and dense populations. My, 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, current and projected UAS's meet or 

exceed each of the elements. 

14 C.F.R. 91.7(a) prohibits the operation of an aircraft without an airworthiness certificate. As no 

such certificate will be applicable in the form contemplated by the F ARs, this Regulation is 

inapplicable. 

14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b) (2) requires an aircraft flight manual in the aircraft. As there are no on board 

pilots or passengers, and given the size of the UAS's, this Regulation is inapplicable. An 

equivalent level of safety will be achieved by maintaining a safety/flight manual delineating 

areas of where safety can be defined. 

The FAA has previously issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8607, 8737, 

8738, 9299, 9299A, 9565, 9565B, 10167, 10167A, 10602, 10700 and 32827. 

14 C.F.R. § 91.121 regarding altimeter settings is inapplicable insofar as my UAS utilizes 

electronic global positioning systems with a barometric sensor or controlled GPS "geofencing" 

14 C.F.R. § 91.203 (a) and (b) provides for the carrying of civil aircraft certifications and 

registrations. They are inapplicable for the same reasons described above. The equivalent level 

of safety will be achieved by maintaining any such required certifications and registrations by 

me, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos. 

B. 14 C.F.R. § 45.23: Marking of The Aircraft. Applicable Codes of Federal Regulation require 

aircraft to be marked according to certain specifications. My UAS can be marked with the 

appropriate "N" number once this "N" number has been given. 

C. 14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: PIC. Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §§ 

61.113 (a) & (b), private pilots are limited to non-commercial operations. I, Bruce Morrissey 

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DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos The UAS Pilot in Command will possess a driver's license. 

The PIC will also complete flight review requirements , safety check lists, as well as maintain a 

flight log. 

D. 14 C.F.R. 91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes. 14 C.F.R. § 91.119 prescribes safe altitudes for 

the operation of civil aircraft. It allows helicopters to be operated at lower altitudes in certain 

conditions. My UAS will never operate at an altitude greater than 300fclose AGL; safely below 

the standard of 400 AGL. I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos will however 

operate my UAS in safe areas away from public and traffic, providing a level of safety at least 

equivalent to or below those in relation to minimum safe altitudes. Given the size, weight, 

maneuverability and speed of my UAS, an equivalent or higher level of safety will be achieved. 

E. 14 C.F.R. 91.405 (a}; 407 (a) (1); 409 (a) (2); 417(a) & (b): Maintenance lnspections.1,2, 

Manual 

The above-cited Regulations require, amongst other things, aircraft owners and operators to 

"have [the] 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 .... "These Regulations only apply to aircraft with an 

airworthiness certificate. They will not, therefore, apply to my, NAME)'s, UAS. However, as a 

safety precaution I inspect my UAS before and after each flight. 

A Summary The FAA May Publish in the Federal Register: A. 14 C.F.R. 21 and 14 C.F.R. 91: 

Airworthiness Certificates, Manuals and The Like. 14 C.F.R. 21, Subpart H, entitled 

Airworthiness Certificates, sets forth requirements for procurement of necessary airworthiness 

certificates in relation to FAR§ 91.203(a)(1). The size, weight and enclosed operational area 

of my UAS permits exemption from Part 21 because my, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos, UAS meets an equivalent level of safety pursuant to Section 333 of the 

Reform Act. The FAA is authorized to exempt aircraft from the airworthiness certificate 

requirement under both the Act (49 U.S. C.§ 44701 (f)) and Section 333 of the Reform Act. 

Both pieces of legislation permit the FAA to exempt UAS's from the airworthiness certificate 

requirement in consideration of the weight, size, speed, maneuverability and proximity to 

areas such as airports and dense populations. My UAS meets or exceeds each of the 

elements. 14 C.F.R. 91. 7(a) prohibits the operation of an aircraft without an airworthiness 

certificate. As no such certificate will be applicable in the form contemplated by the FARs, this 

Regulation is inapplicable. 14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b) (2) requires an aircraft flight manual in the 

aircraft. As there are no pilots or passengers, and given the size of the UAS's, this Regulation 

is inapplicable. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by maintaining a manual. The 

FAA has previously issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8607, 8737, 8738, 

9299, 9299A, 9565, 95658, 10167, maintenance program that involves regular software 

updates and curative measures for any damaged hardware. Therefore, an equivalent level of 

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safety will be achieved. In summary, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos 

seeks 

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an exemption from the following Regulations:14 C.F.R. 21, subpart H; 14 C.F.R. 45.23(b); 14 

C.F.R. §§ 61.113 (a) & {b); 14 C.F.R. §91.7 {a); 14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b)(2); 14 C.F.R. § 91.103{b); 

14 C.F.R. § 91.109; 14 C.F.R. §91.119; 14 C.F.R. § 91.121; 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a); 14 C.F.R. 

§§ 91.203(a) and {b); 14 C.F.R. § 91.405 (a); 14 C.F.R. § 91.407 (a)(1 ); 14 C.F.R. § 91.409 {a) 

{2); 14 C.F.R. § 91.409 (a) (2); and, 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.417 (a) & {b) to commercially operate my, 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, small unmanned vehicle/lightweight 

unmanned aircraft vehicle in community awareness, education, structural inspection land 

management, search and rescue and real estate operations, and to develop economic platforms 

for the aforementioned to enhance the experience of those seeking to relocate, 

rebuild, reevaluate and to find in the metro Milton, VT area. 

F. Additional FAA Required Operating Conditions and Limitations 

When not covered elsewhere in this Operations Manual, the following conditions and 

limitations apply: 

1. The UA must weigh less than 55 pounds {25kg), including energy source(s) 

and equipment 

2. The UA may not be flown at a speed exceeding a ground speed of 85 knots. 

3. Flights must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level 

(AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operator's manual. All 

altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL 

4. The UAS must be operated within visual 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 specified on the PIC's state driver's license. 

5. All operations must utilize a visual observer {VO). The VO may be used to satisfy the 

VLOS requirement, as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO 

and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. 

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6. If a discrepancy exists between these limitations and any procedure outlined elsewhere 

in this operations manual, the conditions and limitations herein take precedence and 

must be followed. 

7. Prior to each flight, the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure it is in a condition for safe 

flight. 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, if utilized, must be included in the preflight inspection. All 

maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records. 

8. 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 in accordance with the operator's manual. The PIC who conducts 

the functional test flight must make an entry in the UAS aircraft records of the flight. 

9. The operator must follow the manufacturer's UAS aircraft/component, maintenance, 

overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. When unavailable, aircraft 

maintenance/component/overhaul, replacement, and inspection/maintenance 

requirements must be established and identified in the operator's manual. At a minimum, 

the following must be included in the operator's manual: 

a. Actuators I Servos 

b. Transmission (single rotor) 

c. Powerplant (motors) 

d. Propellers 

e. Electronic speed controller 

f. Batteries 

g. Mechanical dynamic components (single rotor) 

h. Remote command and control 

i. Ground control station (if used) 

j. Any other components as determined by the operator 

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10. The Pilot in Command (PIC) must possess at least a sport pilot certificate and at least a 

current state driver's license. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements 

specified in 14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his/her pilot 

certificate. 

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11. Prior to operations conducted 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), a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 25 hours of total time as a UAS 

rotorcraft pilot and at least ten hours logged as a UAS pilot with a similar UAS type (single 

blade or multirotor). Prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance 

with applicable regulations may satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and 

experience-building flights can also be conducted under this grant of exemption to 

accomplish the required flight cycles and flight time. During training, proficiency, and 

experience-building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered 

non-participants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with appropriate distance from 

non-participants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119. 

12. Prior to operations conducted 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), a minimum of five hours as UAS pilot operating the make and model of UAS 

to be utilized for operations under the exemption and three take-offs and three landings in the 

preceding 90 days. Training, proficiency, experience-building, and take-off and landing 

currency flights can be conducted under this grant of exemption to accomplish the required 

flight time and 90 day currency. During training, proficiency, experience-building, and take-off 

and landing currency flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered 

non-participants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with appropriate distance from 

non-participants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119. 

13. Prior to any flight operations authorized by this grant of exemption, the PIC and visual 

observer (VO) must have successfully completed a qualification process, as outlined in 

the operator's manual. As this is a requirement stipulated by the operator, the test must be 

developed and implemented by a qualified person designated at the sole discretion of the 

operator. A record of completion of this qualification process must be documented and made 

available to the Administrator upon request. 

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14. Prior to operations conducted for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar 

operations}, a flight demonstration, administered by an operator-approved and -qualified pilot 

must be successfully completed and documented. This documentation must be available for 

review upon request by the Administrator. Because the knowledge and airmanship test 

qualifications have been developed by the operator, and there are no established practical test 

standards that support a jurisdictional FAA FSDO evaluation and approval of company 

designated examiners, the petitioner will conduct these tests in accordance with the operator's 

manual. 

15. The UAS may not be operated directly over any person, except authorized and consenting 

production personnel, below an altitude that is hazardous to persons or property on the surface 

in the event of a UAS failure or emergency. 

16. Regarding the distance from participating persons, the operator's manual has safety 

mitigations for authorized and consenting production personnel. At all times, those persons 

must be essential to the closed-set film operations. Because these procedures are specific to 

participating persons, no further FSDO or Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) approval is 

necessary for reductions to the distances specified in the petitioner's manuals. This is 

consistent with the manned aircraft procedures described in FAA Order 8900.1, V3, C8, S1 

Issue a Certificate of Waiver for Motion Picture and Television Filming. 

17. Regarding distance from non-participating persons, the operator must ensure that no 

persons are allowed within 500 feet of the area except those consenting to be involved and 

necessary for the filming production. This provision may be reduced to no less than 200 feet 

if it would not adversely affect safety and the Administrator has approved it. For example, an 

equivalent level of safety may be dete.rmined by an aviation safety inspector's evaluation of 

the filming production area to note terrain features, obstructions, buildings, safety barriers, 

etc. Such barriers may protect non-participating persons (observers, the public, news media, 

etc.) from debris in the event of an accident. This is also consistent with the same FAA Order 

8900.1, V3, C8, S 1. 18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA 

13 
must return to a pre-determined location within the security perimeter and land or be 

recovered in accordance with the operator's manual. 

18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a 

pre-determined location within the security perimeter and land or be recovered in 

accordance with the operator's manual. 

19. The UAS must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in 

accordance with the operator's manual. 

20. Each UAS operation must be completed within 30 minutes flight time or with 25% 

battery power remaining, whichever occurs first. 

14 

21. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or 

Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under this grant of 

exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman 

(NOT AM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the 

operation. 

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial 

number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification 

(N-Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings 

must be as large as practicable. 

23. The operator must develop procedures to document and maintain a record of the UAS 

maintenance, preventative maintenance, alterations, status of replacemenUoverhaul 

component parts, and the total time in service of the UAS. These procedures must be 

added to the operator's manual. 

24. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety 

Bulletins. 

25. The operator must develop UAS technician qualification criteria. These criteria must be 

added to the operator's manual. 

26. The preflight inspection section in the operator's manual must be amended to include the 

following requirement: The preflight inspection must account for all discrepancies, i.e. 

inoperable components, items, or equipment, not covered in the relevant preflight 

inspection sections of the operator's manual. 

14 
27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and 

control of the UAS must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or 

other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 

28. At least three days before scheduled filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this 

exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local FSDO with jurisdiction 

over the area of proposed filming. The 3-day notification may be waived with the 

concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities must include at least the following: 

a. Dates and times for all flights 

b. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the UAS filming 

production under this grant of exemption 

15 

c. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the on-scene operation 

ofthe UAS. 

d. Make, model and serial or N-number of the UAS to be used 

e. Name and certificate number of the UAS PIC's involved in the filming 

production event 

f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property 

owners and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the 

list of those who gave permission must be made available to the 

inspector upon request. 

g. Signature of exemption-holder or representative 

h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area, 

city, town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the 

altitudes essential to accomplish the operation 

29. The documents required under 14 CFR § 91.9 and§ 91.203 must be available to the PIC 

at the ground control station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These 

documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official 

upon request. 

30. The UAS must remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned operations 

and activities at all times {including, but not limited to, ultralight vehicles, parachute 

activities, parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.). 

15 
31. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All 

operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights 

under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 

32. The UAS cannot be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 

33. The UAS may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet 

horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC. 

34. The UAS may not operate in Class B, C, or D airspace without written approval from the 

FAA. The UAS may not operate within 5 miles of the geographic center of a non-towered 

airport 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 NOT AM as required by the operator's COA. The letter of agreement 

with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request. 

16 

35. Any 1) incident, 2) accident, or 3) flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to 

the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) UAS Integration Office (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. Further flight operations may 

not be conducted until the incident, accident, or transgression is reviewed by AFS-80 and 

authorization to resume operations is provided. 

Currently, the aforementioned aerial videography/photography relies primarily on the use of 

larger aircraft running on combustible fuel. Posing potential risk to the public. Granting my, 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos, request for exemption will reduce 

current 

risk levels and thereby enhance safety. My UAS craft do not contain potentially explosive fuel, 

is smaller, lighter and more maneuverable than conventional video and photographic aircraft 

with much less flight time. 

Further, I operate at lower altitudes and in controlled airspace eliminating potential public risk 

flying to and from established airfields. I, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos 

have been informally analyzing and recording flight information and will compile safety 

protocols and the implementation of a flight operations manual for usage that exceeds 

currently accepted means and methods for safe flight. Formal collection of information shared 

with the FAA will enhance the FAA's internal efforts to establish protocols for complying with 

16 
., 

17 

the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012. There are no personnel on board my, Bruce 

Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos UAS and therefore the likelihood of death or 

serious bodily injury is significantly diminished. My, Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos, operation of my UAS, weighing less than forty (40) pounds and traveling at 

tower speeds within limited areas low to the ground will provide an equivalent level of safety as 

that achieved under current FARs. Accordingly I Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' 

Photos-n-Videos respectfully request that the FAA grant my exemption request and am willing 

to cooperate in sharing information to benefit the FAA, safety of manned aircraft, and the 

general public at large. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Bruce Morrissey 

31 Streeter Brook 

Milton VT 05468 

Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos - owner 

Estb.1992 

10 

Appendix A 

List of Aircraft 

N Make and Model Description 

o. 

1 DJI Phantom 3 Electric powered, 4 rotor small 

unmanned multirotor helicopter 

Serial Registratio 

No. n 

N 

0. 

Pending 

Pending 

P76DGC07 

016517 

17 
Appendix A 

2. DJI Phantom 3 

The operation of the DJI Phantom 3 system is as follows. 

1. Build Materials 

I. Plastic 

II. Aluminum 

2. Motor Configuration 

I. The Phantom 3 flight in a 4 motor quadcopter setup. , 

3. Payload 

I. The Phantom 3 it's own integrated camera. 

II. Maximum All-up Weight- 41bs 

4. Maintaining the Phantom 3 

I. Before each flight: 

1. Check all hardware to ensure it is securely tightened. 

2. Check that the motor is level and locked in place. 

3. Check the propeller to ensure it is tight and there are no visible signs of cracks, stress, 

4. Check all wiring to motors, motor controllers, batteries, and flight controller for signs of 

5. Check all navigational lighting to ensure it is properly working. 

II. After 45 hours of flight 

1. Remove and check all motors and motor mounts for signs of wear and tear. Replace as 

necessary. 

18 

2. Remove motor controllers and visually inspect and check for damage. Replace as necessary. 

3. Remove flight controllers and visually inspect and check for damage. Replace as necessary. 

and/or chips. Replace if propeller is questionable. 

4. Check for cuts, fraying, cracks, and/or loose/cold solder connections. Fix before flying. 

5. Check for updates to flight controller firmware. If available, install and 

perform a minimum of 15 test flights before conducting commercial work. 

Personal Protocols/Controls/Flight Manual 

Protocols and Controls 

Bruce Morrissey DBA Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos Milton VT 05468 

18 
19 

Safety for public on the ground as well as manned aircraft above is an essential and utmost 

consideration for aerial videos and photography. As such, safety protocols and controls must be 

implemented through pre-flight preparation and during flight. Pre-Flight Protocol: 

Check batteries with voltage meter to insure fully charged and ready for use. 

Inspect batteries for damage or leakage that may affect proper operation. 

Inspect propellers for cracks, chips or damage that may cause sudden loss of propulsion or 

unmanageable/uncontrolled flight. 

Check all GPS and Telemetry connections prior to flight. 

Check weather forecasts for wind advisory or other conditions that my impact flight. 

Consult Sky Vector aeronautical Charts (Skyvector.com)for airport vicinity and flight paths of 

possible air traffic. 

Contact respective airport to advise of estimated flight time, estimated flight duration, estimated 

elevation of flight, and any other pertinent information. 

Inspect flight area for 

Vicinity of public safety helipads/heliports 

Vicinity of medical helipadslheliports 

Vicinity of light poles vicinity or utility wires 

Vicinity of trees flocks of birds that may cause interference and potential flight impact 

Vicinity of any elevated obstructions that may pose potential flight hazard 

Vicinity of roadways with moderate to heavy traffic that can be distracted public 

Gatherings that may attract viewers optional point of control for best visual site of UAS 

while in flight 

Emergency landing areas 

Takeoff and landing 

Inspect area for best and safest point of takeoff and tanding 

If in a subdivision or area that is within 150 feet of a residential street, post warning 

Sign(s)/stand(s) "Attention Aerial Photography In Progress Remain Back 150 Feet" 

Flight Protocol: takeoff and land from same location ( have alternate landing areas in case of 

emergencies) remain alert to birds, sound or aircraft, curious public, and approaching vehicles 

do not allow anyone to engage in conversation or distract the remote control pilot restrict flight to 

minimal elevation sufficient to acquire desired results remained prepared for emergency landing 

at all times pay attention to flight time -warning meter for low voltage. 

19 
Set voltage meter alarm for low voltage and flight timer as a safety alert land UAS and shut 

down propulsion immediately following landing - priority of disconnecting batteries 

Post flight: 

1. a) Disconnect battery to prevent accidental activation of propulsion system 

2. b) Secure UAS in a safe location 

c) Remove all warning signs from public access areas Emergency or Suspected Hazard: 

Immediate land UAS at safest and closet ground location in the event 

Manned aircraft is heard or seen in vicinity of flight 

20 

There is a public gathering within established safety boundary wanting to observe flight 

Pilot is being distracted from focusing on flight and safety 

Sudden change in weather (wind bursts) 

Sudden increase in vehicular traffic in vicinity of flight 

Birds enter into proximity of flight 

Any sudden unsafe event that can cause collision, distraction or interruption of control 

Safety for public on the ground as well as manned aircraft above is an essential and utmost 

consideration for aerial videos and photography. 

Maintaining a record of safe flight for FAA request and for determining future UAS safety 

protocols is imperative. 

Date: ________ _ 

Location: ______________________ _ 

pre-flight Inspection: 

o Yes o No 

Comment:----------------------

Elements 

20 
.. 

21 

Proximity to airport: --------(see attached map pinpointing approximate location 

of flight) 

Airport notified: No Yes 

Date: _______ Time:------

Phone Number:----------

Contact Name: ______________ _ 

Nearest major intersection: 

Proximity to medium traffic road: 

Proximity to heavily traveled roadway road: 

Proximity to congested population: 

Approx. Takeoff Time: GMT: 

Weather Good Fair Poor Comment: 

Visibility Good Fair Poor Comment : 

Wind Speed _mph _Gusts/MPH _avg/MPH Comment : 

Approx. Landing Time: GMT: Estimated Elevation Ground level: 

Safety Concerns: 

Additional Comments: 

sea level: 

Appendix 'D' 

Aircraft Manuals 

21 
\ 

\ 

22 

This Appendix includes UAS manufacturer's user manuals, maintenance instructions, and 

illustrated parts catalogs. These manuals may be attached to the docket when submitted. 

Information regarding design, aircraft performance, fail-safe features, operating limitations, 

normal and emergency procedures, and maintenance and inspection procedures is contained 

within the manuals and supplemental information documents listed below: 

1. Phantom 3 Professional Manual V1.0 

2. Phantom 3 Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines v1.0 (EN) 

F~=?l?fo or qijestions about this manual please contact: 

Bruce Morrissey ~ · 

Smugglers' Photos-n-Videos 

31 Streeter Brook 

Milton VT 05468 

USA 

22 
PHANTOM 3 

( PROFESSIONAL ) 

User Manual (v1.6] 

2015.10 

/ 
0. Searching for Keywords 

Search for keywords such as "battery" and "install" to find a topic. If you are using Adobe Acrobat 

Reader to read this document, press Ctrl+F on Windows or Command+F on Mac to begin a search. 

cb Navigating to a Topic 

View a complete list of topics in the table of contents. Click on a topic to navigate to that section. 

Using this manual 

_j 

0 Warning & Important ~ Hints and Tips li!il Reference 

[Read Before the First Flight -"-~ ~- ----·- - ---

Read the following documents before using the Phantom 3 Professional: 

1.1ntheBox 

2. Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

3. Phantom 3 Professional Quick Start Guide 

4. Phantom 3 Professional 1 Advanced Safety Guidelines and Disclaimer 

5. Phantom 3 Professional 1 Advanced Intelligent Right Ba«ery Safety Guidelines 

We recommend that you watch all tutorial videos on the official DJI website and read the Disclaimer 

before you fly. Prepare for your first flight by reviewing the Phantom 3 Professional Quick Start Guide and 

refer to the User Manual for more detailed information. 

(i/ideo Tutorials -----~----· 

Please watch the tutorial videos at the link below, which demonstrates how to use Phantom 3 Professional 

safely: 

http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-3Mdeo 

[~()Wnloa~ the DJIG __ O_a_.P__,_P ___ ~--~--~~-~--~- Download and install the OJI GO app before using the aircraft. Scan the QR code to the right 

to download the latest version. 

The Android version of the OJI GO app is compatible with Android 4.1.2or later. 

The iOS version of the OJI GO app is compatible with iOS 8.0 or later. 

2 © 2015 DJI. All AighiS Reserved. 

-

-
Contents 

Using this manual 

Legends 2 

Read Before the First Flight 2 

Video Tutorials 2 

Download the DJI GO app 2 

Product Profile 

Introduction 6 

Feature Highlights 6 

Preparing the Aircraft 6 

Aircraft Diagram 8 

Remote Controller Diagram 8 

Aircraft 

Flight Controller 11 

Flight Mode 11 

Flight Status Indicator 11 

Return-to-Home (RTH) 12 

Smart RTH 12 

Low Battery RTH 13 

Failsafe RTH 14 

Vision Positioning System 15 

Flight Recorder 16 

Attaching and Detaching the Propellers 17 

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery 18 

Remote Controller 

Remote Controller Profile 23 

Using the Remote Controller 23 

Remote Controller Status LED 27 

Linking the Remote Controller 28 

Remote Controller Compliance Version 29 

©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 3 
Camera and Gimbal 

Camera Profile 31 

Gimbal 32 

DJIGOapp 

Camera 35 

Director 38 

Store 38 

Discovery 38 

Flight 

Flight Environment Requirements 40 

Flight Limits and No-Fly Zones 40 

Preflight Checklist 44 

Calibrating the Compass 44 

Auto Takeoff and Auto Landing 45 

Flight Test 46 

Starting/Stopping the Motors 46 

Troubleshooting (FAQ) 

Appendix 

Specifications 54 

Firmwares Update 56 

Intelligent Flight Mode 56 

After-Sales Information 56 

FCC Compliance 57 

4 © 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved. 
Product Profile 

This section introduces the Phantom 3 

Professional and lists the components of 

the aircraft and remote controller. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rig hiS Reserved. 5 
Product Profile 

The Phantom 3 Professional represents the next generation of DJI quadcopters. It is capable of capturing 

4K video and transmitting an HOyideo signal out of the box. The buill·in camera has an integrated gimbal 

to maximize stability while minimizing both weight and size. Even when no GPS signal is available, the 

Vision Positioning System allows the aircraft to hover accurately in place. 

Feature Highlights -----······-·-~. 

Camera and Gimbal: W!lh the Phantom 3 Professional, you're shooting 4K video at up to 30 frames per 

second and capturing 12 megapixel photos that look crisper and cleaner than ever. An enhanced sensor 

gives you greater clarity, tower noise, and better pictures than arnt previous flying camera. 

HD Video Downlink: The low-latency long range HD downlink is powered by an enhanced version of OJI 

Ughtbridge. 

OJIIntemgent Aight Battery: The 4480 mAh OJI Intelligent Aight Battery features upgraded battery cells 

and an advanced power management system. 

Aight Controller: The next·generation flight controller has been updated to provide a safer, more reliable 

flight experience. A newly implemented flight recorder stores critical data from each flight and the Vision 

Positioning System enhances hovering precision when flying indoors or in environments where GPS is 

unavailable. 

Removing Gimbal Clamp 

Remove the gimbal clamp by sliding it to the fight (when facing the nose of the aircraft), as shown below. 

6 @ 2015 OJL All Rights ReseNed. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Attaching the Propellers: 

Mount the propellers with black dots on to motors with black axes and spin counter-clockwise to secure. 

Mount the propellers with sliver dots on to motors with sliver axes and spin clockwise to secure. Be sure 

all propellers are securely in place . 

..&. Place all propellers onto the correct motors and tighten by hand to lock them in posftion. 

Battery Installation 

Slide battery into the battery compartment according to the arrow's direction shown below. Make 

sure that you hear a click sound indicates the battery is firmly installed. Failure to do so may affect 

the flight safety of your aircraft. 

Preparing the Remote Controller: 

The mobile device holder is designed for securing tablet or mobile device. Tilt the mobile device holder to 

the desired position, then adjust the antennas so they are facing outward. 

1. Press the button on the top right side of the mobile device holder to release the clamp, then adjust the 

clamp to fit the size of your mobile device. 

2. Secure your mobile device in the clamp by pressing down, and connect your mobile device to the 

remote controller using a USB cable. 

3. Plug one end of the cable into the mobile device, and the other end into the USB port on the back of 

the remote controller. 

@ 2015 OJI. All Rights Res!l!'Jed. 7 
, 

a 

c. 

c: 

!2. 

, 

~ m 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

(8] 

(7) 

[6] 

[12) 

[15] 

[8) 

[7) 

[6] 

~ ~;== F= 1!-..... 

(5 ~ 

""""'9 

••• 1 ) 

8 @ 2015 OJ!. All Rights Reserved. 

[1] 

[2] 

[3] 

[4) 

[5] 

(9] 

(10) 

[11] 

[13] 

[14] 

(1] 

[2] 

[3] 

[4] 

[5) 

[1) GPS 

[2] Propeller 

[3] Motor 

[4) Front LED Indicator 

[5] Landing gear 

[6] Gimbal and Camera 

[7] Camera Status Indicator 

[8) Aircraft Micro-USB Port 

[9) Aircraft Status Indicator 

[10] Intelligent Aight Battery 

[11) Vision Positioning Sensors 

[12] Antennas 

[13] Camera Micro-SO Card Slot 

[14) Camera Micro-USB Port 

[15] Link Button 

[1) Antennas 

Relays aircraft control and 

video signal. 

[2) Mobile Device Holder 

Securely mounts your mobile 

device to the remote controller. 

[3] Control Stick 

Controls the orientation and 

movement of the aircraft. 

[4] Return Home (RTH) Button 

Press and hold the button to 

initiate Retum to Horne (RTH). 
[5] Battery Level LEOs 

Displays the battery level of the remote 

controller. 

[6] Status LED 

Displays the remote controller's system status. 

[7] Power Button 

Used to turn the remote controller on and off. 

[8) RTHLED 

Circular LED around the RTH button displays 

RTH status. 

{9) Camera Settings Dial 

Turn the dial to adjust camera settings. 

(Only functions when the remote controller is 

connected to a mobile device running the DJl 

GOapp.) 

[1 OJ Playback Button 

Playback the captured images or videos. 

(Only functions when the remote controller is 

connected to a mobile device running the DJl 

GOapp.) 

[11] Shutter Button 

Press to take a photo. If burst mode is 

selected, the set number of photos will be 

taken with one press. 

[12] Flight Mode Switch 

Switch between P-mode. A-mode. and 

F-mode. 

[13] VIdeo Recording Button 

Press to start recording video. Press again to 

stop recording. 

[1 n C1 Button 

Customizable through the DJI GO app. 

[ 18] C2 Button 

Customizable through the DJI GO app. 

[19] Power Port 

Connect to the DJl Phantom 3 Charger to 

charge the battery of the remote controller. 

Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

[15] [16] 

[14] --ll.tiii\f=i--r==;r.iii:IA--[9] 

~~ ~m 

[12] [11] 

[14] Gimbal Dial 

Use this dial to control the tilt of the gimbal. 

[15] Mircro-USB Port 

Reserved port. 

[16] USB Port 

Connect to mobile device or to a USB port for 

firmware upgrade. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rig~IS Reserved. 9 
Aircraft 

This section introduces the features of 

the Flight Controller, Vision Positioning 

System, and the Intelligent Flight Battery 

10 © 2015 DJI. AQ Rights Reserved. 
Aircraft 

The Phantom 3 Professional's flight controller features several important upgrades, including a new flight 

mode. Safely modes include Fallsafe and Return-to-Home. These features ensure the safe return of your 

aircraft if the control signal is lost. The flight controller can also save critical flight data from each flight 

to the on-board storage device. The new !fight controller also provides increased stability and a new air 

braking feature. 

Mode 

Three flight modes are available. The details of each flight mode are found below: 

P-mode (Positioning) : P-mode works best when GPS signal is strong. There are three different states 

of P-mode, which will be automatically selecled by the Phantom 3 Professional depending on signal 

strength of GPS and Vision Positioning sensors : 

P-GPS: GPS and Vision Positioning both are available. The aircraft is using GPS for positioning. 

P-OPTI: Vision Positioning is avallable but the GPS signal strength is not sufficient. The aircraft is 

using only the Vision Positioning System for positioning. 

P-ATTI: Neither GPS nor Vision Positioning is available. The aircraft is using only its barometer for 

positioning, so only altitude can be stabilized. 

A-mode (Altitude): GPS and Vision Positioning System are not used for stabilization. The aircraft only uses 

its barometer. The airctaft can still automatically return to the home point if the control signal is lost and 

the Home Point was recorded successfully. 

F-mode (Function): Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) is activated in this mode. For more information 

aboutiOC, refer to the IOC section in the Appendix. 

(F Use the Right Controller mode switch to change the flight mode of the aircraft, refer to the "Right 

Mode Switch" on Page 26 for more information. 

Status Indicator 

The Phantom 3 Professional has FrontlEDs and Aircraft Status Indicators. The positions of these lEDs 

are shown in the figure below: 

Airel aft Status Indicator 

Front LED 

The Front LEOs show the orientation of the aircraft. The Front LEOs glow solid red when the aircraft is 

tumed on to indicate the front (or nose) of the aircraft. The Aircraft Status Indicators communicate !he 

system status of the flight controller. Refer to the table below for more information about the Aircraft Status 

Indicators: 

0 2015 DJI. All RightS Reserved. 11 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

I.Ai~~raft Status Indicator Description .._ ___ - ------ -~------------- --~ --~------ ----· -·- -------------------

Nonnal 

~ ...... Red, Green and Yellow Rash 

Alternatively 

~ ...... Green and Yellow Flash Alternatively 

'tf$!:······Green Flashes Slowly 

~ ...... Green Rashes Twice 

$ ...... Yellow Rashes Slowly 

Warning 

:1$ ...... Fast Yellow Rashing 

~ ...... Slow Red Rashing 

:f/!.!:·· ····Fast Red Rashing 

-'1/J:!: · · · · · · Red Flashing Alternatively 

~-Solid Red 

M ······Red and Yellow Rash Alternatively 

[Return-to-Home (RTH) -- --~--------

Turning On and Self Diagnostic Testing 

Warming Up 

Safe to Ry (P-mode with GPS and Vision 

Positioning) 

Safe to Fly (P-rnode with Vision Positioning but 

without GPS) 

Safe to Ry (A-mode but No GPS and Vision 

Positioning) 

Rernote Controller's Signal Lost 

Low Battery Warning 

Critical Battery Warning 

IMU Error 

Critical Error 

Compass Calibration Required 

The Return-to-Horne (RTH) function brings lhe aircraft back to lhe last recorded Horne Point. There are 

three types of RTH procedures: Smart RTH, Low Battery RTH, and Failsafe RTH. This section describes 

these three scenarios in detail. 

GPS 

Home Point ~ .... 1 

Description 

If a strong GPS signal was acquired before takeoff, the Home Point 

is the location from which the aircraft was launched. The GPS signal 

strength is indicated by the GPS icon ( ~.u .. ). The aircraft status 

indicator will blink rapidly when the home point is recorded. 

[?111~-~ RT_I--f ________ ~_ ---------

Use the RTH button on the remote controller (refer to "RTH button" on page 26 for more infonnation) 

or tap the RTH button in the DJI GO app and follow the on-screen instructions when GPS is available to 

initiate Smart RTH. The aircraft will then automatically return to the last recorded Home Point. You may use 

the remote controller's control sticks to control the aircraft's position to avoid a collision during the Smart 

RTH process. Press and hold the Smart RTH button once to start the process, and press the Smart RTH 

button again to tenninate the procedure and regain full control of the aircraft. 

12 © 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

n _] 

The low battery level failsafe is triggered when the DJI Intelligent Flight Battery is depleted to a point that 

may affect the safe return of the aircraft. Users are advised to return horne or land the aircraft immediately 

when prompted. The DJI GO app will display a notice when a low battery warning is triggered. The 

aircraft will automatically return to the Horne Point if no action is taken alter a ten-second countdown. The 

user can cancel the RTH procedure by pressing the RTH button on the remote controller. The thresholds 

for these warnings are automatically determined based on the aircraft's current attitude and distance from 

the Home Point. 

The aircraft will land automatically if the current battery level can only support the aircraft long enough 

to descend from its current altitude. The user can still use the remote controller to alter the aircraft's 

orientation during the landing process. 

The Battery Level Indicator is displayed in the DJI GO app, and is described below: 

Battery Level 

Warning 

Low battery 

level warning 

Critical Low 

battery level 

warning 

Estimated 

remaining 

flight time 

Critical Low battery level Sufficient battery 

warning(Aed) levei(Green) 

Low battery 

level warnlng(Yellow) Remaining flight time 

Remar1< 

The battery 

power is low. 

Please land the 

aircraft. 

The aircraft 

must land 

immediately. 

Estimated 

remaining flight 

based on current 

battery level. 

Power requires to return home 

Battery level indicator 

Aircraft Status 

Indicator 

Aircraft status 

indicator blinks 

RED slowly. 

Aircraft status 

indicator blinks 

RED quickly. 

N/A 

DJIGOapp Right Instructions 

· Tap "Go-home" to have the 

aircraft return to the Home Ry the aircraft 

point and land automatically, back and land 

or "Cancel" to resume normal it as soon as 

flight. If no action is taken, possible, then 

the aircraft will automatically stop the motors 

go home and land after 1 0 : and replace the 

. seconds. Remote controller battery. 

will sound an alarm. 

The DJI GO app display will Allow the aircraft to 

flash red and the aircraft will descend and land 

start to descend. The remote 

controller will sound an alarm. automatically. 

N/A N/A 

@I 2015 OJI. All Rights Reserved. 13 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Q • When Critical battery level warning is triggered and the aircraft begins to land automatically, 

you may push the throttle upward 1o make the aircraft hover at i1s current altitude, giving you an 

opportunity to navigate to a more appropriate landing location. 

• The colored zones and markers on the battery level indicator bar reflect the estimated 

remaining flight lime. They are automatically adjusted according to the aircraft's current location 

and status. 

If the Home Point was successfully recorded and the compass is functioning normally, Failsafe RTH will 

be automatically activated if the remote controller signal is lost for more than three seconds. The Returnto-Home process may be interrupted and the operator may regain control of the aircraft if the remote 

controller signal connection is re-established. 

Failsafe Illustration 

1 Record Home Point 

Blinking Green 

2 Confirming Home Point 

~~rtlll 

• 

Blinking Green 

3 Remote Controller Signal Lost 

"T 

• 

Fast Blinking Yellow 

4 Signal lost Lasts (after 3 sec.) 6 ~(after~ ICY 5 sees) 

-,r- T ... • • 

Fast Blinking Yellow Fast Blinking Yellow Fast Blinking Yellow 

Lh • Aircraft cannot retum to the Home Point When GPS signal is weak { [ 11r.tull] displays grey) or 

unavailable. 

• Aircraft automatically descends and lands if RTH is triggered When the aircraft flies within a 20 

meters (65 feet) radius of the Home Point. Aircraft will stop ascending and immediately retum to 

the Home Point if you move the throttle stick if the aircraft reaches 20 meters (65 feet) altitudes 

or beyond during Failsafe. 

• The aircraft cannot avoid obstruction during the Failsafe RTH, therefore, it is important to set an 

suitable Failsafe altitude before each flight Launch the DJI GO app and enter ·camera· and 

select "MODE > Advanced Settings > Failsafe mode" to set the Failsafe altitude. 

• User cannot control the aircraft while the aircraft is ascending to its failsafe altnude. However, 

user can press RTH button once to exit ascending and regain control. 

Failsafe Safety Notices 

14 © 2015 OJ!. All Rights Reserved. 

The aircraft cannot avoid obstruction during the Failsafe RTH, therefore, it 

is important to set an suitable Failsafe altitude before each flight. Launch 

the DJI GO app and enter "Camera" and select "MODE > Advanced 

Settings > Failsafe mode" to set the Failsafe altnude. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

If the aircraft is flying under 20 meters (65 feet) and Failsafe (including 

Smart RTH, Lower Battery RTH ) is triggered, the aircraft will first 

automatically ascend to 20 meters (65 feet) from the current altitude. 

You can only cancel the ascending by exiling the Failsafe. Refer to "RTH 

Button" on page 26 lor more information on how to exH the Failsafe and 

regain the control of the remote controller. 

Aircraft automatically descends and lands if RTH is triggered when the 

aircraft flies within a 20 meters (65 feet) radius of the Home Point. Aircraft 

will stop ascending and immediately return to the Home Point if you move 

the throttle stick if the aircraft reaches 20 meters {65 feet) altitudes or 

beyond during Failsafe. 

Aircraft cannot return to the Home Point when GPS signal is weak 

( [ le tllll l displays grey) or unavailable. 

if you move the throttle stick after the aircraft rises above 65 feet 

(20m) but below the pre-set Failsafe RTH altitude, the aircraft will stop 

ascending and immediately return to the Home Point. 

-~ 

The DJI Vision Positioning System uses ultrasound and image data to help the aircraft maintain its current 

position. With the help of Vision Positioning, your Phantom 3 Professional can hover in place more precisely 

and fly indoors or in other environments where a GPS signal is not available. The main components of the 

Vision Positioning System are located on the bottom of your Phantom 3 Professional; they include [2) two 

ultrasonic sensors and [1) one monocular camera. 

Using Vision Positioning 

{1] 

{2] 

Vision Positioning is activated automatically when the Phantom 3 Professional is turned on. No 

further action is required. Vision Positioning is typically used in indoor environments, where GPS 

is unavailable. Using the sensors that are built into the Vision Positioning system, the Phantom 3 

Professional can hover precisely even without GPS. 

~ / 

y 

~ 

/ ~ 

~ 02015 OJ!. All Rights Reserved. 15 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Follow 

1. Toggle 

the steps 

the flight 

below 

mode 

to use 

switch 

Vision 

to P-mode. 

Positioning: e 

2. Place the aircraft on a flat surface. Note that the Vision Positioning system cannot • 

work property on surfaces withoul clear pattem variations. '. 

3. Turn on the aircraft. The aircraft slatus indicator will flash green two times, which 

indicates the VISion Positioning system is ready. Gently push the throttle up to lilt off 

and the aircraft will hover in place. 

& The performance of your Vision Positioning System is affected by the surface over which it is 

flying. The ultrasonic sensors may not be able to accurate~ measure distances when operating 

above sound-absorbing materials. In addition, the camera may not function correctly in 

suboptimal environments. The aircraft will switch from P-mode to A-mode automatically if ne~her 

GPS nor Vision Positioning System are available. Operate the aircraft with great caution in the 

following s~uations: 

• Flying over monochrome surfaces (e.g. pure black, pure while, pure red. pure green). 

• Flying over a highly reflective surfaces. 

• Flying at high speeds( over 8 m/s at 2 meters or over 4 m/s at 1 meter). 

• Flying over water or transparent surfaces. 

• Flying over moving surfaces or objects. 

• Flying in an area where the lighting changes frequently or drastically. 

• Flying over extremely dark (lux< 10) or bright (lux> 100,000) surfaces. 

• Flying over surfaces that can absorb sound waves (e.g. thick carpet). 

• Flying over surfaces wilhout clear patterns or texture. 

• Flying over surfaces with identical repeating patterns or textures (e.g. tiles with the same design). 

• Flying over inclined surfaces that will deflect sound waves away from lhe aircraft. 

:J:;): • Keep the sensors clean at all times. Dirt or other debris may adversely affect the effectiveness 

of the sensors. 

• Vision Positioning is only effective when the aircraft is at altitudes of 0.3 to 3 meters. 

• The Vision Positioning System may not function proparly when the aircraft is flying over water. 

• The VISion Positioning System may not be able to recognize pattern on the ground in low light 

conditions (less than 100 lux). 

• Do not use other ultraSOtlic devices with frequency of 40 KHz when Vision Positioning system is 

in operation. 

• Vision Positioning System may not be able to stabilize the aircraft when flying close to the 

ground (below 0.5 meters) at fast speeds .. 

0 Keep the animals away from the aircraft when Vision Positioning system is activated. The sonar 

sensor emits high frequency sounds that are only audible to some ani mats. 

Flight data is automatically recorded to the internal storage of the aircraft. This includes flight 

telemetry, aircraft status information, and other parameters. To access these data. connect the 

aircraft to the PC through the Micro..USB port and launch the DJI GO app. 

16 © 2015 OJI. All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

~ttaching and Detachi_n_~~he ~ropell_e_rs __ _ 

Use only DJI approved propellers with your Phantom 3 Professional. The grey and black nuts on 

the propeller indicate where they should be attached and in which direction whey should spin. To 

attach the propellers properly, match the nut color with the motor axis color. 

! Propellers 

Rgure 

Attach On 

Silver Dot 

Motors with a grey axes 

Black Dot 

Motors with a black axes 

Legends ci'~ Lock: Turn the propellers in the indicated direction to mount and tighten. 

"b ') Unlock : Turn the propellers in the indicated direction to loosen and remove. 

Attaching the Propellers 

1. Be sure to remove the warning stickers from the motors before attaching the propellers. 

2. Attach the propellers with silver dots onto the motors with silver axes and spin the propellers clockwise 

to secure them in place. Attach the propellers with black dots onto the motors with black axes and 

spin the propellers counter-clockwise to secure them in place. Be sure to tighten each propeller by 

hand before flight. 

& • Ensure the propellers are attached to the correct motors. Only using the propller with the same 

model. 

• lighten the propellers with both hands before each flight. 

• Ensure that all propellers are in good condition before each flight. DO NOT use aged, chipped, 

or broken propellers. 

• Stand clear of the motors and DO NOT touch the propellers when they are spinning. 

Detaching the Propellers 

Hold the motor in place with one hand, then spin the propeller in the indicated unlock direction. 

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

• Ensure that all propellers are in good condition before each flight. DO NOT use aged, chipped, 

or broken propellers. 

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

• ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience. 

@ 201S DJI. All Aighls Reserved. 17 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

foJIInte.lligent Flight BatterY ~- ... --- __ .. ____ "~"·~ --~-- --- The DJIIntelligent Right Battery has a capacity of 4480 mAh, a voltage of 15.2 V, and a smart charge/ 

discharge functionality. lt should only be charged using an appropriate charger that has been approved 

byDJI. 

Intelligent Flight Ballery ~ ~ Charger 

,&. The Intelligent Flight Battery must be fully charged before using it for the first time. Refer to 

"Charging the Intelligent Right Battery• for more information. 

~ Be aware that the output power of the supplied Phantom 3 Professional charger is 100W. 

DJIIntelligent Right Battery Functions 

1. Battery Level Display: the LED indicators display the current battery level. 

2. Battery Life Display: the LEOs display the current battery power cycle. 

3. Auto-Discharging Function: To prevent swelling, the battery automatically discharges to below 65% of 

total power when it is idle for more than ten days. It takes around two days to discharge the battery to 

65%. It is normal to feel moderate heat being emitted from the battery during the discharge process. 

Discharge thresholds can be set in the DJI GO app. 

4. Balanced Charging: Automatically balances the voltage of each battery cell when charging. 

5. Overcharge Protection: Charging automatically stops when the battery is fully charged. 

6. Temperature Detection: The battery will only charge when the temperature is between O"C (32"F) and 

40°C (104"F). 

7. Over Current Protection: The battery stops charging when high amperage (more than 8 A) is detected. 

8. Over Discharge Protection: To prevent over-discharge damage, discharging automatically stops when 

the battery voltage reaches 12 V. 

9. Short Circuit Protection: Automatically cuts the power supply when a short circuit is detected. 

10. Battery Cell Damage Protection: The DJI GO app displays a warning message when a damaged 

battery cell is detected. 

11. Battery Error History: Browse the battery error history in the DJI GO app. 

12. Sleep Mode: To save power, the battery enters sleep mode after 20 minutes of inactivity. 

13. Communication: Information pertaining to the battery's voltage, capacity, current, etc. is transmitted to 

the aircraft's main controller. 

,&. Refer to Phantom 3 Professional I Advanced Intelligent Right Battery Safety Guidelines before 

use. Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage. 

Using the Battery 

18 © 2015 DJI. An Rights Reserved. 

,------LED1 

LED2 

LED3 

i'---'r-LED4 

Power Button (Bulit-in LED) 

'--~;;;;;p-'-- Ballery Level indicators 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Turning ON/OFF 

Turning On: Press the Power Bution once, then press again and hold for 2 seconds to turn on. The 

Power LED will turn red and the Battery level Indicators will display the current battery level. 

Turning Off: Press the Power Bution once, then press again and hold for 2 seconds to turn off. The 

batiery power LED will flash when powering off the Phantom to allow automatically stopping 

of a recording during the event recording wasn't stopped. 

~ The Battery Level Indicators will also show the current battery level during charging and 

discharging. The indicators are defined below. 

0 : LED is on. fi : LED is flashing. 

0 : LED is off. 

Battery Level 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Battery Level 

0 0 0 0 87.5%-100% 

0 0 0 n 75%-87.5% 

0 0 0 0 62.5%-75% 

0 0 n 0 50%-62.5% 

0 0 0 0 37.5%-50% 

0 n 0 0 25%-37.5% 

0 0 0 0 12.5%-25% 

n 0 0 0 0%-12.5% 

0 0 0 0 =0% 

Low Temperature Notice: 

1. Battery capacity is significantly reduced when flying in low temperature ( < O"C) environments. 

2. It is not recommended that the battery be used in extremely low temperature ( < -10"C) environments. 

Battery voltage should reach the appropriate level when operating environment with temperatures 

between -1o•c and 5•c. 

3. End the flight as soon as the DJI GO app displays the "Low Battery level Warning" in low temperature 

environments. 

4. Keep the battery indoors to wann it before flying in low temperature environments. 

5. To ensure optimal perfonnance of the battery, keep the battery temperature above 20"C. 

6. The charger will stop charging the battery if the battery cell's temperature is not within the operating 

range (O"C - 40"C ). 

Lf). In cold environments, insert the battery into the battery compartment and allow the aircraft for 

approximately 1-2 minutes to wann up before taking off. 

Checking the Battery Level 

The Battery Level Indicators display how much p<)wer remains. When the battery is turned off, press 

the Power Button once. The Batiery level Indicators will light up to display the current battery level. See 

below for details. 

11) 20Hl OJL All Rights Resetved. 19 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Battery life 

Batte!)' life refers to how many more times the battel)' can be discharged and recharged before it must 

be replaced. When the battel)' is turned off. press and hold the Power Button for 5 seconds to check the 

ballel)' life. The Batte!)' Level Indicators will light up and/or blink for two seconds, as shown below: 

Battery Life 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LE04 Batte!)' Life 

0 0 0 0 90%-100% 

0 0 0 n 80%-90% 

0 0 0 0 70%-80% 

0 0 n 0 60%-70% 

0 0 0 0 50%-60% 

0 n 0 0 40%-50% 

0 0 0 0 30%-40% 

n 0 0 0 20%-30% 

0 0 D 0 below20% 

Lh When battel)' life reaches 0%, it can no longer be used. 

EEl Rlr more infonnation about the ballel)', launch the OJI GO app and check the information that is listed 

under the ballel)' tab. 

Charging the Intelligent Right Battery 

1. Connect the Sattel)' Charger to a power source ( 1 OQ..240 V 50/60 Hz). 

2. Open the Protection Cap and connect the Intelligent Right Balle!)' to the Batte!)' Charger. If the battel)' 

level is above 95%, turn on the battel)' before charging. 

3. The Batte!)' Level Indicator will display the current battel)' level as it is charging. 

4. The Intelligent Flight Batte!)' is fully charged when the Batte!)' Level Indicators are all off. 

5. Air-cool the Intelligent Right Batte!)' alter each flight. Allow its temperature to drop to room temperature 

before storing it for an extended period. 

Lh • We do not recommend charging the Intelligent Right Batte!)' and remote controller with the 

standard charger at the same time, otherwise the charger may overheat. 

• A~eys turn off the battel)' before inserting it or removing it from the Phantom 3 Professional. 

Never insert or remove a battel)' when it is turned on. 

Intelligent Flight Battery Charger 

20 @2015 DJI. All Rights Roserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

: Battery Level Indicators While Charging 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Battery Level 

n 0 n 0 0%-25% 

n n 0 0 25%-50% 

n n n 0 50%-75% 

n n n n 75%-100% 

0 0 0 0 Fully Charged 

Battery Protection LED Display 

The table below shows battery protection mechanisms and corresponding LED patterns. 

Battery Level Indicators while Charging 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Blinking Pattern Battery Protection Item 

0 n 0 0 LED2 blinks twice per second Over current detected 

0 n 0 0 LED2 blinks three times per second Short circuit detected 

0 0 n 0 LED3 blinks twice per second Over charge detected 

0 0 n 0 LED3 blinks three tirries per second Over-110ltage charger detected 

0 0 0 n LED4 blinks twice per second Charging temperature is too low 

0 0 0 n LED4 blinks three times per second Charging temperature is too high 

After these issues are resolved, press the Power Button to turn off the Battery Level Indicator. Unplug the 

Intelligent Flight Battery from the charger and plug it back in to resume charging. Note that you do not 

need to unplug and plug in the charger in the event of a room temperature error; the charger will resume 

charging when the temperature is within the allowable range. 

& DJI does not take any responsibility for damage caused by third-party chargers. 

~ How to discharge your tntemgent Flight Battery: 

Slow : Place the Intelligent Flight Battery into the Phantom 3 Professional's Battery Compartment 

and turn it on. Leave it on until there is less than 8% of power left, or until the battery can no 

longer be turned on. Launch the DJI GO app to check battery levels .. 

Rapid : Fly the Phantom 3 Professional outdoors until there is less than 8% of power left, or until 

the battery can no longer be turned on. 

(!:)2Q150JI. An Rights Reserved. 21 
Remote Controller 

This section describes the features 

of the remote controller and includes 

instructions for controlling the aircraft 

and the camera. 

22 © 20'5 DJL All Rights Reserved. 
Remote Controller 

lRerr1ote Controller Pro_fi_le~~···· ... -~-·--

The Phantom 3 Professional remote controller is a multi-function wireless communication device that 

integrates the video downlink system and aircraft remote control system. The video downlink and aircraft 

remote control system operate at 2.4 GHz. The remote controller features a number of camera control 

functions, such as taking and previewing photos and videos, as well as controlling gimbal motion. 

The remote controller is powered by a 2S rechargeable battery. The battery level is displayed via LED 

indicators on the front of the remote controller. 

I:I!l ·Compliance Version: The remote controller is compliant with both CE and FCC regula~ons. 

• Operating Mode: Control can be set to Mode 1 or Mode 2, or to a custom mode. 

• Mode 1: The right stick serves as the throttle. 

• Mode 2: The left stick serves as the throttle. 

&, To prevent transmission interference, do not operate more than three aircrafts in the same area. 

~~i"!l~:t!!~!3e_r:r_10te Contr~~~!--~----~~--... -~~ ..... --.~- .... J 

T uming the Remote Controller On and Off 

The Phantom 3 Professional remote controller is powered by a 2S rechargeable battery that has a 

capacity of 6000 mAh. The battery level is indicated via the Battery Level LEOs on the front panel. Follow 

the steps below to turn on your remote controller: 

1. When the remote controller is turned off, press the Power Button once. The Battery Level LEOs will 

display the current battery level. 

2. Press and hold the Power Button to tum on the remote controller. 

3. The remote controller will beep when it is turned on. The Status LED will rapidly blink green, indicating 

that the remote controller is linking to the aircraft. The Status LEOs will glow solid green when linking is 

complete. 

4. Repeat Step 2 to turn off the remote controller. 

Charging the Remote Controller 

Charge the remote controller using the included charger. Refer to the figure on next page below for more 

details. 

@I 2015 DJJ. All Rights ReseiVOO. 23 
Phantom 3 Pr<>fessional User Manual 

Power Button 

Controlling the Camera 

Shoot videos/pictures, view recorded images, and adjust camera settings via the Shutter Button, Camera 

Settings Dial, Playback Button, and Video Recording Button on the remote controller. 

[1] Camera Settings Dial 

Turn the dial to adjust camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture without letting go of 

the remote controller. Move the dial to left or right to scroll through pictures and videos in playback 

mode. Press down on the dial to toggle between these settings. 

[2] Playback Button 

Press to view images and videos that have already been captured. 

[3} Shutter Button 

Press to take a photo. If burst mode is activated, multiple photos will be taken with a single press. 

[4] Video Recoding Button 

Press once to start recording video, then press again to stop recording. 

[5] Gimbal Dial 

Use this dial to control the tilt of the gimbal. 

Controlling Aircraft 

This section explains how to control the orientation of the aircraft through the remote controller. The 

Remote Control is set to Mode 2 by default. 

24 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reservea. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

I:El Stick Neutral/l\llid-Point Control sticks are in the center position. 

Moving the Control Stick: The control stick is pushed away from the center position. 

Remote Conlroller 

(Mode2) 

Aircraft 

( •Indicates Nose Direction) Remarks 

Moving the left stick up and down changes the 

aircraft's elevation. 

Push the stick up to ascend and down to dascend. 

When both sticks are centered, the Phantom 3 

Professional will hover in place. 

The more the stick is pushed away from the center 

position, the faster the Phantom 3 Professional will 

change elevation. Always push the stick gently 

to prevent sudden and unexpected elevation 

changes. 

Moving the left stick to the left or right controls the 

rudder and rotation of the aircraft. 

Push the sick left to rotate the aircraft counterclockwise, push the stick right to rotate the aircraft 

clockwise. If the stick is centered, the Phantom 3 

Professional will maintain its current orientation. 

The more the stick is pushed away from the center 

position, the faster the Phantom 3 Professional will 

rotate. 

Moving the right stick up and down changes the 

aircraft's forward and backward pitch. 

Push the stick up to fly forward and down to fly 

backward. Phantom 3 Professional will hover in 

place if the stick is centered. 

Push the stick further away from the center position for 

a larger pitch angle (maximum 30) and faster flight. 

Moving the right stick control left and right changes 

the aircraft's left and right pitch. 

Push left to fly left and right to fly right. The 

Phantom 3 Professional will hover in place if the 

stick is centered. 

Gimbal Dial: Tum the dial to the right. and the 

camera will shift to point upwards. Turn the 

dial to the left, and the camera will shift to point 

downwards. The camera will remain in its current 

position when dial is static. 

@ 2015 DJL All Rights ResolVed. 25 

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Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Adjusting Controller Sticks 

Hold and twist the controller sticks clockwise or counter clockwise to adjust 

the length of the controller sticks. A proper length of controller sticks can 

improve the controlling accuracy. 

Flight Mode Switch 

Toggle the switch to select the desired flight mode. 

You may choose between; P-mode, F-mode and Amode. 

Position Figure Right Mode 

Position 1 &> F-mode 

Position2 db A-mode 

Position3 @ P-mode 

Position 1 &> 

Position2~ 

Position3@ 

~ P-mode (Positioning): P-mode works best when the GPS signal is strong. There are three different 

versions of P-mode, which will be automatically selected by the Phantom 3 Professional depending on 

GPS signal strength and the Vision Positioning sensors: 

P-GPS: GPS and Vision Positioning both are available; the aircraft is using GPS for positioning. 

P-OPTI: Vision Positioning is available but a sufficient GPS signal is not available. Aircraft is using 

only Vision Positioning for position holding. 

P-ATTI: Neither GPS nor Vision Positioning is available, the aircraft is using only its barometer for 

positioning, so only altitude is maintained. 

A-mode (Attitude): GPS and Vision Positioning System are not used for stabilization. The aircraft uses 

only its barometer to stabilize. The aircraft can automatically return to the Home Point if remote controller 

signal is lost and the Home Point was recorded successfully. 

F-mode (Function): Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) is activated in this mode. For more information 

about IOC, refer to the IOC section in the Appendix. 

By default, the Flight Mode Switch is locked toP-mode. To unlock other flight modes, launch the DJI GO 

app, enter the "Camera" page, and tap "Mode", then activate "Multiple Flight Mode". 

RTH Button 

Press and hold the RTH button to start the Return-to-Home (RTH) procedure. The LED ring around the RTH 

Button will blink white to indicate that the aircraft is entering RTH mode. The aircraft will then return to the 

last recorded Home Point. Press this button again to cancel the RTH procedure and regain control of the 

aircraft. 

26 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Connecting Your Mobile Device 

Titt the mobile device holder to the desired position. Press the button on the side of the mobile device holder 

to release the clamp, and then place your mobile device into the cradle. Adjust the clamp down to secure the 

mobile device. To connect your mobile device to the remote controller using a USB cable, plug one end of 

the ceble into your mobile device and the other end into the USB port on the back of the remote controller. 

Optimal Transmission Range 

The transmission signal between the aircraft and the remote controller is most reliable within the area that 

is depicted in the image below: 

Optimal T ransmlssion Range 

0§~ 

8-6 

strong weak 

Ensure that the aircraft is flying within the optimal transmission zone. To achieve the best transmission 

performance, maintain the appropriate relationship between the operator and the aircraft . 

. Remote Controller Status LED 

The Status LED reflects the strength of the connection between the remote controller and the aircraft. The 

RTH LED indicates the Return-to-Home status of the aircraft. The table below contains more information 

about these indicators. 

Status LED 

© 2015 [).JI. All Rights Resemtl. 27 

:::0 

<1> 

3 

0 

m 

0 

0 

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~ 

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Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

! Status LED AI ann 

:t/fl:-SolidRed f Chime 

:tfJJ:- Solid Green f Chime 

:f$1: · · · · · · Slow Blinking Red 0-0-0 ...... 

H:ttfll.:f$ ...... Red and Green/ Red and None 

Yellow Alternate Blinks 

! RlHLED Sound 

tfJI:- Solid White /Chime 

~ ...... Blinking White o ... 

~ ...... Blinking White 00 ...... 

Remote Controller Status 

The remote controller is disconnected from the aircraft. 

The remote controller is connected to the aircraft. 

Remote controller error. 

HD downlink is disrupted. 

Remote Controller Status 

Aircraft is returning home. 

Sending Return-to-Home command to the aircraft. 

Return-to-Home procedure in progress. 

& The Remote Status Indicator will blink red and sound an alert, when the battery level is critically low. 

[1:0_1<_!!1~ t~~~~()te Contro~~~r:_~-· ·--______ _ 

The remote controller is linked to your aircraft before delivery. Linking is only required when using a new 

remote controller for the first time. Follow these steps to link a new remote controller: 

1. Turn on the remote controller and connect to the mobile device. Launch the OJI GO app. 

2. Tum on the Intelligent Right Battery. 

3. Enter "Camera" and tap on ~"" ,1111 and then lap "Linking RC" button as shown below. 

( RC Control Sett1ng X 

RC Calibration > 

Slick Mode > 

Oefauft stick mode fs Mode 2, changing stick modes aners tho way the Wrcmrt Is controlled. 

Do not change unless familiar with your new mode. 

c1(._ __ N_o_t_D_e_fi_ned __ __, C2 I,___...;N~o:::t.:::D:..:e::..:fin~e:::d:..._ _ _J 

28 ~ 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved. 

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the beck 

oflheAC. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

4. The remote controller is ready to link. The Remote Controller Status Indicator blinks blue and a beep is 

emitted. 

< RC Control Setttng X 

RC Calibration 

Stick Mode 

Oefau 

Dono 

It stick roode Is M 

t change untess fi 

C1 l NolO 

> 

> 

Scorching for oircruft frequency, 

timeout in 54 seconds he aircraft Is cont rolled. 

Press the linking buttOn on the aircraft 

to link this remote contmfler 

Cancel Defined I 

Yeo can customiZe the C1 and C2 bunons on the back 

of the RC. 

5. Locate the linking button on the side of the aircraft, as shown in the figure below. Press the link button 

to start linking. The Remote Controller Status Indicator LED will display a solid green once the remote 

controller is successfully linked to the aircraft. 

& • The remote controller will un-link itself from an aircraft if a new remote controller is linked to the 

same aircraft. 

[Remote Controller Compliance Version .. ~-- ~--- ~ ··------ --- --~-~-~--~----~ 

The remote controller is compliant with both CE and FCC requirements. 

© 2015 OJ!. All Rights Reserved. 29 

,--, 

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Camera and Gimbal 

This section provides the technical 

specifications of the camera and 

explains the gimbal's operation modes. 

\ 

30 © 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved. 
Camera and Gimbal 

The on-board camera uses the 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensor to capture video (up to 4096x2160p at 24fps or 

4K at up to 30fps with the Phantom 3 Professional) and 12 megapixel stills. You may choose to record 

the video in either MOV or MP4 format. Available picture shooting modes include burs~ continuous, and 

time-lapse mode. A live preview of what the camera sees can be monitored on the connected mobile 

device via the OJI GO app. 

Camera Micro-SO Card Slot 

To store your photos and videos, insert the Micro-SO card into the slot, as shown below, before 

turning on the Phantom 3 Professional. The Phantom 3 Professional comes with a 16GB Micro-SO 

card and supports Micro-SO cards up to 64 GB. A UHS-1 Micro-SO card is recommended due to 

their fast read and write speeds allowing you to save high-resolution video data. Gl 

0 Do not remove the Micro-SO card from the Phantom 3 Professional when it is turned on. 

Camera Data Port 

Tum on the Phantom 3 Professional and connect a USB cable to the Camera Data Port to download 

photos and videos to your computer. 

e-~ ........ ~ ... t:"· ~ 

.&. The aircraft must be turned on before attempting to access the fnes on the Micro-SO card. 

® 2015 OJ I. All Rlg~ls Reserved. 31 

3' 

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Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Camera Operation 

Use the Shutter and Video Recording buttons on the remote controller to shoot the images or videos 

through the DJI GO app. For more information about how to use these buttons, refer to "Controlling the 

Camera Page 24". 

Camera LEO Indicator 

Camera LED Indicator lights up after the flight battery is powered on. It provides information on the 

working status of the camera. 

: Camera LED Indicator { - -- -

:t/J!: Green Fast Blink (0.2s off, 0.1s on ) 

~Green Blink Once (0.5s off, 0.4s on) 

:t/J!: Green Blink 3 Times (0.3s off, 0. 1s on ) 

:/f5!: Slow Red Blink (1 .6s on, 0.8s off ) 

:f/il: Fast Red Blink (0.5s off, 0.2s on ) 

:f/!!..:f/Jl: Double Red Blink (0.1s on, 0.1soff, 0.1s on. 0.1s off) 

:f/JJ:Sotid Red 

~:/f5!:Green and Red Blink (0.8s green on, 0.8s red on) 

Gimbal Profile 

Camera status 

System is warming up. 

Taking a single picture. 

Taking 3 or 5 photos per shot 

Recording. 

SD card error. 

Overheated Camera 

System error. 

Rrrnware Upgrading 

The 3-axis gimbal provides a steady platform for the attached camera, allowing you to capture clear, 

stable images and video. The gimbal can tilt the camera within a 120· range. 

-90° 

Use the gimbal dial on !he remote controller to control the tilt movement of the camera. 

32 © 2015 OJ!. All RlghiS Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Gimbal Operation Modes 

Two gimbal operation modes are available. Switch between the different operation modes on the 

camera settlngs page of the DJI GO app. Note that your mobile device must be connected to the remote 

controller for changes to take effect. Refer to the table below for details: 

Follow Mode The angle between gimbal's orientation and aircraft's nose remains 

constant at all times. 

FPVMode 

The gimbal will synchronize with the movement of the aircraft to provide a 

first-person perspective flying experience. 

& • A gimbal motor error may occur in these situations: ( 1) the aircraft is placed on uneven ground 

or the gimbal's motion is obstructed (2} the gimbal has been subjected to an excessive 

external force, such as a collision. Please take off from flat, open ground and protect the gimbal 

at all times. 

• Flying in heavy fog or clouds may make the gimbal wet, leading to temporary failure. The 

gimbal will recover full functionality after it dries. 

Anti-Drop Kit 

The anti-drop kit helps keep the gimbal and camera connected to the aircraft. Two pins have been 

mounted prior to shipping. If new or additional pins are required. see the diagram below. Press Part 

CD through the hole of the vibration absorber and into the center hole of Part ® , then lock them together 

as shown@. Mounting the anti-drop kit pins diagonally from each other is recommended. 

© 2015 OJI. All Righls Reserved. 33 
DJI GO app 

This section introduces the four main 

functions of the DJI GO app. 

34 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 
DJI GO app 

The DJI GO app is a mobile application designed specifically for the Phantom 3 Professional. USe this 

app to control the gimbal, camera, and other aircraft functions. The app also features Map, Academy, 

and User Center, which are used for configuring your aircraft and sharing your photos and videos with 

others. It is recommended that you use a tablet lor the best experience . 

• 

PHANTOM3 

PFIOF:ESS!OHAL 

The Camera page contains a live HD video feed from I he Phanlom 3 Professional's camera. You can also 

configure various camera parameters from the Camera page. 

[9] 

[10) 

[12] [11) 

~ 20150JJ. All Rights Reserved. 35 
Phantom3 Professional User Manual 

[1] Flight Mode 

~: The text next to this icon indicates the current flight mode. 

Tap to configure the MC (Main Controller) Settings. These settings allow you to modify flight limits and 

set the gain values. 

The aircraft is set to "Beginner Mode" by default The aircraft cannot fly 30 meters (98 feet) higher 

and beyond the recorded Home Point under beginner mode. Disable this mode in the MODE 

[2] GPS Signal Strength 

A .• 111 : This icon shows the current strength of GPS signals. Green bars indicate adequate GPS 

strength. 

[3] IOC Settings 

~ CL: This icon displays the IOC setting when the aircraft has entered F-mode. Tap to view the IOC 

settings menu and select the desired IOC setting. 

[4] System Status 

: So!aro~(GPs(: This icon indicates the current aircraft system status and GPS signal strength. 

[5] Battery Level Indicator 

--: The battery level indicator provides a dynamic display of the battery level. The colored 

zones on the battery level indicator represent the power levels needed to carry out different functions. 

[6] Remote Controller Signal 

~l' 11111: This icon shows the strength of remote controller's signal. 

[7] HD VideO Unk Sigr'lal Strength 

~ .. 111: This icon shows the strength ol the HD video downlink connection belween the aircraft and 

the remote controller. 

[8] Battery Level 

fA lOOCM,: This icon shows the current battery level. 

Tap to view the battery information menu, set the various battery warning thresholds, and view the 

battery warning history. 

[9] General Settings 

:=:: Tap this icon to view the General Settings page. From this page, you can set flight parameters, 

reset the camera, enable the quick view feature, adjust the gimbal roll value, and toggle the flight 

route display. 

[1 OJ Camera Operation Bar 

Shutter and Recording Settings 

11!0: Tap to enter various camera value settings, including color space for the recording, resolution 

of the videos, image size and so on. 

36 @ 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Shutter 

• :Tap this button to take a single photo. Press and hold this button to select single shot, triple shot 

or time-lapsed shooting modes. 

Record 

0: Tap once to start recording video, then tap again to stop recording. You can also press the 

Video Recording Button on the remote controller, which has the same functionality. 

Playback 

~ :Tap to enter the playback page. You can preview photos and videos as soon as they are 

captured. 

Camera Settings 

:ir. Tap to set ISO, shutter and auto exposure values of the camera. 

[11) Map 

Display the flight path of the current flight. Tap to switch from the Camera GUI to the Map GU I. 

[12) Vision Positioning 

f+ : The distance of the aircraft from the Home Point. When the aircraft is near the ground, this icon 

will change to ~ to display the height the Vision Position System's sensors from the ground. 

[13) Flight Telemetry 

H: 39M 0: 210M 

~~S ~ H.S ~2.3MJS ~4.2 MIS 

The Vision Positioning Status icon is highlighted when the Vision Positioning is in operation. 

Right attitude is indicated by the flight attitude icon. 

(1) The red arrow shows which direction the aircraft is facing. 

(2) Light blue and dark blue areas indicate pitch. 

(3) The angle of the boundary between the light blue and dark blue areas indicates the roll angle. 

[14) Dynamic Home Point 

' : Press this button to enable the dynamic home point feature, the home point then will be reset to 

position of the mobile device. 

(15) Return to Home (RTH) 

c£ : Initiate RTH horne procedure. Tap to have the aircraft return to the last recorded home point. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 37 

0 

'-
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

[16] Auto Takeoff/Landing 

t!::,J ~:Tap to initiate auto takeoff or landing. 

[17] Livestream 

~ : Livestream icon indicates the current video feed is broadcasting live on YouT ube. Be sure the 

mobile data serviCe is available on the mobile device. 

[18] Back 

ft : Tap to rerum to the main GUI. 

Director is an automatic video editor built into the DJI GO app. After recording several video clips, simply 

tap "Director" from the app's home screen. You can then select a template and a specified number of 

clips, which are automatically combined to create a short film that can be shared immediately. 

Tap "Store• to vis~ the official DJI Online Store to see the latest information about DJI products and easily 

buy new products. 

Sync pictures and videos to your mobile device, view flight logs, and check your OJ! account status in 

'Discovery". Use your registered DJI account to login to 'Discovery'. 

38 @ 2015 OJI. All AighlS Resem"t 
Flight 

This section describes safe flight 

practices and flight restrictions. 

© 2015 DJL All Rights Reserved. 39 
. .., 

I 

Flight 

Once pre-flight preparalion is complete, it is recommended that you use the flight simulator in the DJI GO 

app to hone your flight skills and practice flying safely. Ensure that all flights are carried out in an open 

area. 

! Flight Environment Requirements l. ---~~~ -~~--~~~ ·~-~-·----~--~---~~~~-~~-

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

snow, rain and fog. 

2. Only fly in open areas. Tall structures and large metal structures may affect the accuracy of the onboard compass and GPS system. 

3. Avoid obstacles, crowds, high voltage power lines, trees, and bodies of water. 

4. Minimize interference by avoiding areas with high levels of electromagnetism, including base stations 

and radio transmission towers. 

5. Aircraft and battery performance is subject to environmental factors such as air density and 

temperature.Be very careful when flying at altitudes greater than 19, 685 feet (6000 meters) above sea 

level, as the performance of the battery and aircraft may be affected. 

6. The Phantom 3 Professional cennot operate within the polar areas. 

All unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators should abide by all regulations set forth by government and 

regulatory agencies including the ICAO and the FAA. For safely reasons, flights are limited by default, 

which helps users operate this product safely and legally. Right limitations include height limits, distance 

limits, and No-Ay Zones. 

When operating in P-mode, height limits, distance limits, and No-Ay Zones function concurrently to 

manage flight safety. In A-mode, only height limits are in effect, which by default prevent the aircraft 

altitude from exceeding 1640 feet (500 m) . 

Maximum flight altitude & Radius Limits 

Maximum flight altitude and radius limits may be changed in the OJI GO app. Be aware that the maximum 

flight altitude cannot exceed 1640 feet (500 meters). In accordance with these settings, your Phantom 3 

Professional will fly in a restricted cylinder, as shown beiow: 

Maximum Fllght Altitude 

40 @I 2015 OJ I. All Rights Reserved. 

Max Radius 

Home Point 

~f----7- Height of aircraft 

when turned on 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

. GPS Signal Strong-~':':······ Blinking Green 

Flight Umits DJIGOapp 

Maximum Flight Aircraft's altitude cannot Warning: Height 

Al!ilude exceed the specified value. limit reached. 

Max Radius Right distance must be within Warning: Distance 

the max radius. 

GPS Signal Weak :ff!j ..... ·Blinking Yellow 

Right Umits 

Maximum 

Flight 

Altitude 

Max Radius 

Height is restricted to 400 

feet. (120m) and under. 

No limits 

limit reached. 

DJIGOapp 

Warning: Height limit 

reached. 

Aircraft Status Indicator 

None. 

Rapid red flashing ® 

...... when close to the 

max radius limit. 

Aircraft Status Indicator 

None. 

• 1f you fly out of the limit, you can still control the Phantom 3, but cannot fly it any father. If the 

& Phantom 3 flies out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode, it will fly back within 

range automatically. 

•lf the Phantom 3 flies out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode, it will fly back 

within range automatically. 

No-AyZones 

All No-Fly Zones are listed on the DJI official website at http://llysafe.dji.com/no-fly. No-Fly Zones are 

divided into Airports and Restricted Areas. Airports include major airports and flying fields where manned 

aircraft operate at low altitudes. Restricted Areas include border lines between countries or sensitive 

institute. The details of the No-Fly Zones are explained as follow: 

Airport 

(1) Airport No-Fly Zone are comprised of Take-off Restricted zones and Restricled Altitude Zones. Each 

zone features circles ot various sizes. 

(2) R1 miles (value of the R1 depends on the size and shape of the airport) around the airport is a Takeoff restricted zone, inside of which take off is prevented. 

(3) From R1 mile to R1 + 1 mile around the airport the flight attitude is limited to a 15 degree inclination. 

Starting at 65 feet (20 meters) from the edge of airport and radiating outward. The flight altitude is 

limited to 1640 feel (500 meters) at R1 + 1 mile 

(4) When the aircraft enters within 320 feet (100 meters) of No-Fly Zones, a warning message will appear 

on the DJI GO app. 

@ 2015 OJ!. All Rights ReseiVed. 41 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

Restricted Area 

~ ( 1) Restricted Areas does not have flight altitude restrictions. 

;:r (2) R miles around the designated restriction area is a Take.off Restricted area. Aircraft cannot take off 

within this zone. The vatue of R varies based on the definnion of the restricted areas. 

(3) A "warning zone" has been set around the Restricted Area. When the aircraft approaches within 0.062 

miles (100m) of this zone, a warning message will appear on the DJI GO app. 

1-Restrlcted Area -1 

.io;i"-: "!: -

I . 

42 @ 2015 OJ!. AH Alghts Reserved. 
Phantom 3 Professional User Manual 

GPS Signal Strong @:······Blinking Green 

Aircraft 

Zone Restriction DJI GO app Prompt Status 

ll'l!fteator 

Motors will not start. Warning: You are in a No-fly 

zone. Take off prohibited. 

No-fly Zone If the aircraft enters the 

0 restricted area in A-mode, bul is Waming: You are in a no-fly zone. switched 1o P-mocte, the aircraft 

will automatically descend, land, Automatic landing has begun. 

and stop its motors. 

R1: Waming: You are in a :fiSt: ...... 

If the aircraft enters lhe restricted restricted zone. Descending to Red flashing Restricted- area in A-mode, bul is switched safe altitude. 

altitude flight to P-mode, it will descend to an R2: Waming: You are in a 

zone appropriate altitude and hover restricted zone. Maximum flight 

0 15 feet below the altitude limit. altitude is restricted to between 

20m and 500m. Ay cautiously. 

Warning zone No flight restriction applies, but Waming: You are approaching a 

cs there will be a warning . restricted zone, Ay cautiously. 

Free zone 

c~ No restrictions. None. None. 

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

during the descent and landing process. Motors will stop aulomalically after landing. 

Lh • When flying in a safety zone, the aircraft's status indicator will blink red rapidly and continue 

for 3 seconds, then switch to indicate current flying status and continue for 5 seconds at which 

point it will switch back to blinking red. 

• For safety reasons, please do not fly close to airports, highways, railway stations, railway lines, 

city centers, or other sensitive areas. Ay the aircraft only within your line of sight 

@ 2015 OJL All Rights Reserved. 43 
Phantom3 Professional User Manual 

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

2. Propellers are mounted correctly and firmly. 

3. Micro-SO card has been inserted, if necessary. 

4. Gimbal is functioning normally. 

5. Motors can start and are functioning normally. 

6. The DJI GO app is successfully connected to the aircraft. 

f Calibrating the Compass l ____ ·- ---·~-· ~-~-~------· ---~------------------

IMPORTANT: Always calibrate the compass in every new flight location. The compass is very sensitive 

to electromagnetic interference, which can produce abnormal compass data and lead to poor flight 

performance or flight failure. Regular calibration is required for optimal performance. 

0 • Do not calibrate your compass where there is any possibility of strong magnetic interference. 

Sources of potential interference include magnetite, parking structures, and subterranean 

metal structures 

• Do not carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular 

nhonP.!';.