UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No. _______________

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

John L Wheeler

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF 

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL 

OPERATION OF DJI PHANTOM 2 VISION+ AND DJI PHANTOM 3 

PROFESSIONAL MANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on August 1st, 2015

John L Wheeler

3430 Cape Forest Drive

Kingwood, TX 77345

Tel (281) 806 0137
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS...................................................................................3 

SUMMARY...........................................................................................................................4 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER....................................................4 

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

BASIS FOR PETITION.........................................................................................................5 

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER.............................................................7 

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH JOHN L WHEELER

SEEKS EXEMPTION.................................................................8 

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF JOHN L WHEELER SEEKS AND THE REASON 

JOHN L WHEELER SEEKS THE RELIEF.........................11 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING JOHN L WHEELER’S REQUEST WOULD 

BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST .........................................................15 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT 

ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY..........................................................................19 

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER......34 

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS 

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT JOHN L WHEELER’S REQUEST.........34 

CONCLUSION....................................................................................................................35 

APPENDICES........................................................................................37
3

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation 

GCS Ground Control Station 

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link 

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot In Command

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

SO Safety Observer

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
4

SUMMARY

John L Wheeler seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) 

& (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 

91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the 

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit John L

Wheeler to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, and landscape 

over certain areas of the United States. 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

John L Wheeler provides his clients with expertise and knowledge in the energy, 

insurance and real estate industries. John L Wheeler has over 8 years of professional 

experience in the Energy Sector and Insurance Industries as an expert in Mechanical and 

Utilities Inspections and Safety (OSHA 510 certified & National Center for Construction 

Education and Research, Certified for Abnormal Operating Conditions – Field 

Operations). He has over 40 years recreational/hobby experience in photography and 

video and 18 months experience of all aspects of aerial video and photography. The 

objective of John L Wheeler’s aerial video operations is to provide high quality imaging 

for a variety of commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting:

 Aerial acquisitions used for inspections of public and private infrastructure.

 Aerial video and photography for the Real Estate sector

 Motion Picture Filming

 Increase public knowledge of UAS and promote safe UAS operations.

 Search and Rescue operations
5

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 2 Vision+, DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs

John L Wheeler seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or 

hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional are 

vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control 

Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ has a maximum gross weight of approximately 2 pounds 11 ounces, while having 

a length of 16 inches width of 16 inches, height of 8 inches, and a maximum speed of 

approximately 29 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional has a maximum gross weight of 

approximately 2 pounds 13.15 ounces, a length of 16 inches width of 16 inches, height of 8 

inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 29 knots. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs are equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium 

Polymer battery powered electric motors. 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs that will be 

operated by John L Wheeler 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.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, John L Wheeler, 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 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+, DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UASs in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an 
6

exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 

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

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated 

with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, John L Wheeler’s operation of DJI Phantom 

2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs meets the conditions of FMRA Section 

333 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 

C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

Accordingly, John L Wheeler requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for 

maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. 

John L Wheeler submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level 

of safety will be ensured. John L Wheeler will use experienced personnel or technicians to 

perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the 

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

Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction 

Manual). Furthermore, John L Wheeler will document and maintain all maintenance 

records for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs. 

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

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by John L Wheeler 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 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs in a manner consistent with 
7

this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

John L Wheeler seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft 

airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs 

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

As such, John L Wheeler submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Inspire 1UASs are in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that 

the UASs are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual), and 

that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. 

John L Wheeler also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, 

entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAs will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of 

the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Inspire 1UAs will be provided to the PIC via Global 

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

downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude 

information, combined with John L Wheeler’s operation of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, 

will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. 

Additionally, John L Wheeler seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 

91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. John L Wheeler submits 

that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI

Phantom 3 Professional UAs during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions 
8

(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, John L Wheeler provides the following 

information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is:

John L Wheeler

3430 Cape Forest Drive

Kingwood, TX 77345

Tel (281) 806 0137 

Email: info@quadoptic.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption. 

1. John L Wheeler 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. 

2. John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.7(a).
9

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a), states the 

following: 

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

3. John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.121. 

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

part: 

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight 

level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, 

when operating--

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

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and 

within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft; 

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of 

this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate 

available station; or 

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

departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before 

departure. 

4. John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection

(b), states the following: 

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless 

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly 

to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to 

fly after that for at least 20 minutes. 

5. John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 

91.405(a).
10

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

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

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

between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this 

section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.] 

6. John L Wheeler 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)(1), states the following: 

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

maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless--

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 

43.7 of this chapter[.] 

7. John L Wheeler 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 --

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has 

been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this 

chapter; or 

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance 

with part 21 of this chapter. 

8. John L Wheeler 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: 
11

(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)(1) of this section shall be retained 

until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the 

work is performed. 
12

(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. 

C. The Extent Of Relief John L Wheeler Seeks And The Reason John L Wheeler

Seeks The Relief. 

1. Extent Of Relief John L Wheeler Seeks And The Reason John L Wheeler

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 61.113(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, John L Wheeler submits that an equivalent level of 

safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ UAS or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS unless that PIC has met certain flighthour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either 

the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS in a manner consistent 

with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and 
13

emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, 

vehicles and structures.

Further, John L Wheeler submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this 

Petition: (1) will be incidental to John L Wheeler’s business; and (2) will not carry

passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

2. Extent Of Relief John L Wheeler Seeks And The Reason John L Wheeler

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 John L Wheeler to determine that the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by

ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the John L

Wheeler Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual). 

John L Wheeler seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance 

with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, John L Wheeler will ensure that the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs are in airworthy condition 

based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, 

and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual) prior to 

every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as stated 

in the conditions and limitations below.

3. Extent Of Relief John L Wheeler Seeks And The Reason John L Wheeler

Seeks Relief From Section 91.121. 
14

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow 

flight operations of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs, 

which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications 

telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground 

control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning 

UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), 

John L Wheeler seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather 

than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight. 

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 

91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and 

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

be maintained since the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs are 

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 UA on the heads-up display of the GCS. 

4. Extent Of Relief John L Wheeler Seeks And The Reason John L Wheeler

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 DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs 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. John L Wheeler seeks the requested relief because 
15

without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery

powered DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs will severely 

constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that John L

Wheeler proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. 

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional operating documents, and John L Wheeler’s proposed operating 

limitations, ensure that John L Wheeler will safely operate the battery powered DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs 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.

5. Extent Of Relief John L Wheeler Seeks And The Reason John L Wheeler

Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), 

And 91.417(a) & (b). 

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

only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, John L Wheeler requests relief from 

these Sections because the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs 

do not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 

for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, John L Wheeler will use 

trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the 

UASs using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating 

documents (i.e., the John L Wheeler Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance 

Log, and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional Instruction Manual). 
16

Furthermore, John L Wheeler will document and maintain all maintenance records for the 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting John L Wheeler’s 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 John L

Wheeler to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of 

construction sites, real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UASs will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant 

benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of John L Wheeler’s proposed operation of 

the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs will be realized without 

implicating any privacy issues. 

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

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs 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 acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft 

in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and 

property in the air and on the ground. 

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, 

congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs do not require an airport to 

takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and 
17

photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic 

control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight 

operations.

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional 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, the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs produce 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 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs, while reducing the 

carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UAs are 

propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. 

By using the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs to 

perform aerial acquisitions, 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. Aside from the lack of flight crew 

members located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAs (weighing approximately 2 pounds 11 ounces and 6 pounds 7.5 ounces 

respectively, at their maximum gross weights with lengths of 16 inches and 17.3 inches 

respectively, widths of 16 inches and 17.7 inches respectively, and with no fuel on board), 
18

has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in 

the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations 

(weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length 

of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). 

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs Will Benefit The 

Economy. 

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UASs are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft 

to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs will allow United States based companies, like John L

Wheeler, 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 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

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. 

By operating the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs, 

companies such as John L Wheeler, can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, 

provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute 

to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, 

through commercial use of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 
19

UASs, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, 

state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and 

development in order to remain competitive both in the United States and abroad. 

4. There Are No Privacy Issues. 

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for 

decades, John L Wheeler’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UASs will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs will be operated only in 

compliance with operating documents (i.e., the John L Wheeler Aerial Operations Manual, 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

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

Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That 

Provided By The Rule From Which John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAs 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 and its operation, John L Wheeler’s operation of the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs meet 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 
20

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: 

(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not 

later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 

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. 

(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the determination under 

subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

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

size, weight, speed, operational capability, 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). 

(c) 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. 

In seeking this exemption, John L Wheeler submits that the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ 

and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA 

Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the 

specific operating limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UASs Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.
21

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 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. 

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UASs. 

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UASs are set forth by the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional Specifications and Data Sheet, attached hereto as Exhibit A and B. 

ii. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs 

Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UASs To 

Remain Within A Defined Operational Area. 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs may be 

operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the 

flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UASs is provided at pages 25-35 of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and pages 12-

16 and 45-50 of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manuals, attached hereto as Exhibit 

C and D. 

iii. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs 

Are Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In 

The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation. 

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UAs will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 

seconds, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs do not reacquire 

control link data from the GCS, the UAs will assume that the Control Link is lost and the 

UAs will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the 

takeoff position and shutdown. 
22

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ 

UAS are set forth at pages 27 through 29 and for the DJI Phantom 3 Professional at pages 

13 through 15 of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional User 

Manuals, attached hereto as Exhibit C and D. 

iv. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional GCS 

And Its Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional GCS and flight control software is provided at 

pages 32 through 43 of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual and pages 40 through 46

of the DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manual. DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 

3 Professional User Manuals are attached hereto as Exhibits C and D.

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UASs Are Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated 

Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer. 

John L Wheeler will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid 

airman medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs. Additionally, a safety observer will assist 

all pilots during flight time. 

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs

Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, John L Wheeler proposes to commercially operate DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs 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: DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI 
23

Phantom 3 Professional Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of 

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

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations 

for the purpose of aerial video and photography. 

3. The UAs may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground 

level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures 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. 

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) 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 other instruments. 

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

UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a 

discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant 

of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the 

conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence 

and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as 

outlined in its 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. 
24

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 UASs 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. 

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 UA 
25

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 UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as 

denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of 

agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is 

conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA.

The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to 

the Administrator upon request. 

21. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet 

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

PIC. 

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a predetermined 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 UA 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 (NOTAM) 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 level 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 14 C.F.R. part 45, 

Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 

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

and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications 
26

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. 

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation 

operations and activities at all times. 

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

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating 

persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), 

vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: 

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating 

persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The 

operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such 

protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such 

protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease 

immediately and/or; 

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the 

owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted 

permission and the 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). 

32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property

with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or 

vertical boundaries of the operational area as 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. 

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) 

And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.
27

John L Wheeler submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 

61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs unless that PIC has 

demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is 

able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS in a 

manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

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

Considering John L Wheeler’s proposed area of operations, and the operating 

limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge 

requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and 

the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI 

Phantom 3 Professional UAS, John L Wheeler submits that the additional manned 

airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the 

airmanship skills necessary for John L Wheeler’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. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

John L Wheeler will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum 

flight-hour requirements or the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS in a manner consistent with this 
28

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). 

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight 

experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an 

equivalent level of safety during John L Wheeler’s proposed operations. The Administrator 

has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with 

applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows: 

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for 

the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have 

accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of 

total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS 

pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the 

PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot 

operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the 

exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements 

to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be 

included in the 10 hours of multi-rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in 

the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the 

PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for 

currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight-hour requirements 

in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the 

skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA 

also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance 

with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, 

and experience-building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption 

to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and 
29

experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate 

distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. 

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. 

Accordingly, John L Wheeler will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC 

to operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS unless that PIC 

has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the 

PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ or DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency

maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and 

structures. 

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) 

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained 

because prior to every flight, John L Wheeler will ensure that the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ 

or DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s 

compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations 

herein. 

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific 

to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

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 the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 
30

Professional UAs will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio 

communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active 

monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with John L

Wheeler’s operation of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs 

within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety 

equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS 

equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point 

is automatically established by the UASs at ground level. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption 

Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 

11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) 

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by

14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs; (2) the limitations on the 

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

Accordingly, John L Wheeler will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAs during daylight hours in 

VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to 

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

at least 4.5 minutes. 
31

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs; the limitations on the proposed flight 

operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of 

safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as 

the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs provide audible and 

visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAs experiences low battery voltage, the 

first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at 

approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI 

Phantom Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs will descend and land 

automatically. 

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 

establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and 

operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned 

aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including 

Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief 

from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to 

those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 

11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 

11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would 

Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

In seeking this exemption, John L Wheeler 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)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met 
32

because John L Wheeler will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, 

or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and practices 

prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the John L Wheeler Aerial Operations Manual, 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

Instruction Manual). Furthermore, John L Wheeler will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UASs. 

Since the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs will be 

inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, John L Wheeler will maintain the 

equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 

91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional User 

Manuals are attached hereto as Exhibit C and D; a copy of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and 

DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Exhibit E. 

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because John L

Wheeler 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 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs will be performed by

trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly 

maintenance log. 
33

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is 

not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the 

UAS are considered. 

In consideration of John L Wheeler’s proposed operating limitations, the operating 

documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UASs, John L Wheeler submits that safety will not be adversely affected by 

granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 

91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to 

UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

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

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, John L Wheeler requests that 

the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs, which contain such safety standards that 

the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that 

established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 

91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAs for the limited purpose of 

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

compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering 
34

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 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional 

UASs, 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 Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs, 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, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & 

(b).

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules 

From Which John L Wheeler Seeks Exemption: 
35

John L Wheeler seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 

61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) &

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

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption John L Wheeler Seeks: 

This exemption will permit John L Wheeler to commercially operate an Unmanned

Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography 

over certain areas of the United States.

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support John L 

Wheeler’s Request. 

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain 

UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, John L Wheeler’s request for exemption 

may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as 

set forth above. 

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will 

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

security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness 

certification. 

As discussed in detail above, John L Wheeler will operate the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs 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, John L Wheeler 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 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 

Professional UASs commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited 
36

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 John L Wheeler to safely, efficiently, and economically 

operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs commercially 

within the NAS. 

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, John L Wheeler respectfully requests 

that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 

C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Leading Edge to operate the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 Professional UASs commercially for the purpose 

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

Dated: March 6, 2015

Respectfully submitted,

John L Wheeler

_________________________

John L Wheeler

3430 Cape Forest Drive.

Kingwood, TX 77345

Tel: (281) 806-0137
37

Appendices:

A – DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ Specifications Data Sheet

B – DJI Phantom 3 Professional Specifications Data Sheet

C – DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ Manufacturer’s User Manual

D – DJI Phantom 3 Professional Manufacturer’s User Manual

E – Monthly Maintenance Log

APPENDIX – A

DJI PHANTOM 2 VISION+ TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

John L Wheeler only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small 

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight to 

a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude and 

location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices)

1.1 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ 

1.1.1 Aircraft

1.1.1.1 Supported Battery – DJI 5200mAH LiPo Battery

1.1.1.2 Weight (Battery & Propellers Included) – 2lbs 11.810oz (1242g)

1.1.1.3 Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly) – Vertical: .8m; Horizontal: 2.5m

1.1.1.4 Max Yaw Angular Velocity - 2000/s

1.1.1.5 Max Tilt Angel - 350

1.1.1.6 Max Ascent Speed – 6m/s

1.1.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 2m/s

1.1.1.8 Max Flight Speed – 15m/s (NOT RECOMMENDED)

1.1.2 Gimbal

1.1.2.1 Working Current – Static: 750mA; Dynamic: 900mA

1.1.2.2 Control Accuracy - ±0.030

1.1.2.3 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 - 00

1.1.2.4 Maximum Angular Speed – Pitch: 900/s

1.1.3 Camera

1.1.3.1 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

1.1.3.2 Sensor Size – 1/2.3”

1.1.3.3 Effective Pixels – 14M

1.1.3.4 Resolution – 4384x3288

1.1.3.5 HD Video Recording – 1080p30 & 720p

1.1.3.6 Recording Field of View - 1100/850

1.1.4 Transmitter
38

1.1.4.1 Operating Frequency – 5.728GHz – 5.85GHz

1.1.4.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – FCC Compliance: 800m

1.1.4.3 Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) - -93dBm

1.1.4.4 Transmitter Power – FCC Compliance: 100mW

1.1.4.5 Working Voltage – 120mA@3.7V

1.1.5 Range Extender

1.1.5.1 Operating Frequency – 2412-2462MHz

1.1.5.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – 500-700m

1.1.5.3 Transmitter Power – 20dBm

1.1.5.4 Power Consumption – 2W

APPENDIX – B

DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

John L Wheeler only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small 

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight to 

a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude and 

location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices)

2.2 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

2.2.1 Aircraft

2.2.1.1 Supported Battery – PH3 4480mAh LiPo – 15.2v Battery

2.2.1.2 Weight (Battery & Propellers Included) – 2lbs 12.15oz (1280g)

2.2.1.3 Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly) – Vertical: 0.5m; Horizontal: 2.5m

2.2.1.4 Max Yaw Angular Velocity - 2000/s

2.2.1.5 Max Tilt Angel - 350

2.2.1.6 Max Ascent Speed – 5m/s

2.2.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 3m/s

2.2.1.8 Max Flight Speed – 16m/s (NOT RECOMMENDED)

2.2.2 Gimbal

2.2.2.1 Working Current – Static: 750mA; Dynamic: 900mA

2.2.2.2 Control Accuracy - ±0.030

2.2.2.3 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 to +300

2.2.2.4 Maximum Angular Speed – Pitch: 900/s

2.2.3 Camera

2.2.3.1 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

2.2.3.2 Sensor Size – 1/2.3”
39

2.2.3.3 Effective Pixels – 12.4M

2.2.3.4 Resolution – 4384x3288

2.2.3.5 HD Video Recording – 1080p30 & 720p

2.2.3.6 Recording Field of View - 1100/850

2.1.4 Remote Controller

2.2.4.1 Operating Frequency – 2.400GHz – 2.483GHz

2.2.4.2 Communication Distance (outdoor And unobstructed) – 2000m

2.2.4.3 Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) - -93dBm

2.2.4.4 Transmitter Power (EIRP) – FCC: 20dbm; CE:16dbm

2.2.4.5 Working Voltage – 1.20mA@7.4V

APENDIX – C

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ Manufacturer’s User Manual

Dowload User Manual - HERE

APPENDIX – D

DJI Phantom 3 Professional Manufacturer’s User Manual

Dowload User Manual - HERE

APPENDIX – E