Cincinnati Electronics

7500 Innovation Way 

Mason, OH 45040 

513-573-6100 Fax: 513-573-6741 

www.L-3Com.com/ce

28 January 2016 In Reply, Please Refer to Letter #GLMOVHD01282016 

Federal Aviation Administration 

US Department of Transportation 

Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Ave. S.E. 

Washington, D.C. 20590 

Subject: L-3 Communications Cincinnati Electronics Exemption Request for Section 333 of FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

Dear Sir or Madam, 

L-3 Communications Cincinnati Electronics (L-3 CE) seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 

61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to 

operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 

2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit L-3 CE to operate a UAS for the purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States. 

Use and Interests of the petitioner 

The objective of L-3 CE's aerial video and photography operations is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of 

defense related product development. 

Background 

The Infrared Products Division of L-3 Cincinnati Electronics (L-3 CE) is a leading manufacturer of IR imaging 

systems and surveillance products which provide best in class detection, identification and classification for US 

military. Based on more than 40 years experience in the design, development, and integration of IR devices in the 

defense/military and commercial sectors, L-3 CE’s IR thermal imaging technology delivers superior performance 

and reliability. 

L-3 CE sensors and thermal imaging systems empower our national security on every level. Our technologies 

increase situational awareness, enhance surveillance capabilities, and aid in the detection and deterrence of potential 

threats. The proven performance and reliability of our systems improves the safety of our military forces and 

homeland security professionals. In conflict zones, our high performance systems empower the warfighter with 

real-time intelligence for dominant maneuver and precision engagement. 

L-3 CE seeks an exemption to operate 3D Robotics Solo, Turbo Ace Infinity 6 and Turbo Ace Infinity 9 multi-rotor 

aircraft within the national air space (NAS). The 3D Robotics Solo (3DRSOLO), Turbo Ace Infinity 6 

(INFINITY6), Turbo Ace Infinity 9 (INFINITY9), and DJI Inspire 1 (INSPIRE) are each vertical takeoff and 

landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet, smart 

phone systems or laptop computer. Each aircraft to be operated by L-3 CE will be registered in accordance with 49 

U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R. Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and marked in accordance 

with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking.
2 

Basis For Petition 

Petitioner, L-3 CE, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft 

Systems, hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9, and 

INSPIRE UAS in the NAS, and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 

91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). In consideration of the speed, 

weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, L-3 CE's operation 

of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and 

therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Accordingly, 

L-3 CE requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these 

sections set forth requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. 

L-3 CE submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. L-3 CE will 

use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the 

UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE Instruction Manuals). Furthermore, L-3 CE will 

document and maintain all maintenance records for the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS. 

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot 

in command, is requested by L-3 CE to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private 

pilot or higher level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting 

minimum flight- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency 

maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, aircraft, vehicles and structures. 

 

L-3 CE seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H. As such, L-3 CE submits that we will ensure that the U AS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every 

flight, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, 

and 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE Instruction Manuals), and that the aircraft are in a condition 

for safe flight. 

L-3 CE also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. 

However, altitude information of 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS will be provided to the 

PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which 

downlinks from the UAS to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined 

with L-3 CE's operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS within visual line of sight, 

at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Additionally, L-3 CE seeks an 

exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151 (b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. L-3 

CE submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE 

UASs during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with 

enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing 

and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, 

L-3 CE provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption: 

1. Name And Address Of The Petitioner. 

L-3 Cincinnati Electronics 

7500 Innovation Way 

Mason, Oh 45040 
3 

2. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which L-3 CE Seeks Exemption. 

A L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) and (b). Section 61.113, entitled Private 

pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant 

part:

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying 

passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an 

aircraft. 

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business 

Or employment if-- 

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and 

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

B L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a). Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft 

airworthiness, subsection (a), states the following: 

No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. 

C L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121. 

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in part: 

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case 

may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating-- 

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

(ii) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft; 

(iii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, the current reported 

altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or 

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate 

altimeter setting available before departure. 

D L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b). 

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection (b), states the following: 

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather 

conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to 

fly after that for at least 20 minutes. 

E L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a). 

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: 

Each owner or operator of an aircraft-- 

(a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, 

except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this 

chapter[.] 

F L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.407(a)(1) Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or 

alteration, subsection (a)(l), states the following: 

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

alteration unless-- 

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

G L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 

91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2). 

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections, subsection (a), states the following: 

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the 

preceding 12 calendar months, it has had -- 
4 

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a 

person authorized by§ 43.7 of this chapter; or 

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter. 

H L-3 CE Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.417(a) and 91.417(b). 

Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records, subsections (a) and (b), state the following: 

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with§§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall 

keep the following records for the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section: 

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 100-hour, annual, 

progressive, and other required or approved inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and 

each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include-- 

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and 

(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and 

(iii) The signature and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service. 

(2) Records containing the following information: 

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each rotor. 

(ii) The current status of life-limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance. 

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a 

specified time basis. 

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last inspection required by the 

inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained. 

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, 

the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety 

directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required. 

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by§ 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently 

installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances. 

(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed: 

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(l) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded 

by other work or for 1 year after the work is performed. 

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and transferred with the aircraft at the 

time the aircraft is sold. 

(3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this chapter shall be retained until 

the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service. 

3. The Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks The Relief. 

I Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b). 

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is 

requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current 

and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, to conduct the 

proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in 

Section 61.1 13(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in 

connection with any business or employment if: 

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or 

property for compensation or hire. As set forth more fully below, L-3 CE submits that an equivalent level of safety 

will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight hour 

and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Further, L-3 CE submits that all flights each 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE, conducted by the 

PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to L-3 CE business; and (2) will not carry passengers 

or property for compensation or hire. 
5 

J Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Section 91. 7(a). 

Relief from Section 91.7 (a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, is requested to the extent required to allow L-3 CE 

to determine that the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs is in airworthy condition prior to 

every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE Instruction Manuals). L-3 CE seeks the requested 

relief because the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs does not require an airworthiness 

certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, L-3 CE will ensure that the 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs are in an airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the 

operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE 

Instruction Manuals) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as 

stated in the conditions and limitations below. 

K Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Section 91.121. 

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight operations of the 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a 

radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UAS to the PIC at the ground 

control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported 

to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), L-3 CE seeks the requested relief because 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS's altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the 

local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight. Considering the limited altitude of the proposed 

operations, relief from 14 C.F.R. 91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions 

and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since 

the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs is equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and 

GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each 

flight, and provides the PIC with altitude information of the UAS on the heads-up display of the GCS. 

L Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b). 

Relief from Section 91.151 (b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, is requested to the extent 

required to allow flights of the battery powered 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs during 

daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 

13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 

4.5 minutes. L-3 CE seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151 (b), the flight 

time duration of the battery powered 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs will severely 

constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that L-3 CE proposes to conduct pursuant 

to this Petition. Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications and operating documents of the 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE, and L-3 CE' proposed operating limitations, ensure that L-3 CE 

will safely operate the battery powered 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs during daylight 

hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly 

for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly 

after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

M Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a)

Since Section 91.405(a) only applies to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, L-3 CE requests relief from these 

Sections because 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not require airworthiness 

certificates. As set forth more fully below, the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs meet the 

conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, L-3 CE will use 

trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in UAS operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE User Manuals). Furthermore, L-3 CE will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs. 
6 

N Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Sections 91.407(a)(l)

Since Section 91.407(a)(l) only applies to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, L-3 CE requests relief from these 

Sections because 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not require airworthiness 

certificates. As set forth more fully below, the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs meet the 

conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, L-3 CE will use 

trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in UAS operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE User Manuals). Furthermore, L-3 CE will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs. 

O Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Sections 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2)

Since Sections 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, L-3 CE requests relief 

from these Sections because 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not require airworthiness 

certificates. As set forth more fully below, the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs meet the 

conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, L-3 CE will use 

trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in UAS operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE User Manuals). Furthermore, L-3 CE will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs. 

P Extent Of Relief L-3 CE Seeks And The Reason L-3 CE Seeks Relief From Sections 91.417(a) & (b).

Since Sections 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, L-3 CE requests relief from 

this Sections because 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not require airworthiness 

certificates. As set forth more fully below, the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs meet the 

conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, L-3 CE will use 

trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, 

techniques, and practices prescribed in UAS operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE User Manuals). Furthermore, L-3 CE will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs. 

4. The Reasons Why Granting L-3 CE Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would 

Benefit The Public As A Whole.

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing L-3 CE to safely, efficiently, and 

economically perform aerial video and photography of landscape over certain areas of the United States. 

Additionally, use of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs will decrease congestion of the 

NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of L-3 CE' proposed 

operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs will be realized without implicating any 

privacy issues. 

Q The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS. 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY and INSPIRE UASs are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and 

economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount 

of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial video and photography, an exemption allowing the use of a 3DRSOLO, 

INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce 

noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. Furthermore, 

by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and 

departing aircraft will be reduced. The 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not require an 

airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography 

missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, 

departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations. 

R The public will benefit from the safety and efficiency of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE 

UASs. 
7 

Conducting aerial video and photography with the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs, 

instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution 

generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric 

motors, 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs produces no air pollution, and is the most viable 

environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are 

typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20-30 gallons per hour of leaded 

aviation fuel. The 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS, while reducing the carbon footprint of 

aerial video and photography, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UA is propelled by battery powered electric 

motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. By using the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and 

INSPIRE UASs to perform aerial video and photography, the substantial risk to life and property in the air and on 

the ground, which is usually associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially 

reduced or completely eliminated. 

S Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and 

INSPIRE UAS Will Benefit The Economy. 

In addition to being safe and efficient, the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS is also an 

economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of a 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS will allow United States based companies, like L-3 CE, to 

remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel 

and the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") regulatory actions phasing out leaded aviation fuels, U.S. owned 

and operated companies must adopt new and alternative technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the 

battery powered 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs is one such technology that not only 

allows companies greater operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without 

the high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft. 

T There Are No Privacy Issues. 

Similar to the manned aerial video and photography flight operations that have been conducted for decades, L-3 CE' 

proposed operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs will not implicate any privacy 

issues. Specifically, the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS will be operated only in 

compliance with operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 

and INSPIRE Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement 

notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements 

of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. E. 

5. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption 

Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which L-3 CE 

Seeks Exemption.

U Reasons Why 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs Meet The Conditions Of The 

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333. 

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft (UA) 

and its operation, L-3 CE' operation of a 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs meets the 

conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 

21, Subpart H. Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and sets forth 

requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise 

pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part: 

V In General--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of 

enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may 

operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the plan and rulemaking required by section 

332 of this Act or the guidance required by section 334 of this Act. 

W Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary 

shall determine, at a minimum-- 
8 

a) (1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational 

capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard 

to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and 

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 44704 of 

title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph 

(1). 

X Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft 

systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe 

operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system. 

b)

c) In seeking this exemption, L-3 CE submits that the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE 

UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of 

the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the 

specific operating limitations. 

Y The Specifications Of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS Demonstrate their Safe 

Characteristics. The 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs do not create a hazard to users of 

the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and 

operational capability. 

a) Technical Specifications Of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs. The technical 

specifications of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs are set forth in the 

appendices and attachments. 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The 

UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area. The 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE 

UASs may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. 

Flight Operations Of 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs Are Limited To The Line Of Sight 

Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer. 

L-3 CE will only utilize certificated pilots to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist all pilots during flight time. 

Z Flights 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific 

Operating Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, L-3 CE proposes to commercially operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and 

INSPIRE UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United 

States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations: 

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the 

operating documents, rotorcraft UASs weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: the 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of 

any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant. 

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of aerial 

video and photography. 

3. The UAS may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 45 knots. 

4. The UAS must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated 

by the procedures specified in the operating documents unless a special request is made and approved by 

ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 
9 

5. 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 

FAA-issued airman medical certificate. 

6. The use of first person view (FPV) goggles by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted. 

7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as 

long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally 

at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be 

designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The 

PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents. 

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air 

traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or flight 

instruments, but may relay radio communications. 

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during UAS operations and made 

available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations 

contained in the grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions 

and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the 

operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or 

revise its operating documents. It is the operator's responsibility to track such revisions and present updated 

and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated and 

revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator 

determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, 

then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA's UAS Integration 

Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating 

documents. 

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe 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 must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance 

and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records. 

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight 

characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The 

PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records. 

12. The pre-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. inoperable components, items, or 

equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating documents. 

13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer's aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, 

inspection, and life limit requirements. 

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance 

with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul 

component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work 

accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS to service. 

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

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the corrective action taken against 

discrepancies discovered between inspections. 
10 

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current third- class medical certificate. 

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator's qualification criteria 

and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be 

operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours must be logged in a 

manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51 (b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator's PICs are 

permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during 

dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience-building flights, all persons not 

essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UAS with 

appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations must be 

conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request 

will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight 

rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 

20. The UAS may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current 

FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport's management is obtained, 

and the operation is conducted in accordance with a 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. 

21. 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. 

22. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre- determined location 

within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents. 

23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the 

operating documents. 

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) 

there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UAS with 

25% battery power remaining. 

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

(COA) prior to conducting any operations under the 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. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements in 

the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude and potential transponder requirements. 

26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identification (N- Number) markings in accordance with 

C.F.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UAS 

must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government 

oversight agency requirements. 

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground 

Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the 

Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. 
11 

29. The UAS must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all 

times. 

30. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than 

the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: 

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UAS 

and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons 

remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such 

protection and are within 500 feet of the UAS, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; 

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such 

vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of 

the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue 

hazard, and; 

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue 

hazard to those persons per§ 91.119(a). 

d. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property with permission from 

the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or 

authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted. 

e. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the 

operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA's 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. 

AAReasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not 

Adversely Affect Safety. L-3 CE submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and 

(b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and 

INSPIRE UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that 

the PIC is able to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and 

emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Considering L-3 CE' proposed area of operations and the operating limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of 

private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements; and the airmanship 

skills necessary to safely operate the UAS, L-3 CE submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a 

commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for L-3 CE's specific proposed 

flight operations. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113 (a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in 

all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11741, 13382, 13999). L-3 CE will not allow 

any PIC to operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, 

by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements or the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS 

training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate UAS in a manner consistent with this 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, 

vehicles and structures. Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 

C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a 

UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition 

to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency 

purposes). 

E.3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not Adversely 

Affect Safety. 
12 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every flight, L-3 

CE will ensure that the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs are in an airworthy condition 

based upon the UAS's compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations 

herein. 

E.4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of 

3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a 

radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UAS to the GCS for active monitoring of the 

flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with L-3 CE's operation of 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs within visual UAS line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of 

safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard 

the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground 

level. 

E.5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not Adversely Affect 

Safety. 

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 

91.151(b) as a result of (l) the technical specifications of 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs; 

(2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. 

Accordingly, L-3 CE will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UA during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a 

maximum duration of 30 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly 

after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

E.6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

In seeking this exemption, L-3 CE submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory 

maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 

91.417(a) & (b) will be met because L-3 CE will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or 

preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating 

documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE Instruction 

Manual). Furthermore, L-3 CE will document and maintain all maintenance records for the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS. Since the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS will be 

inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, L-3 CE will maintain the equivalent level of safety established 

by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(l), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, and INSPIRE User 

Manuals are attached. A summary is presented in the Appendices. Likewise, the exemption sought will not 

adversely affect safety because L-3 CE will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or 

preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating 

documents. Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 

91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the UAS will be performed by trained technicians. 

Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Significantly, previous 

exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & 

(b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the 

UAS are considered. In consideration of L-3 CE' proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and the 

technical aspects of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS, L-3 CE submits that safety will 

not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l) and (a)(2), 

91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). 

E.7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation. 
13 

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 

entitled Special Conditions, L-3 CE requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of 

the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS, which contain such safety standards that the 

Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.15l(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & 

(a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS for the limited purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA 

Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or 

the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to 

operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe 

operation of the UAS in the NAS. Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 

C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS, since the 

airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards, due to the 

novel or unusual design features of the aircraft. Section 21.16, entitled Special Conditions, states the following: If 

the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain adequate or appropriate safety 

standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, 

aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special 

conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards for the aircraft, 

aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in 

the regulations. See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16. Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the 

FAA may prescribe special conditions for L-3 CE intended operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 

and INSPIRE UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level 

of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 

91.7(a), 91.121, 91.15l(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules From Which L-3 CE Seeks 

Exemption: 

The Rules From Which L-3 CE Seeks Exemption: 

L-3 CE seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113 ( a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption L-3 CE Seeks: 

This exemption will permit L-3 CE to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. 

Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support L-3 CE’s Request. 

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which 

directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain U AS may operate safely in the NAS. 

As such, L-3 CE' request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 

C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS 

will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, 

provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification. As discussed in detail above, L-3 

CE will operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a 

hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

Conclusion 

As set forth herein, L-3 CE seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, 

INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA 

Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, 

while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing L-3 CE to safely, efficiently, and economically operate 

the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UASs commercially within the NAS. In accordance with 

the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, L-3 CE 

respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R 
14 

Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & 

(b), and permit L-3 CE to operate the 3DRSOLO, INFINITY6, INFINITY9 and INSPIRE UAS commercially for 

the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. 

L-3 CE trusts this information is adequate for the FAA to grant our requests. If you have any questions or require 

any additional information, please contact Harish Hiriyannaiah, at 513-204-7256, Chris Fearing, at 513-573-6972, or 

the undersigned. 

Respectfully submitted, 

L-3 COMMUNICATIONS 

CINCINNATI ELECTRONICS 

George L. Macomber 

Division Director of Contracts 

513-204-7168 

George.Macomber@L-3Com.com

Appendices: A. 3DR Solo 

 B. Turbo Ace Infinity 6 

 C. Turbo Ace Infinity-9Pro Octocopter 

 D. DJ1 Inspire 1 

Attachments: A. Solo User Manual 

 B. CineWing-6 Manual 

 C. Inspire 1 User Manual en v2.0 1218 
15 

Cincinnati Electronics

Appendix A: 

 3DR Solo 

https://3drobotics.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/v8_11_20_15.pdf 

Estimated flight time up to 25 minutes* 

Default maximum altitude 150 ft. (46 m) above ground level** 

Range .5 mile*** (.8 km) 

Payload capacity 1 lb. (450 g) 

Cruise speed 18 mph (8 m/s) 

Maximum speed 33 mph (15 m/s)**** 

Wind speed limitation 25 mph (11 m/s) 

Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C) 

Height 10” 

Wingspan 18” 

Total Weight 3.3 lb 

* Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style, 

and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level. 

** To adjust maximum altitude, see Section 8.7. 

*** Depending on environmental conditions 

**** This top speed corresponds to Solo when operating in Fly mode. Maximum speeds for 

advanced modes may vary; see Section 8.1 for more information. 

Appendix B: 

 Turbo Ace Infinity 6 

 

Estimated flight time up to 30 minutes* 

Estimated maximum altitude 1000 ft 

Range .5 mile 

Payload capacity 10 lb. 

Cruise speed 22 mph (10 m/s) 

Estimated Maximum speed 45 mph 

Wind speed limitation 22 mph (10 m/s) 

Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C) 

Height 19.2” 

Wingspan 51.75” 

Total weight Not to exceed 25 lb 
16 

Cincinnati Electronics

Appendix C: 

 Turbo Ace Infinity-9Pro Octocopter 

 

Estimated flight time up to 15 minutes* 

Estimated maximum altitude 1000 ft 

Range 1.2 mile 

Maximum Total Weight 46.5 

Payload capacity 20 lb. 

Cruise speed 22 mph (10 m/s) 

Estimated Maximum speed 45 mph 

Wind speed limitation 35 mph 

Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C) 

Height 24” 

Wingspan 66.5” 

Total weight Not to exceed 46.5 lb 

Appendix D: 

 DJ1 Inspire 1 

Estimated flight time up to 15 minutes* 

Estimated maximum altitude 400 ft 

Range 1.2 mile 

Maximum Total Weight 7.5 lb. 

Payload capacity 1 lb. 

Cruise speed 22 mph (10 m/s) 

Estimated Maximum speed 45 mph 

Wind speed limitation 35 mph 

Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C) 

Height 12” 

Wingspan 17” 

Total weight Not to exceed 7.5 lb 
User Manual

TM
3DR Support

Contact 3DR Support for questions and technical help.

online: 3dr.com/support 

email: support@3dr.com 

call: +1 (858) 225-1414 (direct)

 +1 (855) 982-2898 (toll free in the US and Canada)

Support line hours:

Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm PST 

3D Robotics (3DR)

1608 4th Street, Suite 410 

Berkeley, CA 94710

Tel. +1 (858) 225-1414

3dr.com

Solo User Manual V6

© 2015 3D Robotics Inc.

Solo is a trademark of 3D Robotics, Inc. 

GoPro, HERO, the GoPro logo, and the GoPro Be a HERO logo are 

trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc.
Contents 1 Introduction

1

1.1 System Overview1

1.2 Aircraft Overview2

1.3 Controller Overview3

1.4 Operating Parameters4

1.5 Autopilot5

1.6 Propulsion5

1.7 LED Meanings5

2 Setup6

2.1 In the Box6

2.2 Battery6

2.3 Controller8

2.4 Propellers9

2.5 Camera9

2.6 Mobile App 11 3 Safety 15

3.1 Location 15

3.2 Environmental Awareness 15

3.3 Visual Line of Sight 15

3.4 Flight School 15

3.5 Propellers 16

3.6 GPS 16

3.7 Home Position 16

3.8 Altitude Limit 16

3.9 Emergency Procedures 17

3.10 Flight Battery 18

3.11 Controller 18

3.12 Antenna Configuration 18 4 First Flight 19

4.1 Preflight Checklist 19

4.2 Takeoff 19

4.3 Landing 20

4.4 Return to Home 21

4.5 In-Flight Data 22

4.6 Joystick Control 23

4.7 App Interface Overview 26 5 Smart Shots 27

5.1 Selfie 27

5.2 Cable Cam 28

5.3 Orbit 30

5.4 Follow 31 6 Alerts 33

6.1 Preflight Errors 33

6.2 In-Flight Errors 34 7 Advanced Settings 37

7.1 Advanced Flight Modes 37

7.2 Enabling Advanced Flight Modes 38

7.3 Accessing Advanced Flight Modes 38

7.4 Home Position Safety 38

7.5 Performance Adjustment 39

7.6 Units 39

7.7 Maximum Altitude Adjustment 39
8 Support 40 9 Maintenance 40

9.1 Controller Battery Replacement 40

9.2 Calibrations 41

9.3 Pairing the Controller 42

9.4 Legs 43

9.5 Battery Tray 46

9.6 Motors 47

9.7 Factory Reset 49

10 Appendix 51

10.1 Specifications 51

10.2 Warranty 52

10.3 Regulatory Compliance 52
Figures

Figure 1.1.3.1: Solo System Context Diagram 1

Figure 1.2.4.1: Solo Overview 2

Figure 1.3.10.1: Controller Overview 4

Figure 1.4.10.1: Solo Operating Parameters 4

Figure 1.6.10.1: Solo Motor Order 5

Figure 2.1.10.1: Solo Parts 6

Figure 2.2.1.1: Solo Battery Charging 7

Figure 2.2.2.1: Powering Solo 7

Figure 2.3.1.1: Controller Charging 8

Figure 2.3.2.1: Power On Controller 8

Figure 2.4.1.1: Attach Propellers 9

Figure 2.5.1.1: Attach Camera 10

Figure 2.5.2.1: Camera Configuration Process 10

Figure 2.6.2.1: Connect to Solo Link 11

Figure 2.6.3.1: App - Settings Menu 11

Figure 2.6.3.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings 12

Figure 2.6.4.1: Controller Preflight Prompt 12

Figure 2.6.4.2: App - Software Update 12

Figure 2.6.4.3: App - Connecting Instructions 12

Figure 2.6.4.4: App - Instructions List 13

Figure 2.6.4.5: App - Download Update 13

Figure 2.6.4.6: App - Start Update 13

Figure 2.6.4.7: Controller - Updating 13

Figure 2.6.4.8: App - Update Disconnection Conf. 13

Figure 2.6.4.9: Controller Update Complete 14

Figure 2.6.4.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo 14

Figure 2.6.4.11: App - Update Success 14

Figure 2.6.5.1: App - Viewing Video 14

Figure 3.4.5.1: App Flight School 15

Figure 3.9.5.1: Controller - Motor Shutoff 17

Figure 3.12.5.1: Controller Antenna Orientation 18

Figure 4.2.1.1: Controller - Start Motors Prompt 19

Figure 4.2.2.1: Controller - Takeoff Prompts 20

Figure 4.3.2.1: Controller - User-Initiated Landing 20

Figure 4.4.2.1: Return to Home Button 21

Figure 4.4.2.2: RTH Below 21

Figure 4.4.2.3: RTH Above 21

Figure 4.5.2.1: Controller - In-Flight Data 22

Figure 4.6.2.1: Controller Left Joystick 23

Figure 4.6.2.2: Throttle Joystick Behaviors 23

Figure 4.6.2.3: Yaw Joystick Behavior 24

Figure 4.6.2.4: Controller Right Joystick Controls 24

Figure 4.6.2.5: Pitch Joystick Controls 25

Figure 4.6.2.6: Roll Joystick Controls 25

Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Main Interface 26

Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Shot List 26

Figure 5.1.2.1: Selfie Path and Settings 27

Figure 5.1.1.1: App - Selfie Activation 27

Figure 5.1.2.1: App - Selfie Control 28

Figure 5.1.2.2: Controller - Selfie Control 28

Figure 5.1.3.1: App - Selfie Settings 28

Figure 5.2.1.1: App - Cable Cam Setup 29

Figure 5.2.2.1: App - Cable Cam Controls 29

Figure 5.2.2.2: Controller - Cable Cam Controls 29

Figure 5.2.3.1: App - Cable Cam Settings 29

Figure 5.3.1.1: App - Orbit Setup 30

Figure 5.3.2.1: App - Orbit Controls 30

Figure 5.3.2.2: Orbit Controls 31

Figure 5.3.3.1: App - Orbit Settings 31

Figure 5.4.1.1: App - Follow Setup 31

Figure 5.4.2.1: Follow Controls 32

Figure 5.4.3.1: App - Follow Settings 32

Figure 6.1.1.1: Controller - Calibration Progress Alerts 33

Figure 6.1.1.2: Controller - Uneven Surface Alert 33

Figure 6.1.1.3: Controller - Re-Calibration Alerts 33

Figure 6.1.1.4: Controller - Calibration Error Alert 34

Figure 6.1.2.1: Controller - Service Alerts 34

Figure 6.2.1.1: Controller - Altitude Limit Alert 34

Figure 6.2.2.1: Controller - App Connection Alerts 35

Figure 6.2.3.1: Controller - Cont. Disconnected Alert 35

Figure 6.2.3.2: Controller - Controller Signal Alerts 35

Figure 6.2.4.1: Controller - GPS Signal Alerts 36

Figure 6.2.5.1: Controller - Low Battery Alerts 36

Figure 6.2.5.2: Controller - Critical Battery Alert 36

Figure 6.2.6.1: Controller - Controller Battery Alerts 36

Figure 7.2.5.1: App - Advanced Settings 38

Figure 7.3.5.1: App - A and B Presets 38

Figure 7.5.5.1: App - Performance Sliders 39

Figure 7.6.5.1: App - Change Units 39

Figure 7.7.5.1: App - Altitude Limit 39

Figure 8.7.5.1: App - Submit Trouble Ticket 40

Figure 9.1.5.1: Controller Battery Installation 40

Figure 9.2.1.1: App - Compass Calibration Setup 41

Figure 9.2.1.2: App - Compass Calibration Procedure 41

Figure 9.2.2.1: App - Level Calibration 41

Figure 9.3.2.1: Pair Button 42

Figure 9.3.2.2: Detected Solo 42

Figure 9.3.2.3: Solo Paired 42

Figure 9.4.2.1: Leg Types 43

Figure 9.4.1.1: Standard Leg Replacement Process 43

Figure 9.4.2.1: Detaching the Antenna from the Leg 44

Figure 9.4.2.2: Attaching New Leg with Exist. Antenna 44

Figure 9.4.2.3: Attaching Existing Antenna to New Leg 44

Figure 9.4.3.1: Compass Connector on Mainboard 45

Figure 9.4.3.2: Insert New Leg with Compass 45

Figure 9.5.1.1: GPS Cover Removal 46

Figure 9.5.2.1: Battery Tray Removal 46

Figure 9.5.2.2: Battery Tray Detachment 46

Figure 9.6.2.1: LED Cover Removal 47

Figure 9.6.2.2: Motor Pod Removal 47

Figure 9.6.2.3: Motor Pod Disconnection 48

Figure 9.6.2.4: Motor Pod Connection 48

Figure 9.6.2.5: Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment 48

Figure 9.7.2.1: Pair Button 49

Figure 9.7.2.2: Strobing Pairing Light 49

Figure 9.7.2.3: Controller Reset 49

Figure 9.7.2.4: Controller Update 50
1

1 Introduction

We designed Solo to be the perfect aerial-video tool. It’s powerful, simple and reliable with intuitive Smart Shots

inspired by our favorite cinema pilots. With Solo, you don’t need a professional camera crew, you can get the

perfect shot every time. We’re excited to share our passion with you and help you see your world from a new

perspective. Join us in capturing the next evolution of creative videography

1.1 System Overview

The Solo system includes Solo, the Controller, and the Solo App. As the operator, you interact with the controller

and app on the ground, and the controller communicates with Solo during flight.

1.1.1 Solo

Solo is a small unmanned aerial vehicle powered by four motors and four propellers. Solo’s onboard computers

control navigation, attitude, and communications in flight while sending real-time telemetry and video output and

receiving control inputs over the 3DR Link secure Wi-Fi network. Solo is optimized for capturing aerial video using a

GoPro® HERO camera.

1.1.2 Controller

The controller provides control mechanisms and displays in-flight data on a full-color screen. Using twin longrange

antennas, the controller acts as the central hub for all communication on the 3DR Link network, receiving all

communications from Solo and the app, forwarding telemetry outputs to the app, and managing the transmission of

all control inputs to Solo.

1.1.3 App

The Solo App outputs a live video stream from an onboard GoPro® camera to an Android or iOS device. The App

allows you to view the live video with overlaid telemetry and access a simplified graphic interface for controlling

Solo’s advanced functions. The App also connects to the 3DR Link network to receive video and telemetry outputs

and send control inputs.

Figure 1.1.3.1: Solo System Context Diagram

Video output

Telemetry output

Control input

Operator

3DR Solo

Controller

3DR Solo

3DR Solo

App

Ground Air

3DR Link 

Secure WiFi 

Network
2

1.2 Aircraft Overview

1.2.1 Smart Battery

The battery connects to Solo’s battery bay. Solo’s power button is located on the battery; Solo can only be powered

when the battery is connected. 

1.2.2 Motors and Propellers

Solo’s arms are labeled one through four on the ends of the arms. Motors on arms #1 and #2 spin counterclockwise

and use clockwise-tightening propellers with silver tops. Motors on arms #3 and #4 spin clockwise and use

counterclockwise-tightening propellers with black tops. 

1.2.3 Orientation LEDs

Each arm contains an LED for ground-to-air directional awareness; when armed for flight, the two front arms (#1 and

#3) display white, and the two rear arms (#2 and #4) display red. This LED scheme mimics the headlight and taillight

style of a car.

1.2.4 Fixed Camera Mount and HDMI Cable

Solo includes a GoPro® The Frame fixed mount to mount a GoPro® HERO camera. The HDMI cable connects to 

the GoPro® to output video during flight.

Figure 1.2.4.1: Solo Overview

Silver-top propeller

Power button

Battery

Rear orientation LEDs

Black-top propeller

Motor

Arm numbering

Front orientation LEDs

Fixed camera mount

HDMI cable

Height: 10.2”

Motor-to-motor: 18.1”

Weight (no camera): 3.3 lbs.
3

1.3 Controller Overview

1.3.1 Mobile-Device Holder

Mount an Android or iOS device to run the Solo App and effortlessly integrate the App into the controller’s

operational flow. A user-supplied smartphone or tablet is required to initialize Solo and use Smart Shots.

1.3.2 Joysticks

The controller’s left and right joysticks provide direct manual control of Solo and physical control mechanisms for

use with Smart Shots. 

1.3.3 Screen

The controller’s full-color screen provides live in-flight data and prompts for certain Solo functions.

1.3.4 Power Button

Press the power button once to check the controller’s battery level. Hold the power button until you see the 

controller startup screen to power on the controller.

1.3.5 Fly Button

The Fly button lets you control Solo’s main flight functions: starting motors, takeoff, land, and activating GPS flight.

1.3.6 Return Home

The Return Home button allows you to end your flight automatically at any point by returning Solo to its original

launch point and landing.

1.3.7 Pause Button

The Pause button is Solo’s emergency air brake. Press Pause to stop Solo and hover in place at any time.

1.3.8 Option Buttons

The A and B buttons change functionality based on where you are in the operational flow. The screen will show the

currently assigned functions of A and B at all times. You can program A and B to specific functions using the app.

By default, the A button is assigned to Cable Cam and the B button is assigned to Orbit.

1.3.9 Antennas

The controller’s long-range dipole antennas communicate with Solo during flight. See Section 3.12 for proper 

antenna configuration.

1.3.10 Gimbal Controls

The paddle, buttons, and dial on the top of the controller are used to control the Solo Gimbal. They can also be used 

in some Smart Shots.
4

Figure 1.3.10.1: Controller Overview

1.4 Operating Parameters

The following operating parameters apply to Solo. Always operate Solo within these parameters. Solo’s performance

and behaviors may vary significantly conditions violate the parameters listed below.

Figure 1.4.10.1: Solo Operating Parameters

*Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style, 

and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level.

**See Section 7.7 to adjust maximum altitude.

***Depending on environmental conditions

 ****This top speed corresponds to Solo when operating in Fly mode. Maximum speeds for advanced 

modes may vary, see Section 7.1 for more information.\

Estimated flight time up to 25 minutes*

Default maximum altitude 150 ft. (46 m) above ground level**

Range .5 miles*** (.8 km)

Payload capacity 1 lb. (450 g)

Cruise speed 18 mph (8 m/s)

Maximum speed 33 mph (15 m/s)****

Wind speed limitation 25 mph (11 m/s)

Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C)

Antennas

Mobile-device holder

Gimbal controls

Joysticks

Screen

Pause

Return home

Fly

Power

Options
5

1.5 Autopilot

Solo uses a Pixhawk 2 autopilot running ArduPilot Copter software. ArduPilot is open-source flight control based on

the MAVlink communication protocol. Pixhawk 2 runs an ARM Cortex-M4 STM32F427 processor with 2 MB of flash

memory and 256 KB of RAM. Combined with an array of CAN, I2C, SPI, PWM, and UART interfaces, Pixhawk 2

uses a suite of onboard sensors to calculate Solo’s orientation and motion in flight. This data is input into ArduPilot’s

inertial navigation and position estimation algorithms and combined with control inputs to send commands to Solo’s

propulsion system.

1.6 Propulsion

Solo uses four brushless 880 Kv motors and four self-tightening propellers for propulsion. For control and

aerodynamic efficiency, two motors spin clockwise and two motors spin counterclockwise. Navigation in the air is

achieved by mixing propulsion of the four motors to actuate flight control along the roll, pitch, and yaw axes.

Each of the four motors is numbered by the marking on the arm. These numbers correspond to the autopilot

calculations for these commands and are used for indicating motor replacement procedures. Each motor is

controlled by an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) that regulates the rotation of the motors to achieve the speed

commanded by the autopilot.

Figure 1.6.10.1: Solo Motor Order

1.7 LED Meanings

Solo’s four LEDs indicate its status during startup and in flight.

• Solid white (front) and red (back): Ready to fly, standard flight configuration

• Pulsing white (front) and red (back): Solo is flying under autopilot control

• Flashing red alternating front and back: Controller signal lost

• Flashing rainbow: Update in progress

• Solid green, then turning off one-by-one: Startup successful

• Solid green without turning off automatically: Startup unsuccessful, please restart Solo

03 01

02 04
6

2 Setup

This sections covers everything you need to set up Solo out of the box.

2.1 In the Box

Solo includes the Solo Vehicle, the Solo Controller, propellers (four plus two spares), the Solo Smart Battery, the

Solo Smart Battery charger, and a charger for the Solo Controller. 

Figure 2.1.10.1: Solo Parts

2.2 Battery

Solo is powered by the rechargeable Solo Smart Battery that provides up to 25 minutes of flight time per full charge.

(Keep in mind that flight time depends on payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style and

pilot skill, so the actual flight time may vary.) As a lithium polymer battery, the Solo Smart Battery requires specific

handling practices to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents. For more information about battery safety, see

Section 3.10.

2.2.1 Charging

The level of the battery charge is indicated by the lights below the power button. Press the power button once to

display the current power level. The Solo Smart Battery ships with approximately 50% charge, so charge fully before

your first flight for maximum flight time.

Remove the battery from Solo before charging by holding the release button and sliding the battery towards the

back of Solo. Charge the battery using the designated Solo charger only; using a different charger can damage the

battery or cause a fire.

To charge the battery, connect the Solo charger to the battery and a wall outlet. While charging, the indicator lights

pulse at the current level. There is an additional indicator on the battery charger that turns from red to green when

the battery is fully charged. The battery takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge to 100%.

Storing the Solo Smart Battery at an excessively depleted charge (7 percent and under) for an extended period of

time may result in a shortened battery life or permanent damage to the battery. The optimal storage charge for the

Solo Smart Battery is 50%. 

Solo Three silver-top props

& three black-top props

Controller

Solo charger

Controller charger
7

Figure 2.2.1.1: Solo Battery Charging

2.2.2 Powering

To power Solo, insert the battery into Solo’s battery bay and slide the battery forward until it clicks into place. Press

and hold the battery power button to turn on Solo. When Solo powers on, the battery will display an LED animation

and you will hear the startup tone. Only power Solo using the designated 3DR Solo Smart Battery; using a different

battery can permanently damage Solo.

Figure 2.2.2.1: Powering Solo

Charge indicator

Charge indicator

Make sure Solo is level before powering on and keep Solo still during 

startup and while the sensors initialize. Moving Solo during this 

process causes the sensors to calibrate incorrectly and can create a 

preflight error or affect in-flight performance.

1 Slide to connect

2 Hold to power
8

2.3 Controller

The Solo controller includes a pre-installed rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) battery.

2.3.1 Charging

Charge the controller using the designated controller charger only; using a different charger can damage the

controller or cause a fire.

To charge the controller, connect the controller charger to the barrel jack on the side of the controller and to a

wall outlet. To check the battery level of the controller, press the power button. A fully charged controller lasts for

approximately 6 hours. Always check the controller’s battery level before you fly, and recharge when prompted by

the controller. The controller takes approximately 3 hours to charge to 100%

Figure 2.3.1.1: Controller Charging

2.3.2 Powering

To power on the controller, press and hold the controller power button until you see the startup screen.

Figure 2.3.2.1: Power On Controller
9

2.4 Propellers

Solo uses two types of self-tightening propellers, indicated by the color of the circle at the center of the propeller. 

2.4.1 Attaching

Attach the propellers with silver tops to the motors with a silver dot on the top of the motor shaft, and attach the

black-top propellers to the motors with black dots. Make sure to remove the paper labels from the motors before

attaching the propellers.

Silver-top propellers tighten clockwise; black-top propellers tighten counterclockwise. Check the lock and unlock

icons on each propeller to see the correct directions for tightening and removing.

Figure 2.4.1.1: Attach Propellers

2.5 Camera

Solo includes a fixed GoPro® The FrameTM mount for your GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4.

2.5.1 Attaching

To attach the camera to the GoPro® The FrameTM fixed mount, insert your GoPro® upside down and connect the 

Solo HDMI cable to the camera.

remove motor labels remove motor labels
10

Figure 2.5.1.1: Attach Camera

2.5.2 Settings

For best results, adjust the camera settings for inverted orientation and medium field of view. (Setting the field of 

view to medium ensures that you won’t see the propellers in the frame.) 

Figure 2.5.2.1: Camera Configuration Process

Make sure that the Wi-Fi on your GoPro® is turned OFF. It can interfere 

with Solo’s communication signals and cause unexpected behavior.

GoPro® The FrameTM

Your GoPro®

HERO 3, 3+ or 4 Mount your GoPro®

upside down.

Connect the HDMI 

cable.

Set the GoPro® HERO3 

to inverted orientation:

Enable GoPro® HERO4

auto-orientation:

Set the GoPro® to 

medium field of view:

GoPro®

Settings

Camera 

Orientation

GoPro®

Settings

SETUP ORIENTATION

OFF

:OFF

:UP

:VIDEO

ORIENTATION

OFF

:OFF

:AUTO

:VIDEO

EXIT

EXIT

RESET CAM

SETUP ORIENTATION

OFF

:OFF

:UP

:VIDEO

ORIENTATION

OFF

:OFF

:AUTO

:VIDEO

EXIT

EXIT

RESET CAM
11

2.6 Mobile App

The Solo App provides a streaming video link to a mobile device and a simple graphic interface for interacting with

Smart Shots and other advanced Solo features.

2.6.1 Install

Visit 3dr.com/soloapp or download “3DR Solo” from the App Store or Google Play Store. 3DR Solo works with iOS 

8.0 or later and Android 4.3 or later. For Android, you must also install the “3DR Services” app to your device.

2.6.2 Connect to Solo

To connect the app to Solo’s 3DR Link Wi-Fi network, access the Wi-Fi settings on the mobile device and select 

Solo_Link-####. Enter the temporary password “sololink”. Once connected, return to the app to continue. Both Solo 

and the controller must be powered on to connect to the App.

Figure 2.6.2.1: Connect to Solo Link

2.6.3 Change SoloLink Password

Once connected to Solo Wi-Fi, change your password to secure your SoloLink network. Select the Settings menu 

from the top-left drop-down, and choose Solo to access the options for your drone.

Figure 2.6.3.1: App - Settings Menu

In the Solo menu, select Wi-Fi Settings, and set a new password. The password should be between 8 and 32 

characters with no spaces. Select Apply to enable your changes. If you forget your SoloLink password, perform the 

factory reset procedure in Section 9.7 to reset the password to the temporary password (sololink).

Settings

Airplane Mode

WI-FI

Bluetooth

Cellular

Solo_Link-####

On

Notifications

Control Center

Do Not Disturb

LTE 7:34 PM

General

Sounds

Wallpapers & Brightness

Privacy
12

Figure 2.6.3.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings

2.6.4 Update

Before your first flight, use the App to perform the required first-flight update of Solo and the Controller. The

Controller will prompt you for the update with the preflight update alert. Ensure that both the Controller and Solo

are powered, the controller has at least 50% battery remaining, and the app is connected to Solo Wi-Fi. The total

update process can take up to 10 minutes.

Figure 2.6.4.1: Controller Preflight Update Prompt

To start the update, open the Settings menu in the App, and select Software Update. 

Figure 2.6.4.2: App - Software Update

Because your mobile device has never connected to this Solo before, you will need to link your device with Solo

Wi-Fi (SoloLink). Select Connect Instructions for steps on how to connect.

Figure 2.6.4.3: App - Connecting Instructions

ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C

Update Requirement Screen

Controller updated

Controller update in progress screen

Is displayed after user initiates update in app.

Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback.

Tells the user that controller update was successful.

HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, 

to communicate update completion.

A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)

Controller updating

Update will take about 5 minutes

Please ensure charger is connected

Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi 

Press to continue

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen

Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to 

standard red and white when this screen is displayed

preflight update

Required before first flight!

Use 3DR Solo App to update

Waiting for Solo

Persists until Solo reconnects

or

Artoo auto-shutdown

Press when LEDs are green

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

Prompt stays on screen 

Post Unlock Behavior

After system is unlocke

versions that were last 

(Even if they have failed 

Update unsuccessful (

Update Timeout

If update does not 

“update-unsucces

Update failure

If update fails, disp

screen

update 

Please us

th

waiting for Solo

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Hold FLY to start motors
13

Then follow these instructions to connect to Solo W-Fi.

Figure 2.6.4.4: App - Instructions List 

Once connected, return to the App and you will be notified of the current version you are about to update to. Select

Download Update to continue. For this step you will need an internet connection, either cellular data or Wi-Fi. If you

opt to use Wi-Fi, you’ll need switch from SoloLink to your Wi-Fi network.

Figure 2.6.4.5: App - Download Update

When the app detects an active connection with the controller, it will prompt you to begin the update. (Solo and the 

controller must be powered on to connect to Solo Wi-Fi.) Select Begin to start the update.

Figure 2.6.4.6: App - Start Update

While the update is in progress, the controller will show the controller updating display. The controller will complete 

a full restart as part of the update process, which can take up to 5 minutes.

Figure 2.6.4.7: Controller - Updating

Because the controller must restart as part of the update process, your device will lose its connection to Solo Wi-Fi. 

When you see the display below, select Next to continue. 

Figure 2.6.4.8: App - Update Disconnection Confirmation

ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C

Update Requirement Screen

Controller updated

Controller update in progress screen

Is displayed after user initiates update in app.

Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback.

Tells the user that controller update was successful.

HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, 

to communicate update completion.

A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)

Controller updating

Update will take about 5 minutes

Please ensure charger is connected

Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi 

Press to continue

preflight update

Required before first flight!

Use 3DR Solo App to update

Waiting for Solo

Persists until Solo reconnects

or

Artoo auto-shutdown

Press when LEDs are green

Upd

If up

Upd

Update Timeout

If update does not comple

“update-unsuccessful” scr

Update failure

If update fails, display “upd

screen

waiting for Solo
14

The controller will restart and display a green checkmark to indicate that the controller was updated successfully. 

When you see the green checkmark on the controller, re-connect to Solo Wi-Fi in the app and press A on the 

controller to continue the update. 

Figure 2.6.4.9: Controller Update Complete Displays

After pressing A, Solo will restart to complete the update. The controller will display waiting for Solo while Solo 

restarts.

Figure 2.6.4.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo

When the update is complete, Solo’s LEDs will turn green, the controller will return to the standard takeoff screen, 

and the app will show that the software is up to date. After displaying green, Solo’s LEDs will return to the standard 

white-and-red pattern. If you do not see white-and-red LEDs after a few minutes following the update, restart Solo.

Figure 2.6.4.11: App - Update Success

2.6.5 View Video

After the update is complete, select Fly Solo to view video in the app. Solo, the controller, and the GoPro® must 

be powered to view video. Verify that you can view video before your first flight. If the video is inverted, see section 

2.5.2.

Figure 2.6.5.1: App - Viewing Video

Controller updated

Controller update in progress screen

Is displayed after user initiates update in app.

Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback.

Tells the user that controller update was successful.

HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, 

to communicate update completion.

A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)

Controller updating

Update will take about 5 minutes

Please ensure charger is connected

Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi 

Press to continue

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen

Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to 

standard red and white when this screen is displayed

Required before first flight!

Use 3DR Solo App to update

Waiting for Solo

Persists until Solo reconnects

or

Artoo auto-shutdown

Press when LEDs are green

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

waiting for Solo

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Hold FLY to start motors

Update Requirement Screen

Controller updated

Controller update in progress screen

Is displayed after user initiates update in app.

Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback.

Tells the user that controller update was successful.

HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, 

to communicate update completion.

A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)

Controller updating

Update will take about 5 minutes

Please ensure charger is connected

Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi 

Press to continue

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen

Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to 

standard red and white when this screen is displayed

preflight update

Required before first flight!

Use 3DR Solo App to update

Waiting for Solo

Persists until Solo reconnects

or

Artoo auto-shutdown

Press when LEDs are green

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

Prompt stays on screen until upda

Post Unlock Behavior

After system is unlocked, user shou

versions that were last successfully 

(Even if they have failed in their mo

Update unsuccessful (Artoo and 

Update 

If upda

Update

Update Timeout

If update does not complete 

“update-unsuccessful” screen 

Update failure

If update fails, display “update 

screen

update uns

Please use 3DR S

the update 

waiting for Solo

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Hold FLY to start motors
15

3 Safety

The following best practices will help ensure safe, successful flights and help reduce the risk of accident and serious 

injury. Always fly under adult supervision and with your full attention at all times. Do not fly under the influence of 

drugs or alcohol or when your ability to operate Solo safely is impaired. Use your common sense to avoid unsafe 

situations and always operate Solo responsibly.

3.1 Location

Don’t fly Solo indoors. Always fly outside in clear, open areas at a safe distance from yourself, other people, power 

lines, animals, vehicles, trees, and buildings. When flying in areas with potential hazards, maintain 100 feet (30 m) 

from any people, vehicles, or structures. As the operator, you are responsible for navigating Solo to avoid obstacles, 

including during Smart Shots. 

Don’t fly within 5 miles of an airport or within any airspace restricted by your local, state, or national airspace 

authority. As the operator, you are responsible for knowing and understanding the regulations that govern small 

unmanned aircraft like Solo in your jurisdiction.

3.2 Environmental Awareness

Don’t fly Solo in extreme weather conditions such as rain, high winds, snow, or fog. Extreme weather conditions can 

permanently damage Solo or cause instability in flight.

Before flying, determine the boundaries of the safe flying area at your location. Be aware of any risks, including 

bodies of water, structures, trees, power lines, etc, and designate a few areas where you can land Solo in case of 

an unsafe situation. Throughout your flight, be prepared to recover Solo manually or use an emergency procedure if 

Solo flies outside the safe flying area. 

3.3 Visual Line of Sight

Always fly Solo within your visual line of sight. Don’t let Solo get so far away from you that you cannot see its 

orientation or so that any physical obstructions block your view of Solo.

3.4 Flight School

If you’re new to flying, review the video tutorials in the Flight School area of the app before your first flight. Flight 

School provides useful tips for learning to operate Solo safely and correctly.

Figure 3.4.5.1: App Flight School

Read and understand these important safety instructions before your 

first flight to help reduce the risk of accident and serious injury.

Physical obstructions can also block communication signals with the controller, 

causing Solo to attempt to Return Home along an obstructed path
16

3.5 Propellers

To avoid hazardous contact with Solo’s high-speed propellers, always power off Solo before handling Solo or 

the propellers. When prompted to start motors before takeoff, always ensure that the propellers are clear of any 

obstructions and at least 20 feet away from any people, animals, or property before activating. Do not touch moving 

propellers or approach Solo while the propellers are spinning.

After landing or returning home, Solo will automatically detect the landing and stop the motors. Do not approach 

Solo until the propellers stop spinning, and always power off Solo before picking it up.

3.6 GPS

Solo requires an active GPS signal for flight. After powering on, Solo can take up to 5 minutes to acquire a strong 

GPS lock. Always choose a flying location with a clear view of the sky to improve GPS signal strength. The following 

requirements define a GPS lock:

• Reported horizontal position accuracy < 16 ft. (5 m)

• Reported speed accuracy < 2 mph (1 m/s)

• Number of satellites ≥ 6

• Difference between GPS and inertial navigation vertical velocity < 2 mph (1 m/s)

If satellite coverage drops beneath a reliable threshold during flight, Solo will automatically switch to FLY:Manual 

mode. This mode does not provide the flight stabilizing GPS functionality, but it still allows you to retain control of 

Solo. 

3.7 Home Position

Solo’s home position is the latitude and longitude coordinates of the launch point and is used by the autopilot as

the end point of a return-home command. The autopilot saves the home position location to where the motors are

started, assuming GPS lock has been achieved. If Solo has taken off without GPS lock and then achieves GPS lock

mid-flight, the home position will be set to wherever GPS lock was acquired. The location of the home position

depends on GPS signal strength and is usually within 1 to 2 meters of accuracy. Always take off from an open

location with a clear path for Solo to return home safely. For home position safety in advanced mode, see Section

7.4.

3.8 Altitude Limit

Always fly at appropriate altitudes for your flying location and local regulations. Solo cannot avoid obstacles on its

own, so always select altitudes that avoid any obstacles, such as trees, buildings, and power lines.

Solo includes a safety fence enabled by default at 150 ft. (46 m). If Solo reaches the altitude limit, Solo will stop

ascending and limit throttle input to stay below the altitude limit. To adjust the altitude limit, see Section 7.7. FAA

regulations mandate a maximum altitude of 400 ft. to avoid potential conflicts with manned aircraft and represents a

safe line-of-sight altitude. 

Spinning propellers can cause serious injury. Never touch moving 

propellers or place any objects in the way of the propeller arcs while 

Solo is powered.

400 ft 400 ft
17

3.9 Emergency Procedures

If you experience a problem in flight, use one of the following emergency procedures to stop Solo, end your flight, or 

shut off the motors.

3.9.1 Pause

The controller’s Pause button allows you to stop Solo mid-air. Solo will hover at the paused location until given 

another command. Use the Pause button to stop Solo from hitting an obstacle or to re-orient Solo for navigation. 

Press Pause during Return Home or Land to pause Solo and stop the landing. Pause is available only with GPS 

lock.

3.9.2 Regain Manual Control 

Keep the controller easily accessible at all times during flight, including during Smart Shots, and be prepared to 

regain manual control at any time. To return to standard flight during Smart Shots, Return Home, or Land, press the 

Fly button.

3.9.3 Return Home

If Solo acquired GPS lock prior to takeoff, press the controller’s Home button to return Solo to the launch point 

and land. Use return home after receiving a low battery notification or to end your flight easily. Solo will not avoid 

obstacles while returning home; always verify that the return path is clear before activating Return Home.

3.9.4 Land

To land Solo at its current position, press and hold the Fly button. Lift the throttle at any time to exit the landing 

procedure. If Solo does not have GPS lock, there will be no automatic positioning as Solo descends, and drifting 

may occur depending on environmental conditions.

3.9.5 Motor Shutoff

In the event that Solo’s motors do not stop after landing or for an emergency in-flight kill switch, Solo includes 

an emergency motor shutoff procedure. To shut off the motors at any time, either in flight or on the ground, hold 

the A, B, and Pause buttons at the same time. An initial screen will appear on the controller to confirm the shutoff 

command; continue to hold A, B, and Pause buttons to activate motor shutoff. Use the emergency motor shutoff 

only as a last resort.

Figure 3.9.5.1: Controller - Motor Shutoff

KILL SWITCH UI - EMERGENCY MOTOR SHUTOFF

Progress bar completes

After 3000 millisecond hold

Shuto Banner

Banner shows shuto taking place

PERSISTENT: banner persists until user:

-rearms with Fly button 

Kill Switch Feedback

If users holds AB + Pause in ight

notication is displayed

User holds AB + Pause to shut o motors

Spot lock

Hold + 

 to shut off motors

FLY 12

Spot lock

Hold + 

 to shut off motors

FLY 12

5FT

HOME

30

FLIGHT BATTERY

LAND 12

KILL SWITCH UI - EMERGENCY MOTOR SHUTOFF

Progress bar completes

After 3000 millisecond hold

Shuto Banner

Banner shows shuto taking place

PERSISTENT: banner persists until user:

-rearms with Fly button 

-restarts vehicle

Kill Switch Feedback

If users holds AB + Pause in ight

notication is displayed

User holds AB + Pause to shut o motors

Spot lock

Hold + 

 to shut off motors

FLY 12

Spot lock

Hold + 

 to shut off motors

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

5FT

0FT

HOME

30%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

LAND 12

MOTOR SHUTOFF ACTIVATED
18

3.10 Flight Battery

Use caution when handling the Solo Smart Battery; lithium polymer batteries can cause a fire if handled incorrectly. 

Never alter, puncture, throw, bend, or impact the battery. Keep the battery away from liquids, fire, microwaves, and 

other hazardous or combustible materials. Don’t expose the battery to extreme temperatures. If the battery is hot to 

the touch, wait for it to cool before using or charging. 

Inspect the battery before and after each flight. It is possible for the battery to be damaged in shipping, use or 

charging. If you notice any abnormal features such as damage to the exterior shell, swelling, deformation of the 

battery, abnormal smell, leakage, or other unexpected behavior, do not use the battery! These can be signs of 

serious damage that can cause the battery to catch fire. To prevent a hazard in case of fire or explosion, disconnect 

the battery, and place the battery in a safe area outside of any buildings or vehicles and away from flammable 

materials. Do not dispose of the battery in the trash; dispose of the battery at local battery recycling center as soon 

as possible. In the US and Canada, visit call2recycle.org to find a location.

For long term storage, store the battery in an 64° F to 82° F environment, between 45-85% relative humidity 

and with 50% charge. Always make sure to store the battery in a place where it won’t be exposed to extreme 

temperatures or direct sunlight. 

3.11 Controller

The controller’s rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) battery is housed inside the controller, accessible by the battery 

door on the back of the controller. The controller battery is pre-attached to the controller, and shouldn’t be 

disconnected unless:

• You plan to store the controller for over three months without using it. In this case, disconnect the battery 

from the controller and leave the battery inside the controller to store it.

• You need to replace or upgrade the controller battery. Upgraded controller batteries with double the 

capacity are available from store.3dr.com or an authorized retailer. In the case where you need to store the 

extra controller battery, store it in location where it will not come into contact with metal objects or other 

batteries. If the battery’s connector comes into contact with a metal object, it can short circuit the battery and 

cause a fire.

Keep the controller away from liquids, fire, microwaves, and other hazardous or combustible materials. Don’t 

expose the controller to extreme temperatures. If the controller is hot to the touch, wait for it to cool before using 

or charging. Perform periodic visual inspections of the controller battery to check for any damage, and handle the 

controller battery using the same safety precautions as the flight battery.

3.12 Antenna Configuration 

For the strongest connection to Solo, position the antennas down and away from the controller so they are 

approximately perpendicular with Solo in flight, and tilt each antenna out and away from one another at a 20° angle. 

Figure 3.12.5.1: Controller Antenna Orientation

20°
19

4 First Flight

This section covers basic Solo flight procedures, including takeoff, landing, and manual control.

4.1 Preflight Checklist

Before flying, check the following conditions.

4.1.1 Location

» Your current location and environmental conditions are suitable for flight. (Section 3.1)

» Solo is on a level surface at a clear launch point a sufficient distance from yourself and others. (Section 3.1)

4.1.2 Components

» The propellers are correctly attached. (Section 2.4)

» The propellers can spin smoothly and without obstruction when turned.

» No components on Solo appear loose or damaged.

»

4.1.3 Power

» The controller is powered on with at least 50% charge. (Section 2.3)

» Solo is powered on with a fully charged battery. (Section 2.2)

4.1.4 Video (Optional)

» The Solo app is connected to Solo and streaming video. (Section 2.6)

» The GoPro® is recording.

4.2 Takeoff

The takeoff process has two steps: start motors then take off. Always place Solo at a clear launch point for takeoff, 

at least 20 feet away from you, other people, and structures.

4.2.1 Activating Motors

When Solo is ready to fly, the controller will prompt you to hold the Fly button to start Solo’s motors. Hold Fly until 

the propellers spin. Solo is now active, ready for takeoff, and needs to be treated with appropriate caution to avoid 

safety hazards. Press the Pause button anytime Solo is on the ground with the motors spinning to stop the motors.

Figure 4.2.1.1: Controller - Start Motors Prompt

Flying close to obstacles like buildings and trees can reduce GPS 

accuracy and may result in unexpected flight behavior.

MOTOR START & TAKEOFF V4

Fly button safety sequence

Progress bar feedback while user holds

down “Fly” button.

Motors o

Landing screen after startup, before motors

are turned on.

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Hold FLY to start motors

FLY 12

Hold FLY to start motors
20

4.2.2 Initiating Takeoff

Hold Fly again to initiate takeoff. Solo will rise to 10 feet (3 m) and hover until receiving further control inputs.

Figure 4.2.2.1: Controller - Takeoff Prompts

4.3 Landing

Hold the Fly button to land Solo at its current location.

Figure 4.3.2.1: Controller - User-Initiated Landing

After landing, the propellers will stop spinning automatically; wait until the propellers stop spinning before 

approaching Solo. If the propellers do not stop, press the controller’s Pause button or use the emergency shutoff 

option described in Section 3.9.5.

Spinning propellers can cause serious injury! Always make sure 

Solo is clear of any obstructions and all people and animals are away 

from Solo before spinning the props.

400 ft 400 ft

TAKEOFF PART 2

Auto-takeo

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo.

“Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors

are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo

begins. 

Telemetry

Back on telemetry screen after auto-takeo.

Auto-takeo message

During auto-takeo, target altitude message is

displayed.

Message times out after 3000 milliseconds. 

Auto-takeo

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo.

“Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors

are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo

begins.

Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. 

Auto-takeo

Green bar returns to zero progress position 

on transition.

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo.

“Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors

are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo

begins. 

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Hold FLY to take off

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

9999FT

700FT

HOME

100%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

GOING TO 5 FT ALTITUDE

Cable Cam Orbit

9999FT

700FT

HOME

100%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Hold FLY to take off

Hold FLY to take off

TAKEOFF PART 2

Auto-takeo

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo.

“Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors

are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo

begins. 

Telemetry

Back on telemetry screen after auto-takeo.

Auto-takeo message

During auto-takeo, target altitude message is

displayed.

Message times out after 3000 milliseconds. 

Auto-takeo

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo.

“Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors

are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo

begins.

Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. 

Auto-takeo

Green bar returns to zero progress position 

on transition.

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo.

“Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors

are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo

begins. 

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Hold FLY to take off

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

9999FT

700FT

HOME

100%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

GOING TO 5 FT ALTITUDE

Cable Cam Orbit

9999FT

700FT

HOME

100%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Hold FLY to take off

Hold FLY to take off

Be aware of Solo’s orientation before takeoff so you can safely navigate Solo 

up and away from you once it’s in the air. If Solo is facing towards you at 

takeoff, move the right stick back; if Solo is facing away from you, move the 

right stick forward.

AUTO-LAND 

Auto-land

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land.

Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. 

Auto-landing message

During auto-land, landing status is messaged.

Messgae stays on screen until copter has

landed. 

Spot lock Rewind

555656

Auto-landing complete

Auto-land complete screen shown when

copter has touched down. 

(In case user is not able to see copter.)

Message times out after 5000 milliseconds. 

Auto-land prompt

If user presses “Fly” in ight, the auto-land 

prompt appears.

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land.

Spot lock Rewind

Telemetry

Back on telemetry screen after auto-landing,

prior to auto or user initiated disarming.

FLY 12

FLY 12

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

9999FT

700FT

HOME

100%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

LAND 12

LANDING IN PROGRESS

Cable Cam Orbit

5FT

0FT

HOME

30%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

LAND 12

LANDING COMPLETE

Hold FLY to land

Hold FLY to land

AUTO-LAND 

Auto-land

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land.

Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. 

Auto-landing message

During auto-land, landing status is messaged.

Messgae stays on screen until copter has

landed. 

Spot lock Rewind

555656

Auto-landing complete

Auto-land complete screen shown when

copter has touched down. 

(In case user is not able to see copter.)

Message times out after 5000 milliseconds. 

Auto-land prompt

If user presses “Fly” in ight, the auto-land 

prompt appears.

User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land.

Spot lock Rewind

Telemetry

Back on telemetry screen after auto-landing,

prior to auto or user initiated disarming.

FLY 12

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

5FT

0FT

HOME

30%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit

9999FT

700FT

HOME

100%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

LAND 12

LANDING IN PROGRESS

Cable Cam Orbit

5FT

0FT

HOME

30%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

LAND 12

LANDING COMPLETE

Hold FLY to land

Hold FLY to land

When commanded to land, Solo will land at the current location, 

wherever it is. Always make sure there is a clear path to a safe landing 

point directly below Solo before landing. 

Never approach Solo while the propellers are spinning. After an 

auto-landing or return-to-home, always wait until the propellers stop 

before approaching or touching Solo. 
21

4.4 Return to Home

The Return Home button allows you to bring your flight to an end by recalling Solo to its launch location and landing. 

Keep in mind that Return Home requires enough battery to get back to the launch point, so if you need to end your 

flight immediately then land manually or hold the Fly button. Return Home requires GPS lock prior to takeoff.

Figure 4.4.2.1: Return to Home Button

Return to Home (flying below 15m)

If a call to Return to Home is triggered when Solo is below 15m, Solo will first ascend to 25m before making its way 

to the home position set at the beginning of the flight, hover above the home position for 5 seconds and then land.

Figure 4.4.2.2: RTH Below

Return to Home (flying above 15m)

If a call to Return to Home is triggered when Solo is above 15m, Solo will first rise 10m before making its way to the 

home position set at the beginning of the flight, hover above the home position for 5 seconds and then land.

Figure 4.4.2.3: RTH Above

Always verify that there is a clear path to the home point before activating 

Return Home.
22

4.5 In-Flight Data

Use the controller’s main data display to monitor Solo’s status in flight.

Figure 4.5.2.1: Controller - In-Flight Data

1 Flight battery percentage remaining 

2 GPS signal strength and number of active satellites

3 Active mode or Smart Shot (“Fly” indicates standard flight.)

4 Controller battery level 

5 Solo Wi-Fi signal strength

6 Horizontal distance from the home position (launch point)

7 Current altitude

8 Currently assigned functions of controller A and B buttons

2

3 4

5

6

7

8

1
23

4.6 Joystick Control

The controller’s two joysticks allow you to navigate Solo in flight. The left stick controls Solo’s altitude and rotation.

Figure 4.6.2.1: Controller Left Joystick

Move the left stick vertically to control Solo’s altitude and acceleration.

Figure 4.6.2.2: Throttle Joystick Behaviors

Left Stick

Move the left stick back from 

center to decrease altitude. 

Set the left stick to center to 

maintain the current altitude.

Left Stick

Set the left stick fully back to 

land once Solo is a few inches 

above the ground.

Left Stick

To take off and to gain altitude, 

move the left stick slightly past 

the center position.

Left Stick

UP

DOWN

ROTATE

LEFT

ROTATE 

RIGHT
24

Move the left stick horizontally to rotate Solo and control orientation.

Figure 4.6.2.3: Yaw Joystick Behavior

Use the right stick to fly Solo forward, back, left, and right. These movements are relative to Solo’s current 

orientation, so always maintain awareness of Solo’s forward-facing direction before using right-stick controls.

Figure 4.6.2.4: Controller Right Joystick Controls

Hover + Land

Lower just slightly

to hover

Left Yaw

Left

Right

Right Yaw

Deactivate

Hold until propellers

stop spinning

Lower just slightly

to hover

Left Yaw

Left

Right

Right Yaw

Deactivate

Hold until propellers

stop spinning

Move the stick to the left to 

rotate counterclockwise.

Move the stick to the right to 

rotate clockwise.

Left Stick

Release the stick to stop 

rotating the maintain the 

current orientation

LEFT RIGHT

FORWARD

BACK
25

Move the right stick vertically to control pitch.

Figure 4.6.2.5: Pitch Joystick Controls

Move the right stick horizontally to control roll.

Figure 4.6.2.6: Roll Joystick Controls

Activate

Hold until propellers 

start spinning.

Take-off + Lift

Raise just slightly 

for take off

Hover + Land

Lower just slightly

to hover

Left Yaw

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Right Yaw

Deactivate

Hold until propellers

stop spinning

Activate

Hold until propellers 

start spinning.

Take-off + Lift

Raise just slightly 

for take off

Hover + Land

Lower just slightly

to hover

Left Yaw

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Right Yaw

Deactivate

Hold until propellers

stop spinning

Move the right stick 

forward to fly forward.

Move the right stick 

back to fly backward.

Activate

Hold until propellers 

tart spinning.

Take-off + Lift

Raise just slightly 

or take off

Hover + Land

Lower just slightly

o hover

Left Yaw

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Right Yaw

Deactivate

Hold until propellers

top spinning

Activate

Hold until propellers 

start spinning.

Take-off + Lift

Raise just slightly 

or take off

Hover + Land

Lower just slightly

o hover

Left Yaw

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Right Yaw

Deactivate

Hold until propellers

stop spinning

Move the right stick 

left to fly left.

Move the right stick right 

to fly right.

If you’re new to drones, take some time to learn the basics before your 

first flight. Visit 3dr.com/solo/info or check out Flight School in the Solo 

app to learn about flight controls and best practices.
26

4.7 App Interface Overview

The Solo app provides a simplified interface for viewing Solo’s video feed and managing Smart Shots. 

Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Main Interface

 1 Live video feed

 2 Main menu

 3 Horizontal distance from home

 4 Altitude

 5 Shot List

 6 Flight battery percentage remaining

 7 Controller signal strength

 8 Hide telemetry bar

 9 Map view

10 Start/stop recording to mobile device

11 Alerts and instructions

4.7.1 Map View

To access the small map view, swipe left from the right edge of the app. Swipe left again to full-screen the map, and 

tap the video display to hide the map. The map view is available only with GPS lock and on devices with cellular 

Internet.

4.7.2 Shot List

To access the Shot List, select the active mode or shot from the title bar. Choose from Selfie, Cable Cam, Orbit, and 

Follow to start a shot, or select Fly for standard flight.

Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Shot List

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

1

9

11

10
27

5 Smart Shots

Solo’s Smart Shots automate video capturing to make it easy to get stunning aerial video. Cable Cam and Orbit are 

automatically assigned to the controller’s A and B buttons. Use the app to access Selfie or Follow. Smart Shots are 

available only with the Solo app.

When using Smart Shots without a Solo Gimbal, Solo cannot ensure that the subject is in the frame at all times. 

When attempting Smart Shots without a Solo Gimbal, adjust the camera mount so the camera is fixed at an 

appropriate angle to improve the chances of keeping the subject in the frame.

5.1 Selfie

In Selfie, Solo flies a smooth up-and-back path to capture a subject in a cinematic establishing shot. Before starting 

a selfie, always ensure that there is a clear path 200 feet (61 m) behind and above Solo. Once Selfie is activated, 

Solo will fly up and away from the subject to a point 164 feet (50 m) from the subject at 82 feet (25 m) altitude. 

Figure 5.1.2.1: Selfie Path and Settings

1 Distance out (default 164 ft.)

2 Altitude up (default 82 ft.)

3 Flight path

5.1.1 Selfie Setup

To start Selfie, fly Solo to a starting point, facing the subject from approximately 10 feet away, and select Selfie from 

the Shot List. The app will prompt you to press the right arrow to start the selfie.

Figure 5.1.1.1: App - Selfie Activation

5.1.2 Selfie Operation

Tap the forward and back arrows in the app to fly Solo along the Selfie path. The default cruise speed when using 

the app to control Solo in Selfie is set to 9 mph (4 m/s). 

2

1

3

Always ensure that there is a clear path 200 feet (30 m) behind and 

above Solo before starting Selfie. Press Pause at any time during Selfie 

to stop Solo. Press Fly at any time to switch to manual control.
28

Figure 5.1.2.1: App - Selfie Control

To control Selfie using the controller, use the right stick to move Solo forward and back along the Selfie path. Press 

Pause at any time to stop Solo; press Fly to exit to standard flight. 

Figure 5.1.2.2: Controller - Selfie Control

5.1.3 Settings

To access the settings from the in-flight Selfie interface, select the option icon with the three dots in the bottomright. Use the sliders to adjust distance out, altitude up, and cruise speed. Select Selfie How-To for instructions and 

tips.

Figure 5.1.3.1: App - Selfie Settings

5.2 Cable Cam

Cable Cam creates a smooth shot by flying Solo along an invisible cable between any two preset points.

5.2.1 Starting Cable Cam

Press A on the controller, or select Cable Cam from the Shot List on the app. Both devices will prompt you to fly 

Solo to your first point and press A to save it as the first Cable Cam point. Then fly to your second point and press B 

to save the second point. Try adding a difference in altitude or orientation between the two points for an impressive 

cinematic effect.

Move along 

flight path
29

Figure 5.2.1.1: App - Cable Cam Setup

5.2.2 Cable Cam Operation

To control Cable Cam through the app, tap the right arrow to move towards point A and tap the left arrow to move 

towards point B. Cable Cam’s default cruise speed is set to 9 mph (4 m/s).

Figure 5.2.2.1: App - Cable Cam Controls

To operate Cable Cam using the controller, move the right stick to the left to fly towards point A and to the right to 

fly towards point B. Release the right stick to pause along the cable. Use the left stick to temporarily override the 

camera and look left and right. Press Pause at any time to stop Solo; press Fly to exit to standard flight. 

Figure 5.2.2.2: Controller - Cable Cam Controls

5.2.3 Cable Cam Settings

To adjust Cable Cam’s options, select the settings menu in the bottom-right corner. Automatic view lock prevents 

left-stick camera control during Cable Cam. Choose Fly Counterclockwise and Fly Clockwise to customize the 

direction Solo rotates between your A and B points. Select Cable Cam How-To for instructions and tips.

Figure 5.2.3.1: App - Cable Cam Settings

Always ensure that there is a clear path between points A and B before 

starting Cable Cam.

Camera Cable
30

5.3 Orbit

Use Orbit to fly Solo along a preset circle while fixing the camera on a central target. 

5.3.1 Starting Orbit

Select Orbit from the Shot List. The app will display the currently set radius of the orbit and show the location of the 

subject on the map. Fly Solo to correct the subject’s position on the map if necessary then press A on the controller 

to lock onto the subject. The app will display a Subject Locked confirmation once the orbit subject is set. To adjust 

the position of the subject during Orbit, move the center point on the map.

Figure 5.3.1.1: App - Orbit Setup

5.3.2 Orbit Operation

Tap the left and right arrows to fly Solo along the Orbit path. The default cruise speed for Orbit is 2.2 mph (1 m/s).

Figure 5.3.2.1: App - Orbit Controls

To control Orbit using the controller, move the right stick left and right to fly Solo along the Orbit path. Move the 

right stick up to reduce the radius of the orbit and move Solo closer to the subject; move the right stick down to 

increase the radius and move Solo away from the subject. 

Move the left stick left and right to temporarily override the camera’s lock on the subject and look left and right. 

Move the left stick up and down to adjust Solo’s altitude. Use the paddle on the top of the controller to raise and 

lower the altitude of the target. Press Pause at any time to stop Solo; press Fly to exit to standard flight.

Solo will orbit at a constant altitude relative to its launch point, 

not taking into account changes in ground level. Be aware of any 

elevations changes at your location that would affect Solo. Always 

ensure there is a clear path for Solo before starting Orbit.
31

Figure 5.3.2.2: Orbit Controls

5.3.3 Orbit Settings

Select the Orbit Settings Menu to adjust Solo’s default cruise speed in Orbit. 

Figure 5.3.3.1: App - Orbit Settings

5.4 Follow

Follow creates a virtual tether between Solo and your mobile device, allowing Solo to track you as you move. If 

the Follow subject is engaged in an activity that prevents them from using the controller, you are required to use a 

safety pilot during Follow. The subject will carry the mobile device and be followed by Solo, and the safety pilot will 

hold the controller and be ready to regain manual control at any time. 

Don’t allow more than 500 feet of distance between the controller and the mobile device; however, specific range 

limits depend on the device being used. If too much distance is allowed between the controller and the mobile 

device, the device could lose connection with the controller.

5.4.1 Follow Setup

To start Follow, select Follow from the Shot List in the app and navigate Solo to face the subject. Tap the 

instructional bar to begin following.

Figure 5.4.1.1: App - Follow Setup

Orbit

Altitude Adjust radius

Camera

Subject altitude

Always ensure that there is a clear path for Solo during Follow. It 

will not avoid obstacles that come into the flight path as a result of 

following the subject. 
32

5.4.2 Follow Operation

Once activated, Solo will automatically follow the mobile device wherever the subject carries it. In the app, the 

subject can press the left and right arrows to orbit Solo around them. On the controller, move the right stick up and 

down to adjust the following distance, and move the right stick left and right to orbit around the subject. Use the 

left stick to adjust Solo’s altitude during Follow and to override the camera tracking and temporarily pan the camera 

left and right. At any time during Follow, press Pause to stop Solo and the camera will continue to track the subject. 

Press Fly to return to standard flight.

Figure 5.4.2.1: Follow Controls

5.4.3 Follow Settings

Select the Settings menu to adjust the default cruise speed during Follow. Follow’s default cruise speed is set to 2.2 

mph (1 m/s).

Figure 5.4.3.1: App - Follow Settings

Orbit

Adjust following 

Altitude distance

Camera
33

6 Alerts

The following alerts will appear on the controller in the event of a preflight or in flight error. Always monitor the 

controller for alerts and perform the recommended actions.

6.1 Preflight Errors

Before starting the motors, Solo runs a series of automatic checks to ensure that the system is ready for flight. 

6.1.1 Calibration

The following errors indicate that a preflight check is in progress: altitude calibrating, calibrating solo, and calibrating 

compass. Please wait for the error to clear before continuing.

Figure 6.1.1.1: Controller - Calibration in Progress Alerts

If Solo is not placed on a level surface, you will receive the following alert to move Solo to a level surface for takeoff.

Figure 6.1.1.2: Controller - Uneven Surface Alert 

If Solo requires manual calibration, the following alert messages show the displays for compass and level 

calibrations. Refer to Section 9.2 for compass and level calibration instructions.

Figure 6.1.1.3: Controller - Re-Calibration Required Alerts

In the case of a calibration or sensor error during startup, restart Solo to clear the following alerts.

PREARM SENSOR ERRORS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Altitude calibrating

Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Compass error

Please calibrate compass using

the 3DR Solo app

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Level error Please calibrate level 

using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen

For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart

Sensor error

Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown

Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an 

ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.)

HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse

After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo”

Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate

?

Dismiss

Control sticl error

Persists until:

Controller starts with stick values in range. 

Control stick error

Contact 3DR customer support

ARMING ALERTS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check)

User powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Throttle too high

This flight mode requires low 

throttle before starting motors

Catch-All

Remaining rare but problematic APM errors

will be captured under a catch-all for

logging trouble tickets

Service required

Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble 

ticket with customer support

ARMING ALERTS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor 

User powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor chec

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor che

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Throttle too high

This flight mode requires low 

throttle before starting motors

Catch-All

Remaining rare but problematic APM errors

will be captured under a catch-all for

logging trouble tickets

Service required

Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble 

ticket with customer support

ARMING ALERTS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check)

User powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Throttle too high

This flight mode requires low 

throttle before starting motors

Catch-All

Remaining rare but problematic APM errors

will be captured under a catch-all for

logging trouble tickets

Service required

Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble 

ticket with customer support

PREARM SENSOR ERRORS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Altitude calibrating

Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Compass error

Please calibrate compass using

the 3DR Solo app

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Level error Please calibrate level 

using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen

For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart

Sensor error

Please try and restart Solo

PREARM SENSOR ERRORS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Altitude calibrating

Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Compass error

Please calibrate compass using

the 3DR Solo app

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Level error Please calibrate level 

using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen

For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart

Sensor error

Please try and restart Solo

Control sticl error

Persists until:

Controller starts with stick values in range. 

Control stick error

Contact 3DR customer support
34

Figure 6.1.1.4: Controller - Calibration Error Alert

6.1.2 Service Alerts

The following alerts indicate a system error that requires service. Use the app to submit a trouble ticket with 3DR 

Support or contact an authorized Solo Service Center to service Solo and clear the alert. A control stick error can 

occur either in flight or before takeoff. If the control stick error is received in flight, Solo will return home and land. 

Figure 6.1.2.1: Controller - Service Alerts

6.2 In-Flight Errors

During flight, the controller monitors Solo’s GPS signal, controller signal, flight battery level, and controller battery 

level.

6.2.1 Altitude Limit

If Solo reaches the altitude limit during flight, it will maintain and not exceed that altitude and the controller will 

display the following alert. 

Figure 6.2.1.1: Controller - Altitude Limit Alert

6.2.2 App Connection

The controller will display the following banner-style alerts in the event that the Solo app is connected to or 

disconnected from Solo. We recommend having an active connection to the Solo app at all times during flight. Refer 

to Section 2.6 for connecting to Solo Wi-Fi with the app. Solo will not return home if the connection to the app in 

lost during flight.

ARMING ALERTS

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check)

User powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface

Altitude calibration

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Throttle too high

This flight mode requires low 

throttle before starting motors

Catch-All

Remaining rare but problematic APM errors

will be captured under a catch-all for

logging trouble tickets

Service required

Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble 

ticket with customer support

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Level error Please calibrate level 

using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen

For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart

Sensor error

Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown

Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an 

ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.)

HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse

After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo”

Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate

?

Dismiss

Control sticl error

Persists until:

Controller starts with stick values in range. 

Control stick error

Contact 3DR customer support

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

g p

Please wait

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface

Compass error

User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.

Alert persists until:

User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Throttle too high

This flight mode requires low 

throttle before starting motors

Catch-All

Remaining rare but problematic APM errors

will be captured under a catch-all for

logging trouble tickets

Service required

Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble 

ticket with customer support

Powers off controller, or Solo

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Compass error

Please calibrate compass using

the 3DR Solo app

Level error

User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate

Alert persists until:

User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check)

Powers off controller, or Solo 

Controller auto-shutdown

Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on 

restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo.

Level error Please calibrate level 

using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen

For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart

Sensor error

Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown

Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an 

ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.)

HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse

After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo”

Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate

?

Dismiss

Control sticl error

Persists until:

Controller starts with stick values in range. 

Control stick error

Contact 3DR customer support

IN-FLIGHT ALERTS: CONTROLLER RELATED

RC Failsafe

Controller signal lost, RTH screen

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Controller signal lost Solo will return home

RC Signal Recovered

User can press Fly to recover 

Alert persists until:

User presses Fly and enters Fly mode

HAPTIC: 40millisecond so user is aware that they can take control

RC Failsafe (No GPS)

Controller signal lost, 

emergency land screen

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Controller Value out of Range 

User is asked to contact customer support 

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

go to persistent hint-box message

(persistent until reboot) Control stick error Solo will return home

Signal recovered

Controller signal lost

Emergency landing started

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

Return 

12

Contro

Contact 3DR S

Camera paddle and dial failure

Alert triggered on input error on the paddle 

or tilt speed dial potentiometers

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Control stick error Solo will return home

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Manual camera controls error

IN-FLIGHT ALERTS

Maximum Altitude

User is told that maximum altitude has been reached

Vehicle is not able to go higher than max altitude

Alert appears once per flight and is triggered at 100 FT by default. 

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

HAPTIC: Double buzz 40-40 millisecond

Maximum altitude Preset max altitude reached

Crash Detected

User can use app to log a support ticket

Alert persists until:

User presses A

HAPTIC: Quad buzz: 40-40-40-40

Solo SFX: Start lost call ping if more than 10 m away Crash detected

GPS signal lost (Switches to FLY: Manual)

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

HAPTIC: Triple buzz twice: 30-30-30, 30-30-30

GPS lost

Switching to manual control

Press to dismiss

GPS signal recovered 

(No advanced mode, Manual mode not set to A or B)

Switches to FLY when GPS is recovered

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds
35

Figure 6.2.2.1: Controller - App Connection Alerts

6.2.3 Controller Signal Alerts

Flying behind solid objects, like buildings and trees, blocks communication signals between Solo and the controller. 

Always maintain visual contact with Solo to ensure that the signal is unobstructed. Cell phone towers and nearby 

Wi-Fi signals can cause interference with the communication system and decrease its range. Avoid flying in 

populated areas to avoid sources of interference.

If the controller becomes unpaired from Solo during flight, the controller will display the following alert and Solo will 

Return Home. See Section 9.3 for pairing instructions.

Figure 6.2.3.1: Controller - Controller Disconnected Alert

If the signal between Solo and the controller is lost during flight, the controller will display the controller signal lost 

alert and Solo will Return Home. If signal is recovered while returning home, the controller will display the signal 

recovered alert and provide the option to regain manual control by pressing the Fly button.

Figure 6.2.3.2: Controller - Controller Signal Alerts

6.2.4 GPS Signal Alerts

If GPS is lost during flight, Solo will switch into Fly:Manual. In the event of a loss of GPS, we recommend landing 

Solo and waiting to acquire GPS lock before taking off again.

In Fly:Manual, Solo uses the same joystick controls as in standard flight (displayed as “Fly”), but it does not include 

any GPS positioning. Therefore, in Fly:Manual, Solo will not hold its position when the right stick is released, and 

you must maintain close control over roll, pitch, and yaw. Without GPS, Pause, Return Home, and Smart Shots are 

not available. During Land, Solo will not be able to maintain position due to the lack of GPS positioning and will drift 

according to wind and other environmental conditions. If another alert occurs while Solo is in Fly:Manual, Solo will 

not be able to Return Home and will instead initiate a non-positioned landing at the current location. 

If GPS is recovered in flight, Solo will switch from Fly:Manual to standard flight (Fly), and GPS positioning will 

activate. The following displays show (from left to right) the GPS lost alert, Solo in Fly:Manual, and GPS recovered 

alert. Always choose a location with a clear view of the sky to improve GPS signal strength.

Solo app disconnected (Banner)

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Landing Complete

Screen showing automatic landing is complete

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

Controller connection poor (Banner)

Appears once connection strength is below average performance

for X time. 

TIMEOUT: After 3000 milliseconds

84FT

3DR Solo app connected

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

3DR Solo app disconnected

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Landing complete

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Disconnected 12

Disconnected from Solo

IN-FLIGHT BANNER ALERTS

Solo app connected (Banner)

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Solo app disconnected (Banner)

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Landing Complete

Screen showing automatic landing is complete

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

Controller connection poor (Banner)

Appears once connection strength is below average performance

for X time. 

TIMEOUT: After 3000 milliseconds

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

3DR Solo app connected

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

3DR Solo app disconnected

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Landing complete

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Disconnected 12

Disconnected from Solo

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Solo app disconnected (Banner)

System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity

Alert persists until:

System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) 

Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Landing Complete

Screen showing automatic landing is complete

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

Controller connection poor (Banner)

Appears once connection strength is below average performance

for X time. 

TIMEOUT: After 3000 milliseconds

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 

3DR Solo app connected

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

3DR Solo app disconnected

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12

Landing complete

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Disconnected 12

Disconnected from Solo

IN-FLIGHT ALERTS: CONTROLLER RELATED

RC Failsafe

Controller signal lost, RTH screen

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Controller signal lost Solo will return home

RC Signal Recovered

User can press Fly to recover 

Alert persists until:

User presses Fly and enters Fly mode

HAPTIC: 40millisecond so user is aware that they can take control

RC Failsafe (No GPS)

Controller signal lost, 

emergency land screen

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Controller Value out of Range 

User is asked to contact customer support 

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

go to persistent hint-box message

(persistent until reboot) Control stick error Solo will return home

Signal recovered

Controller signal lost

Emergency landing started

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Return Home 12

Control stick error

Contact 3DR Support after landing

Control stick error Solo will return home

IN-FLIGHT ALERTS: CONTROLLER RELATED

RC Failsafe

Controller signal lost, RTH screen

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Controller signal lost Solo will return home

RC Signal Recovered

User can press Fly to recover 

Alert persists until:

User presses Fly and enters Fly mode

HAPTIC: 40millisecond so user is aware that they can take control

RC Failsafe (No GPS)

Controller signal lost, 

emergency land screen

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Controller Value out of Range 

User is asked to contact customer support 

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

go to persistent hint-box message

(persistent until reboot) Control stick error Solo will return home

Signal recovered

Controller signal lost

Emergency landing started

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Return Home 12

Control stick error

Contact 3DR Support after landing

Camera paddle and dial failure

Alert triggered on input error on the paddle 

or tilt speed dial potentiometers

TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds

Control stick error Solo will return home

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY 12
36

Figure 6.2.4.1: Controller - GPS Signal Alerts

6.2.5 Flight Battery Alerts

The controller monitors the Solo battery during flight and provides alerts when the battery reaches critical levels. At 

25% and 10% power remaining, the controller will provide a land-soon alert recommending that you end your flight 

to prevent an automatic landing.

Figure 6.2.5.1: Controller - Low Battery Alerts

If the battery reaches 5%, Solo will Return Home to prevent a crash. After landing, turn off Solo immediately; if the 

battery level reaches 0% at any time, irreversible damage will occur and the battery should be recycled.

Figure 6.2.5.2: Controller - Critical Battery Alert

6.2.6 Controller Battery Alerts

When the controller battery reaches 10% of its remaining charge, the controller will display an alert to notify you to 

charge the controller at your next opportunity. At 5%, the controller will prompt you to end your flight and charge 

the controller. If the controller battery reaches a critical level in flight, Solo will Return Home. The following displays 

show (left to right) the 10%, 5%, and 0% alerts

Figure 6.2.6.1: Controller - Controller Battery Alerts

GPS signal lost (Switches to FLY: Manual)

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

HAPTIC: Triple buzz twice: 30-30-30, 30-30-30

GPS lost

Switching to manual control

GPS signal recovered 

(User who has either advanced mode enabled, or manual set to A or B)

(When home is already set) 

Switches to FLY form Fly:Manual when user presses Fly

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds GPS ready

Press to dismiss

Press FLY for GPS control

GPS signal recovered 

(No advanced mode, Manual mode not set to A or B)

Switches to FLY when GPS is recovered

Alert persists until:

TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

HAPTIC: 40 millisecond buzz for awareness GPS ready

GPS signal established

(User took off without GPS, no home position, regardless of advanced modes)

Alert persists until user sets home

HAPTIC: 20 milliseconds every 3 seconds until press

GPS found

Press FLY to set home

Switching to FLY

Modified Telem screen (Version 1)

Now shows new mode. A & B functions that require 

GPS are greyed out.

Switching to manual control

Cable Cam Orbit

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

FLY:Manual 6

 

CONTROLLER BATTERY WARNINGS + PROMPTS

Between 5% and 10% user is asked to charge soon

Message only appears when Solo is not in flight (pre-flight 

state, motors not started.)

Helps user catch low battery before flight. 

Fullscreen prompt at 5%

Message timeout after 3000 miliseconds. Go to previous 

screen + minimized prompt (continuous until landing.)

Good controller battery state

charge soon Low controller battery

Dismiss

Cable Cam Orbit

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Stabilize 12

Cable Cam Orbit

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Stabilize 12

 

CONTROLLER BATTERY WARNINGS + PROMPTS

Controller battery low 

Please land soon

Between 5% and 10% user is asked to charge soon

Message only appears when Solo is not in flight (pre-flight 

state, motors not started.)

Helps user catch low battery before flight. 

Fullscreen prompt at 5%

Message timeout after 3000 miliseconds. Go to previous 

screen + minimized prompt (continuous until landing.)

Slider message persists

Battery updates to red fill for 3%-5%

(Battery level now known in 3% chunks)

Good controller battery state

charge soon Low controller battery

land soon

Controller Battery at 5%

Dismiss

Cable Cam Orbit

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Stabilize 12

Cable Cam Orbit

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Stabilize 12

 

CONTROLLER BATTERY WARNINGS + PROMPTS

Controller battery low 

Please land soon

Between 5% and 10% user is asked to charge soon

Message only appears when Solo is not in flight (pre-flight 

state, motors not started.)

Helps user catch low battery before flight. 

Fullscreen prompt at 5%

Message timeout after 3000 miliseconds. Go to previous 

screen + minimized prompt (continuous until landing.)

Slider message persists

Battery updates to red fill for 3%-5%

(Battery level now known in 3% chunks)

Good controller battery state

(If GPS Lock is not present)

In-flight: At 0%, auto-land 

Message present until controller shuts down

(If GPS Lock is present)

In-flight: At 0%, Solo returns to home location 

Message present until controller shuts down

charge soon Low controller battery

land soon

Controller Battery at 5%

Returning home

Controller battery at 0%

Emergency-landing

Controller Battery at 0%

Dismiss

Cable Cam Orbit

324FT

84FT

HOME

48%

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE

Stabilize 12
37

7 Advanced Settings

This section provides instructions for accessing and using Solo’s advanced features and settings.

7.1 Advanced Flight Modes

Are you a quadcopter pro? We designed Solo to be simple and reliable, but also really fun to fly. Solo includes five 

advanced flight modes: FLY:Manual, stabilize, acro, sport, and drift.

7.1.1 Fly:Manual

Fly:Manual mode is a version of standard flight without GPS lock. In Fly:Manual, the throttle stick controls altitude 

the same way as standard flight (Fly mode). However, Fly:Manual includes no GPS positioning so that, when 

you release the right stick, Solo will not hold its position; it will drift according to wind conditions and existing 

momentum. When flying in Fly:Manual, make constant adjustment to the right stick to control Solo’s position and 

use the left stick to maintain Solo’s orientation. 

7.1.2 Stabilize

Stabilize mode provides full manual control without autopilot assistance. In stabilize, the autopilot regulates Solo’s 

roll and pitch angles so that Solo returns to level when you release the right stick. The throttle stick controls power 

and acceleration directly; it does not correspond to altitude. Stabilize requires fine-tuned control of both the left and 

right sticks to fly Solo. Stabilize does not require GPS lock.

7.1.3 Drift

Drift modes requires GPS lock and provides a plane-like flying experience. Drift is ideal for navigating Solo using 

the video feed. This is known as first-person view (FPV) and provides an immersive flying experience. In drift, Solo 

combines roll, pitch, and yaw onto the controller’s right stick. To navigate Solo in drift, move the right stick to initiate 

a coordinated turn in that direction. Releasing the right stick will cause Solo to drift to a stop over a two-second 

period. Solo does not automatically control altitude in drift, and will require constant adjustments to the throttle stick 

when flying in drift.

7.1.4 Acro

Acro is the most advanced of Solo’s flight modes. It provides unrestricted control over Solo’s roll and pitch angles. 

Acro is intended for performing aerial acrobatics, flips, and maneuvers requiring extreme angles. There is no altitude 

or position assistance in acro, so be prepared to make constant adjustment to both sticks. Acro is a copter-frame 

oriented mode, meaning that, in acro, Solo will always respond to controls relative to its own orientation. Acro does 

not require GPS lock.

Advanced flight modes are for experienced operators only. Do not 

attempt to fly in any advanced modes unless you are comfortable 

flying multicopters without positioning and altitude assistance. 

Do not fly in acro unless you are an extremely experienced operator. 

Without the proper skills, crashes in acro are highly likely.
38

7.1.5 Sport

Sport mode in a modified version of acro that includes altitude assistance and earth-frame orientation. With 

altitude assistance, the throttle stick behaves the same in sport as it does in standard flight (Fly mode). Earth-frame 

orientation differs from copter-frame orientation in that the direction of yaw rotation is in relation to the earth instead 

of in relation to the copter itself. For example, if Solo is pitched forward in sport mode and left yaw is applied, 

Solo will maintain the same pitch angle and rotate around the vertical axis. As opposed to in acro’s copter-frame 

orientation, in which, in the same situation, Solo will perform a cartwheel. Sport does not require GPS lock.

7.2 Enabling Advanced Flight Modes

To unlock Solo’s advanced flight modes, use the app to select Advanced Settings from the Settings menu. Toggle 

the Enable Advanced Flight Modes option to gain access to Solo’s advanced modes.

Figure 7.2.5.1: App - Advanced Settings

7.3 Accessing Advanced Flight Modes

Once enabled, advanced flight modes can be accessed only be assigning them to the controller’s A and B buttons 

using the app. In the app, select Preset A or Preset B from the Solo menu. (The app must be connected to Solo to 

apply button assignments.) Once assigned, use the controller to activate advanced modes during flight.

Figure 7.3.5.1: App - A and B Presets

7.4 Home Position Safety

Fly:Manual, stabilize, acro, and sport modes do not require GPS lock. To take off without GPS lock, Solo must be 

set to one of these modes. Without an active GPS signal, Return Home, Pause, and Smart Shots will be disabled. 

If you choose to take off without GPS lock, Solo will not save a home position at the launch point. If Solo acquires 

GPS lock mid-flight, the autopilot will save a home position at that location. To prevent a potentially unsafe situation, 

do not use Return Home if Solo did not acquire GPS prior to takeoff.

If Solo did not acquire GPS lock prior to takeoff, do not use Return 

Home.
39

7.5 Performance Adjustment

The Solo app includes options to adjust Solo’s performance to suit your flying style. To access the performance 

sliders, select Performance from the Solo menu. The flight slider controls how fast Solo flies and how responsive 

it is to controls. The camera pan slider regulates the speed that Solo rotates. Move the slider towards the turtle for 

slower, more cushioned movement, or move the slider towards the rabbit for faster, more responsive movement.

Figure 7.5.5.1: App - Performance Sliders

7.6 Units

To change the units in the Solo app from imperial to metric, select Units from the Settings menu.

Figure 7.6.5.1: App - Change Units

7.7 Maximum Altitude Adjustment

To adjust the altitude limit, select Altitude Limit from the Solo menu. If you choose to select No limit, ensure that you 

always operate Solo within your visual line of sight and in compliance with local regulations.

Figure 7.7.5.1: App - Altitude Limit
40

8 Support

3DR Support is here to help you get the most out of Solo. If you have any questions, please contact us at 

support@3dr.com or give us a call at 1 (855) 982-2898 (toll free in the US and Canada) or direct at +1 (858) 225-

1414. To submit a support request through our website, visit 3dr.com/support.

Use the Solo app to submit a trouble ticket and your flight logs will automatically be sent to 3DR Support. To submit 

a support request within the Solo app, select Support from the main menu, and select Log Trouble Ticket.

Figure 8.7.5.1: App - Submit Trouble Ticket

9 Maintenance

This section covers basic operational maintenance procedures for Solo. For repairs not covered in this manual, 

contact 3DR Support or an authorized Solo Service Center.

Solo’s exterior components are designed to absorb impact from hard landings and protect the core electronics. 

If damage is sustained to Solo’s legs or motors, replace them with official 3DR parts from store.3dr.com or an 

authorized retailer. 3DR offers an extended controller battery upgrade with double the capacity so you can fly more 

between charges. Before opening the battery bay or performing any maintenance on Solo, always ensure that Solo 

is powered off with the battery removed. 

9.1 Controller Battery Replacement

To replace the controller battery, open the battery door on the back of the controller. Remove the foam block and 

disconnect the battery from the port in the side of the battery compartment. To install a battery, connect the battery 

to the controller, and, for standard-size controller batteries, use the foam block to pad the empty space in the 

compartment. See Section 3.11 for information on safely storing spare controller batteries.

Figure 9.1.5.1: Controller Battery Installation
41

9.2 Calibrations

Use the Solo app to perform compass and level calibrations when prompted by the controller. Remove Solo’s 

propellers before performing calibrations. 

9.2.1 Compass Calibration

To calibrate Solo’s compass, connect the app to Solo Wi-Fi and select Compass Calibration from the Solo menu. 

Ensure that Solo and the controller are powered on with the propellers removed. Solo requires an interference-free 

environment for compass calibration, so ensure that you are away from metal buildings, reinforced concrete, or 

other metal structures before starting calibration.

Figure 9.2.1.1: App - Compass Calibration Setup

The app will prompt you to rotate Solo end-over-end multiple times until the bar at the top of the screen is 

completely green. If the calibration fails, move to a different location and try again.

Figure 9.2.1.2: App - Compass Calibration Procedure

9.2.2 Level Calibration

A level calibration zeroes Solo’s accelerometers to recognize static states. To perform a level calibration, remove 

the propellers from Solo and connect the app to Solo Wi-Fi. Select Level Calibration from the Solo menu, and follow 

the prompts to place Solo perfectly still on each side in turn. In each step, wait a few seconds after moving Solo to 

press Next.

Figure 9.2.2.1: App - Level Calibration
42

9.3 Pairing the Controller

1 Turn off the Solo and the Controller that you want to pair, along with any other Solos and Controllers nearby.

2 Power on the Solo and Controller that you want to pair.

3 Wait 30 seconds for Solo and the Controller to fully boot up.

4 Identify the Pair button underneath Solo. It’s a small button inside the hole labeled Pair. You’ll need to use a 

paperclip or small screwdriver, or another similar tool to push it.

Figure 9.3.2.1: Pair Button 

5 Press the Pair button underneath Solo and hold for one second.

6 When the Controller detects Solo, it will prompt you to accept the pairing request as seen in the screen below. 

(If the Controller does not detect Solo after thirty seconds, try pressing the Pair button underneath Solo again and 

repeat as needed.)

Figure 9.3.2.2: Detected Solo

7 Press A, then B and hold both buttons down, once the Controller vibrates, you can let go. Within 20 seconds, the 

Controller will show “Solo Paired.”

Figure 9.3.2.3: Solo Paired
43

9.4 Legs

Solo uses three unique types of legs: 2 legs with an antenna module (#1 and #2), a leg without any electronic 

components (leg #3), and a leg with a compass module (leg #4). Replacements for all types of leg can be purchased 

from store.3dr.com or an authorized retailer.

Figure 9.4.2.1: Leg Types

9.4.1 Leg #3

To replace a standard leg, use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws, detach the old leg, and attach 

the new leg using the provided screws. 

Figure 9.4.1.1: Standard Leg Replacement Process

9.4.2 Legs #1 and #2 with Antennas

To replace a leg with an antenna module where the antenna is physically undamaged, you’ll need to remove the 

antenna from the old leg before replacing it.

To detach the antenna, remove the plastic sheet from the leg (1) and detach the antenna from the Velcro by carefully 

pulling the cable (2). Follow the standard leg replacement procedure to detach the old leg (3).

1

Compass

Antenna

Antenna

Standard
44

Figure 9.4.2.1: Detaching the Antenna from the Leg

Attach the new leg by threading the antenna cable through the notch in the top of the leg (1) and securing the leg 

using the provide screws (2).

Figure 9.4.2.2: Attaching a New Leg with an Existing Antenna

To secure the antenna to the new leg, use the provided Velcro to attach only the yellow-backed Velcro strip to the 

Velcro on the antenna. Then remove the backing and attach the Velcro and antenna to the inside of the leg, placing 

the tip of the antenna 5 mm from the edge of the rubber foot (1) as shown below. Fold the ends of a provided 

plastic sheet at right angles (2), remove the adhesive backing, and stick the plastic sheet to the leg so it secures the 

antenna in place (3).

Figure 9.4.2.3: Attaching an Existing Antenna to a New Leg

1

2

3

2

1

3

2 1

5 mm between 

antenna and foot
45

9.4.3 Leg #4 with Compass

Solo’s right-rear leg (#4) contains the compass module. Start by detaching the leg from the arm as you would a 

standard leg, but the leg will not be removable until you disconnect the compass from Solo. To access the compass 

connector, you’ll need to remove the battery tray from Solo. See Section 9.5 for battery tray removal instructions. 

With the battery tray removed, locate the compass connector in the corner of the board closest to the leg being 

replaced. Disconnect the compass connector from the board by holding down the tab on the far side of the 

connector and lifting up the connector. Since the space between the arm and the connector is limited, it may help to 

use a screwdriver to press the tab.

Figure 9.4.3.1: Compass Connector on Mainboard

With the compass disconnected, remove the old leg and cable from Solo. Place the new leg into position and thread 

the new compass cable through the arm where it can connect to the board. Connect the compass connector in the 

same place as the old compass.

Figure 9.4.3.2: Insert New Leg with Compass

Secure the new leg in place and replace the battery tray.
46

9.5 Battery Tray

The battery tray holds the battery and GPS in place, and allows you to access the main electronics bay. This section 

covers how to remove to tray to access the interior of Solo.

9.5.1 GPS Cover

The GPS cover is the flat, black end cap in front of the battery tray. To remove it, use a small, flat prying tool to 

loosen the four clips along the back edge of the cover.

Figure 9.5.1.1: GPS Cover Removal

9.5.2 Battery Tray Removal

To detach the battery tray and access Solo’s main electronics bay, use a small Philips screwdriver to remove the 7 

screws securing the battery tray to Solo. 

Figure 9.5.2.1: Battery Tray Removal

The battery tray will still be connected to Solo via the GPS cable, so carefully lift out the tray just enough to access 

the board beneath. 

Figure 9.5.2.2: Battery Tray Detachment

GPS connector
47

9.6 Motors

Replacement motors are available as clockwise and counterclockwise Motor Pods. Use a counterclockwise Motor 

Pod to replace motors #1 and #2, and use a clockwise Motor Pod to replace motors #3 and #4. Replace motor pods 

every 150 hours of flight or when they can no longer turn smoothly.

To replace a Motor Pod, first, use a small, flat prying tool to remove the LED cover form the underside of the arm.

Figure 9.6.2.1: LED Cover Removal

Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws securing the pod to the arm.

Figure 9.6.2.2: Motor Pod Removal

Disconnect the wide beige connector, the red wire and the black wire to remove the old motor pod. To remove the 

wide beige connector (DF13), carefully lift the edges of the connector away from the pod until they pop out, then 

remove the connector. Don’t pull on the wires! The connector can break easily if force is used to remove it.
48

Figure 9.6.2.3: Motor Pod Disconnection

Connect the 3 cables from the arm to the new motor pod. Tuck the cables inside the arm and set the new pod into 

place. 

Figure 9.6.2.4: Motor Pod Connection

Turn over Solo and secure the new motor pod into place using the 4 provided screws. Do not reuse the screws from 

the old Motor Pod. Finally, snap the LED cover back into place.

Figure 9.6.2.5: Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment

1

2
49

9.7 Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset restores Solo and the controller to their state prior to the first flight update. Use a factory 

reset if you forget your Solo Wi-Fi password or need to restore Solo’s factory settings.

Step 1: Reset the Vehicle 

As part of the reset procedure, Solo will be un-paired from the Controller. Start by powering off Solo. Use a paper

clip or similar tool to press and hold Solo’s Pair button while powering on Solo. (Make sure you feel the Pair button

click down underneath the paper clip to verify you have properly activated the Pair button.) Continue holding the

Pair button for at least 15 seconds.

Figure 9.7.2.1: Pair Button

Bellow the Accessory Port and adjacent to the Pair button is small orange LED Pair indicator light, once this light

starts flashing rapidly (strobing about 5 times per second), you can release the Pair button.

Figure 9.7.2.2: Strobing Pairing Light

Step 2: Reset the Controller 

Start with the Controller powered off. Hold the Power and Fly buttons simultaneously until you see the controllerupdating display. The Controller will restart, taking up to 5 minutes, followed by the screen turning off for 1 minute.

Figure 9.7.2.3: Controller Reset 

Contact customer support before performing a Factory Reset. This 

procedure can cause irreparable damage to Solo. 
50

When the Controller reset is complete, you will see one of these two completions screens:

Figure 9.7.2.4: Controller Update 

As the vehicle reset nears completion, you will see the lights under the arms change between many different colors, 

followed by a sequence of beeps. The reset is complete once the lights stop changing colors. Upon completion, the 

lights will freeze on their current colors, so they may all be the same color or they may be different colors.

Step 3: Reboot Solo and the Controller 

While rebooting, Solo should make its regular startup tones. The lights underneath Solo’s arms should also light up 

green and change to white in the front and red in the back. If this does not happen, then reboot Solo again. If the 

lights change colors now, then the vehicle is still resetting. Let Solo finish resetting and then reboot Solo again once 

the lights stop changing colors. 

After rebooting the Controller, you should see the Preflight Update or Waiting for Solo screen.

Step 4: Pair Solo and the Controller

See section 9.3 for instructions how to pair Solo and the Controller.

Step 5: Update your system 

See section 2.6.4 for instructions how to update your system. The Factory Reset procedure is now complete. 
51

10 Appendix

10.1 Specifications

Solo is a quad-rotor aerial vehicle powered by the 3DR Pixhawk 2 autopilot system and APM:Copter flight control 

software. Solo communicates with the controller and Solo app over the 3DR Link secure Wi-Fi connection.

Autopilot: 3DR Pixhawk 2

Flight code: ArduPilot Copter

Control: 3DR Solo Controller

Wireless communication: 3DR Link 1.0

Frequency: 2.4 GHz

Height: 10 in. (25 cm)

Motor-to-motor dimension: 18 in. (26 cm)

Propulsion: 880 KV motors, two clockwise rotating motors and 

 two counterclockwise rotating motors

Propeller: 10 in. x 4.5 in. (25 cm x 11.4 cm)

Weight with battery: 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kg)

Controller battery life: 3 hours

Extended controller battery life: 6 hours

Controller battery: Li-ion 2600 mAh 7.2 Vdc (5200 mAh for extended battery)

Power: Electric (rechargeable lithium polymer battery)

Battery: Lithium polymer, 5200 mAh, 14.8 Vdc

Battery weight: 1 lb. (.5 kg)

Estimated flight time: 25 minutes*

Maximum altitude: 328 ft. (100 m)

Range: .5 miles** (.8 km)

Payload capacity: 1.1 lbs. (500 g)

Cruise speed: 5.7 mph (2.5 m/s)

Maximum speed: 55 mph (25.5 m/s)

Maximum climb rate: 11 mph (5.0 m/s)

Maximum descent rate: 5.5 mph (2.5 m/s)

Headwind limitation: 25 mph (11 m/s)

Crosswind limitation: 25 mph (11 m/s)

Camera: Streaming video compatible with GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4

 Full compatibility with GoPro® HERO 4

Solo app compatibility: iOS 8.0 or later / Android 4.3 or later

Operating temperature: 32° F - 113° F (0° C - 45° C)

Operating relative humidity: 0-85% RH

*Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style, 

and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level.

**Range varies with location, antenna orientation, background noise and multi-path.
52

10.2 Warranty

3D Robotics warrants to the original retail purchaser of Solo (the “Product”) that at the time of purchase that this 

product is free from material defect in materials and workmanship. Should this Product fail during normal consumer 

usage and conditions due to defective material or workmanship within one year from the date of purchase, or such 

longer period as is required by applicable law (“Warranty Period”), such defect(s) will be repaired or replaced at 3D 

Robotics’ option, without charge for parts or labor directly related to the defect(s). The complete terms of the limited 

warranty applicable to Solo can be found at 3dr.com/terms. 

This Warranty extends only to consumers who purchase the product from a 3D Robotics authorized reseller 

and is not transferable or assignable. This Warranty does not apply to: (1) Product subjected to abnormal use or 

conditions, accident (including without limitation, collision, crash or fire), alteration, or improper repair; (2) damage 

from exposure to moisture or extreme environmental conditions; (3) damage from use with any accessory, software 

or other product not expressly authorized by 3D Robotics; (4) damage from external causes such as dirt, sand, 

battery leakage, blown fuse, or improper usage of any electrical source; (5) commercial use; or (6) use in violation of 

law or ordinances in effect in the jurisdiction in which the Product is used.

3D Robotics assumes no liability for any accident, injury, death, loss, or other claim related to or resulting from 

the use of this product. 3D Robotics makes no other warranties for Solo, and makes no warranties whatsoever 

for service, software, maintenance or support for non-3D Robotics branded products. Such products, service, 

software, maintenance or support is provided by 3D Robotics “As Is” and any third-party warranties, products, 

software, services, maintenance or support are provided by the original manufacturer or supplier, not by 3D 

Robotics. 

Software is subject to the separate software license agreement accompanying or made available to you in 

connection with the software. A portion of the software contains or consists of open-source software, which you 

may use under the terms and conditions of the specific license under which the open-source software is distributed. 

You agree that you will be bound by any and all such license agreements, and that your usage of this product 

indicates your acceptance of those agreements. Title to software remains with the applicable licensor(s). In no event 

will 3D Robotics be liable to you for damages, including any general, special, incidental or consequential damages 

arising out of the use or inability to use the software.

THE EXTENT OF 3D ROBOTICS’ LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO THE REPAIR OR 

REPLACEMENT PROVIDED ABOVE AND, IN NO EVENT, SHALL ITS LIABILITY EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE 

PAID BY PURCHASER FOR THE PRODUCT.

10.3 Regulatory Compliance

10.3.1 U.S. - FCC (Federal Communication Commission)

3DR Solo FCC: 2ADYD-S111A

3DR Solo Controller FCC: 2ADYD-AT11A

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This 

device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including 

interference that may cause undesired operation. 

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by 3D Robotics could void the user’s authority to operate the 

equipment.

Radiation Exposure Statement:

The Solo system has been tested to ensure compliance with FCC-mandated limits for general population radio 

frequency (RF) exposure for an uncontrolled environment. These limits ensure that no harmful effects will result from 

operating Solo according to the standard operating procedures described in this manual. 
53

The body’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for the Solo controller is 1.33 watts per kilogram (W/kg) in compliance 

with the FCC limit of 1.6 W/kg. To reduce exposure to RF energy, hold Solo at least 20 cm away from your body at 

all times during operation. Do not operate the Solo controller co-located or in conjunction with any other antenna or 

transmitter.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not 

cause harmful interference.

10.3.2 Canada - Industry Canada

3DR Solo IC: 12768A-S114A

Model number: S110A

3DR Solo Controller IC: 12768A-AT14A

Model number: AT10A

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following 

two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, 

including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. 

L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) 

l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en 

compromettre le fonctionnement.

IC Radiation Exposure Statement:

The Solo system has been tested to ensure compliance with IC-mandated limits for general population radio 

frequency (RF) exposure for an uncontrolled environment. These limits ensure that no harmful effects will result 

from operating Solo according to the standard operating procedures described in this manual. To reduce exposure 

to RF energy, hold Solo at least 20 cm away from your body at all times during operation. Do not operate the Solo 

controller co-located or in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Changes or modifications not expressly 

approved by 3D Robotics could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.