August 25, 2015

Exemption No. 12582

Regulatory Docket No. FAA–2015–0587

Mr. Marc Wiercioch

GoCopter / Fiction Corp

27326 Belmont Court

Valencia, CA 91354

Dear Mr. Wiercioch:

This letter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our 

decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations of the exemption, 

including the date it ends.

By letters posted to the public docket on March 10, 2015, and July 15, 2015, you petitioned 

the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on behalf of GoCopter / Fiction Corp for an 

exemption. The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to 

conduct motion picture production and agricultural surveying.

See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA describing the proposed operations and 

the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption.

The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition 

in the Federal Register because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any 

delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner.

Airworthiness Certification

The UAS proposed by the petitioner is a DJI Flamewheel F550.
2

In accordance with the statutory criteria provided in Section 333 of Public Law 112−95 in 

reference to 49 U.S.C. § 44704, and in consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited 

operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation, the Secretary of Transportation 

has determined that this aircraft meets the conditions of Section 333. Therefore, the FAA 

finds that relief from 14 CFR part 21, Certification procedures for products and parts, 

Subpart H—Airworthiness Certificates, and any associated noise certification and testing 

requirements of part 36, is not necessary.

The Basis for Our Decision

You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection1 and closed set motion picture and 

filming. The FAA has issued grants of exemption in circumstances similar in all material 

respects to those presented in your petition. In Grants of Exemption Nos. 11062 to Astraeus 

Aerial (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 11109 to Clayco, Inc. (see Docket No. 

FAA−2014−0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 

11213 to Aeryon Labs, Inc. (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0642), the FAA found that the 

enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned aircraft (UA) with the specifications described 

by the petitioner and carrying no passengers or crew, rather than a manned aircraft of 

significantly greater proportions, carrying crew in addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA 

good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled by this exemption is in the public interest.

Having reviewed your reasons for requesting an exemption, I find that—

• They are similar in all material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213;

• The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 

11213 also apply to the situation you present; and 

• A grant of exemption is in the public interest.

Our Decision

In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. 

Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, 

delegated to me by the Administrator, GoCopter / Fiction Corp is granted an exemption from 

14 CFR §§ 61.23(a) and (c), 61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a), 91.7(a), 91.119(c), 

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

the extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform aerial data collection 

and closed set motion picture and filming. This exemption is subject to the conditions and 

limitations listed below.

 

1 Aerial data collection includes any remote sensing and measuring by an instrument(s) aboard the UA. 

Examples include imagery (photography, video, infrared, etc.), electronic measurement (precision surveying, RF 

analysis, etc.), chemical measurement (particulate measurement, etc.), or any other gathering of data by 

instruments aboard the UA.
3

Conditions and Limitations

In this grant of exemption, GoCopter / Fiction Corp is hereafter referred to as the operator.

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be 

grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the DJI 

Flamewheel F550 when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. Proposed 

operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this 

exemption.

2. Operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and television filming are 

permitted. 

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (100 miles per hour). The 

exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine 

compliance with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at 

airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the 

aircraft manufacturer.

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

(AGL). Altitude must be reported in feet AGL.

5. The UA 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 or 

U.S. driver’s license.

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within 

the visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used 

to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS 

capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times; 

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 VO can perform the duties 

required of the VO.

7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its 

operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this grant of 

exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating 

documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the 

Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and 
4

limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, 

the conditions and limitations herein 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 or any law enforcement official upon request. The 

operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension 

or amendment to this grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update 

or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then 

the operator must petition for an 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.

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

or flight characteristics, e.g., replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo 

a functional test flight prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. 

Functional test flights may only be conducted by a PIC with a VO and must remain at 

least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such 

a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property.

9. The operator is responsible for maintaining and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is 

in a condition for safe operation.

10. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre-flight inspection and determine the 

UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre-flight inspection must account for all 

potential discrepancies, e.g., inoperable components, items, or equipment. 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.

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, 

replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and 

aircraft components.

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

safety bulletins.

13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, 

commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a 

current FAA airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a 

state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal 

government. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 

14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate.
5

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the 

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

operated under this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC 

qualification flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with 

14 CFR § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs and VOs 

(training, proficiency, and experience-building) and determining the PIC’s ability to 

safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated 

under this exemption are permitted under the terms of this 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 

with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

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

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

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

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point (ARP) as 

denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not 

denoted with an ARP, the center of the airport symbol as denoted on the current 

FAA-published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s 

management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption 

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

to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

17. 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.

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

pre-determined location within the private or controlled-access property.

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

20. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast 

weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the 

intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minutes or with the reserve 

power recommended by the manufacturer if greater.

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). All 

operations shall be conducted in accordance with an ATO-issued COA. The 

exemption holder may apply for a new or amended COA if it intends to conduct 

operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the attached COA.
6

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

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

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

be as large as practicable.

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and 

any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the 

PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. 

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

official upon request.

24. The UA must remain clear and give way to all manned aviation operations and 

activities at all times. 

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

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

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 in a manner ensuring the safety 

of nonparticipating persons; and

b. The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission 

for operating closer to those objects 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.

The PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons are not considered 

nonparticipating persons under this exemption.

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

permission from the property owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

28. 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.
7

If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and 

television filming and production, the following additional conditions and limitations apply.

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) 

as documented in this grant of exemption.

30. At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this 

exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight Standards 

District Office (FSDO) with jurisdiction over the area of proposed filming. The 3-day 

notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities 

must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights;

b. Name and phone number of the operator for the UAS aerial filming conducted 

under this grant of exemption;

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

the UAS;

d. Make, model, and serial or N−Number of UAS to be used;

e. Name and certificate number of UAS PICs involved in the aerial filming;

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

and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the list of those 

who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request;

g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and

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

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

essential to accomplish the operation.

31. Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating persons 

consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, as specified in the 

exemption holder’s MPTOM.

Unless otherwise specified in this grant of exemption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS 

operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, 

parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.
8

This exemption terminates on August 31, 2017, unless sooner superseded or rescinded.

Sincerely,

/s/

John S. Duncan

Director, Flight Standards Service

Enclosures
Marc Wiercioch

GoCopter / Fiction Corp

27326 Belmont Ct.

Valencia, CA 91354

818.415.7911

marc.camera@gmail.com

www.gocopter.net

For purpose of this Petition, the UAV discussed will be referred to as „GoCopter‟. 

Objective

I am requesting permission from the FAA to legally operate a UAV in a profession capacity for motion 

picture production and agricultural surveying.

Operation on a motion picture production will be permitted and supervised by a Fire Safety Officer (FSO).

Operations for agricultural surveying will be conducted over private property for the purpose of cinematic 

documentation and multi-spectroscopic photo capture. I also request special permission to operate over golf courses

during controlled condition for cinematic documentation. This will be conducted with permission from the course 

manager and clear of players.

I can confidently provide adequate proof that I meet the requirements per FAA Modernization and Reform 

Act of 2012, Public Law 112-95 FEB. 14, 2012, Section 333. My experience as a Certified Private Pilot, a RC 

hobbyist and a Professional cameraman, ideally suits my desire to operate as a professional UAV pilot in the United 

States National Airspace System. 

Biography

1985 Began operating RC vehicles, cars and planes, as a hobbyist.

Attached letter of recommendation as RC hobbyist

1990 Acquired private pilot certificate (SEL)

Certificate # 569733346

Current flight physical #1998091195

2001 Began working in the Motion Picture Industry as a cameraman. 

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1466777/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

2003 Qualified to work as a Union cameraman, attended all of the industry safety classes required by Contract

 Services Administration Trust Fund (CSATF)

IATSE Local 600, member # 12179

2013 Built and began to operate the GoCopter, multi-rotor aerial photography platform. 

UAV description and performance characteristics

GoCopter dimensions

Diameter: 23 inches grounded, 31 inches flying

Height: 10 inches

Weight: 6 lbs.

The Airframe is a stock Flame wheel 550, manufactured by DJI Innovations. It consists of 6 brushless 

motors, 6 plastic props and 6 ESC (electronic speed controls). The flight controller is a Naza-M V1/V2

manufactured my DJI Innovations. The flight controller and ESCs are powered by a 3S LiPo 5000mA battery.

The transmitter and receiver are manufactured by JR/Spectrum utilizing DMS 2 Technology. DMS creates 

a unique bind between Tx and Rx on the 2.4ghz bandwidth. During the binding process, DuaLink ensures a secure 

RF link by scanning for two frequencies and locking them between the Tx and Rx. 
Mission specific payload consists of a GoPro camera and stabilizing gimbal or multi-spectroscopic look 

down camera. 

A 5.8ghz video transmitter outputs a reference video signal to a base station for framing and system

monitoring purposes. Both components are powered by an additional 3S LiPo 1350mA battery.

Pre-flight Operations

Upon removal from the travel case, I attach the landing gear and camera gimbal. Pre-flight inspection 

includes; props are secure and undamaged, all fasteners are tight and wires are secure and undamaged. The camera 

gimbal, camera and two batteries are mounted and secured.

Warm-up Procedure

In order to establish Tx/Rx link, the Tx is powered up, followed by Rx and Fight controller. Solid light on 

Rx indicates successful RF link. During the flight controller‟s warm up sequence, a series of light cycles are 

observed to confirm the flight controller is operating properly. Blinking yellow light on flight controller indicates 

warm up. Rapid blinking green light indicates flight controller is warm. Blinking Red lights indicate the process of 

acquiring GPS lock. Blinking green lights indicate ready for flight. An interface via laptop is attached to the flight 

controller to check sensor parameters and conduct calibrations. Following successful calibrations, the camera 

gimbal and video transmitter are powered up and tested. After all systems are powered and calibrated, a motor test 

and low level hover is conducted to test weight and balance.

A step-by-step checklist is present for every GoCopter flight and is included in this file.

Pre-flight discussion

Film production - A discussion will occur involving the Director, Cinematographer, FSO and Assistant 

Director regarding the scripted shot. We will point out weather conditions, obstacles and safety procedures. A set 

of flight parameters regarding Altitude, speed of flight, length of flight, distance to be traveled and personnel 

required to be in the immediate vicinity will be determined. All this information will be announced during a 

companywide safety meeting.

Agriculture and Golf course survey – I will confirm with management I have permission to fly over their 

property. We will point out weather conditions, obstacles and safety procedures. A set of flight parameters 

regarding Altitude, speed of flight, length of flight, distance to be traveled and personnel required to be in the 

immediate vicinity will be determined. 

Flight

Each flight will be conducted in a timely manner and conscious of any changing conditions. 
Exemptions to Rules

§45.21 Nationality and Registration Marks: General

I request an exception from displaying registration marks in lieu of not requiring an airworthiness 

certificate. As an alternative, I have affixed a label containing „instructions if found‟ and „contact information‟. 

This will provide the most accurate and efficient means of contact in the event of a loss, property damage or bodily 

injury.

§61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command.

Exemption:

As a private pilot, I request the permission to receive compensation for providing a service to Film and Television 

production companies, the service being, to operate a UAV with the intent to capture video or still images. The 

advantage of using the GoCopter is to provide a low impact alternative to low altitude aerial photography. By 

accepting compensation for this service, I am able to maintain a professional level of availability and equipment 

maintenance resulting in a sustainable serves in a free market environment. 

§91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General.

Exemption:

I request permission to conduct low altitude UAV flights from 0 to 400 feet AGL. The majority of 

GoCopter flights take place between ground level and 100 feet, bridging the gap between Stedicam, dolly, crane and 

helicopter shots. The GoCopter, as a film making tool, is intended to position the camera higher than a human 

operator, lower than a helicopter and longer distance than a crane. The GoCopter is not designed nor intended to 

travel further than unassisted line of sight will allow. Maintaining a low altitude keeps me well out of active 

airspace, noise nuisance and on lookers. 

§91.121 Altimeter settings.

Exemption:

The GoCopter is not equipped with a visual altimeter, therefore its altitude is determined by visual 

reference by maintaining constant line of sight during the flight. My altitude is determined by maintaining good 

visual clearance from participating building, man-made and natural objects and people. An addition feature built 

into the flight controller limits the radial distance from my established home base. 

§91.405 Maintenance required.

§91.407 Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration.

§91.409 Inspections.

§91.417 Maintenance records.

Exemptions:

Due do the lack of qualified maintenance inspector for this type of airframe, I request exception from the 

required inspection, maintenance and recording by an independent inspector. I intend to personally maintain and 

service the GoCopter per manufacturer specification as detailed in the respective systems‟ manuals. This includes 

visual inspections, software updates and regular calibrations. I consider myself an authorized service person of the 

GoCopter due to the 25+ hours of research, building, testing and flying of the GoCopter system. The above stated 

maintenance will be conducted during every prep, pre-flight check and storage.
Federal Registry Summary

§45.21 Nationality and Registration Marks: General

Exemption:

I request an exception from displaying registration marks in lieu of not requiring an airworthiness 

certificate. 

§61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command.

Exemption:

I request the permission to receive compensation for providing a service to Film and Television production 

companies, the service being, to operate a UAV with the intent to capture video or still images. 

§91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General.

Exemption:

I request permission to conduct low altitude UAV flights from 0 to 400 feet AGL. 

§91.121 Altimeter settings.

Exemption:

The GoCopter is not equipped with a visual altimeter, therefore its altitude is determined by visual 

reference by maintaining constant line of sight during the flight

§91.405 Maintenance required.

§91.407 Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration.

§91.409 Inspections.

§91.417 Maintenance records.

Exemptions:

I intend to personally maintain and service the GoCopter per manufacturer specification as detailed in the 

respective systems‟ manuals. 
GoCopter Checklist

Assembly

Secure landing gear

Secure Props

Secure camera gimbal

Connect power cable

Connect Aux cable

Install camera in gimbal

Connect video cable

Check voltage on batteries: flight, accessory and monitor

Power-up

Attach flight battery and volt meter

Attach accessory battery and volt meter

Attach monitor battery and volt meter

Power on transmitter

Connect flight battery

Confirm power up is initiated 

Hold during warm up cycle

Confirm Tx/Rx link

Confirm Flight controller is ready

Conduct compass calibration

Conduct parameter calibration

Conduct voltage calibration

Confirm GPS lock

Power up camera

Confirm settings

Connect accessory battery

Hold for self-calibration

Power up monitor

Confirm solid image

Flight

Begin camera record

Start motors

Take-off

Adjust throttle to hover

Release control sticks and confirm steady hoover and position hold
Landing

Cut camera

Disconnect flight battery

Power down Transmitter

Disconnect accessory battery

Power down monitor

Confirm all batteries are at or above nominal voltage

Break down

Remove batteries

Remove camera

Remove gimbal

Remove landing gear

System status

System start and self-check...

Warm-up cycle

Warm up complete

Acquiring GPS lock < 5 satellites

 = 5 satellites

 = 6 satellites

GPS lock > 6 satellites

ready for flight

Errors

Compass error

Mid-point error

Calibration error
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MEDICAL CERTIFICATE SECOND CLASS 

This certifies that (Full name and address): 

MARC WIERCIOCH 

27326 Belmont Ct 

Valencia CA 91354 USA 

. j1 Date of Birth . I Height-j Weight I Hair j Eyes I Sex 

l-- .:h I 203 I BROWN I BROWN I M 

\ has met the medical standards presaibed in part 67, Federal Aviation 

~ Re ulations. for this dassof Medieal Certificate. · 

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Date of Examination I Examiner's Designation No. 

12/03/2014 09521-

1 Sign:r.. =z · · J-~ ·i41 tJ 111 Typed Nam~ .. ,. 

w EDWARD G SHORE. MD 

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NJplicantiD: 1998091195 I Control No.: 100006706040 

· FAA Form 11500-9 (9-<18) Supen;edes l'revWs Edtion NSN: OO~-OQ..670-7002 

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CFRs

§45.23 Display of marks; general.

(a) Each operator of an aircraft must display on that aircraft marks consisting of the Roman capital letter 

“N” (denoting United States registration) followed by the registration number of the aircraft. Each suffix 

letter used in the marks displayed must also be a Roman capital letter.

(b) When marks include only the Roman capital letter “N” and the registration number is displayed on 

limited, restricted or light-sport category aircraft or experimental or provisionally certificated aircraft, the 

operator must also display on that aircraft near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station, in letters 

not less than 2 inches nor more than 6 inches high, the words “limited,” “restricted,” “light-sport,” 

“experimental,” or “provisional,” as applicable.

§61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command.

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (h) of this section, no person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in 

command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or 

hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft.

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command 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.

§91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General.

Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft below the following altitudes:

(a) Anywhere. An altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the 

surface.

(b) Over congested areas. Over any congested area of a city, town, or settlement, or over any open air assembly of persons, an 

altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet of the aircraft.

(c) Over other than congested areas. An altitude of 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas. In 

those cases, the aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure.

(d) Helicopters, powered parachutes, and weight-shift-control aircraft. If the operation is conducted without hazard to persons or 

property on the surface—

(1) A helicopter may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed in paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, provided each person 

operating the helicopter complies with any routes or altitudes specifically prescribed for helicopters by the FAA; and

(2) A powered parachute or weight-shift-control aircraft may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed in paragraph (c) of 

this section.

§91.121 Altimeter settings.

(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; or

(2) At or above 18,000 feet MSL, to 29.92′′ Hg.

(b) The lowest usable flight level is determined by the atmospheric pressure in the area of operation as shown in the following table:

Current altimeter setting Lowest usable flight level

29.92 (or higher) 180

29.91 through 29.42 185

29.41 through 28.92 190

28.91 through 28.42 195

28.41 through 27.92 200

27.91 through 27.42 205
27.41 through 26.92 210

(c) To convert minimum altitude prescribed under §§91.119 and 91.177 to the minimum flight level, the pilot shall take the flight level 

equivalent of the minimum altitude in feet and add the appropriate number of feet specified below, according to the current reported 

altimeter setting:

Current altimeter setting Adjustment factor

29.92 (or higher) None

29.91 through 29.42 500

29.41 through 28.92 1,000

28.91 through 28.42 1,500

28.41 through 27.92 2,000

27.91 through 27.42 2,500

27.41 through 26.92

§91.405 Maintenance required.

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

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;

§91.407 Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration.

(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; and

§91.409 Inspections.

(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.

No inspection performed under paragraph (b) of this section may be substituted for any inspection required by this paragraph unless 

it is performed by a person authorized to perform annual inspections and is entered as an “annual” inspection in the required 

maintenance records.

§91.417 Maintenance records.

(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)(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.

(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.
7/16/2015 Regulations.gov ­ Other Document

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Marc Wiercioch, Fictioncorp - Additional Information

This Other document was issued by the Federal Aviation

Administration (FAA)

For related information, Open Docket Folder

Content

In response to a letter dated June 26,2015 No.FAA­2015­0587

bullet point 1 and 4 have been addressed in the previously

attached pdf.

In the Public Interest

Three characteristics of the GoCopter (UAV) system that

represent the most important aspects of public interest are

weight, payload and pollution.

Given the small size of the GoCopter, it can be categorized as a

hobby aircraft or toy. Its gross flight weight of 6lbs. and relative

slow speeds puts its potential property damage in the realm of a

baseball or golf ball. The difference being that the GoCopter is

under an experienced pilots control.

The strongest aspect regarding public interest and safety is the

payload of the GoCopter. There is no pilot or passenger on

board, greatly reducing the loss of life in case of an accident.

The GoCopter is also lacking any type of flammable fuel that can

result in a fire or exposure to hazardous materials.

The environmental impact of the GoCopter is very significant,

considering it does not use any fossil fuels for power or

lubrication. Its power source is a Lipo battery that is

rechargeable. Lipo batteries can be neutralized and chemically

altered to a type of hydrate salt for environmentally safe

disposal.

Exemptions to Rules

45.21 Nationality and Registration Marks: General

I request an exception from displaying registration marks in

lieu of not requiring an airworthiness certificate.

Equal Level of Safety:

As an alternative, I have affixed a label containing instructions if

found and contact information. This will provide the most

accurate and efficient means of contact in the event of a loss,

property damage or bodily injury.

Comment Now!

ID: FAA­2015­0587­0004

Document Information

Date Posted:

Jul 15, 2015

Show More Details

Submitter Information

Submitter Name:

Marc Wiercioch

Mailing Address:

27326 Belmont Ct.

City:

Valencia

Country:

United States

ZIP/Postal Code:

91354

Comments

0

Docket Information

This document is contained in

FAA­2015­0587

Related Dockets:

None

Related RINs:

None

Related Documents:

Comments Received*
7/16/2015 Regulations.gov ­ Other Document

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61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command.

Exemption:

As a private pilot, I request the permission to receive

compensation for providing a service to Film and Television

production companies, the service being, to operate a UAV with

the intent to capture video or still images. The advantage of

using the GoCopter is to provide a low impact alternative to low

altitude aerial photography. By accepting compensation for this

service, I am able to maintain a professional level of availability

and equipment maintenance resulting in a sustainable serves in

a free market environment.

Equal Level of Safety:

As Pilot in Command, I would have the authority and financial

tools to take any and all precautions to insure the safe

operations of the GoCopter

91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General.

Exemption:

I request permission to conduct low altitude UAV flights from 0

to 400 feet AGL. The majority of GoCopter flights take place

between ground level and 100 feet, bridging the gap between

Stedicam, dolly, crane and helicopter shots. The GoCopter, as a

film making tool, is intended to position the camera higher than a

human operator, lower than a helicopter and longer distance than

a crane. The GoCopter is not designed nor intended to travel

further than unassisted line of sight will allow.

Equal Level of Safety:

Maintaining a low altitude keeps the GoCopter well out of active

airspace, noise nuisance and obstacles. It will also reduce the

time to conduct an emergency landing.

91.121 Altimeter settings.

Exemption:

The GoCopter is not equipped with a visual altimeter;

therefore its altitude is determined by visual reference by

maintaining constant line of sight during the flight. My altitude is

determined by maintaining good visual clearance from

participating buildings, man­made and natural objects and

people.

Equal Level of Safety:

An addition feature built into the flight controller limits the radial

distance from my established home base including distance and

altitude.

91.405 Maintenance required.

91.407 Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance,

rebuilding, or alteration.

91.409 Inspections.

91.417 Maintenance records.

Exemptions:

Due do the lack of qualified maintenance inspector for this type

of airframe, I request exception from the required inspection,

maintenance and recording by an independent inspector. I intend

to personally maintain and service the GoCopter per

manufacturer specification as detailed in the respective systems

manuals. This includes visual inspections, software updates and

regular calibrations. I consider myself an authorized service

This count refers to the total

comment/submissions received on

this document, as of 11:59 PM

yesterday. Note: Agencies review

all submissions, however some

agencies may choose to redact, or

withhold, certain submissions (or

portions thereof) such as those

containing private or proprietary

information, inappropriate

language, or duplicate/near

duplicate examples of a mass­mail

campaign. This can result in

discrepancies between this count

and those displayed when

conducting searches on the Public

Submission document type. For

specific information about an

agency’s public submission policy,

refer to its website or the Federal

Register document.

Marc Wiercioch ­

Exemption/Rulemkaking

U.S. DOT/FAA ­ Request for

Additional Information

Marc Wiercioch, Fictioncorp ­

Petition for Exemption

*
7/16/2015 Regulations.gov ­ Other Document

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person of the GoCopter due to the 25+ hours of research,

building, testing and flying of the GoCopter system. The above

stated maintenance will be conducted during every prep, preflight check and storage.

Equal Level of Safety:

My level of maintenance is equal or greater to the manufacturers

level of compliance by following the manufacturers printed

instructions and procedures. In addition to my check list, the

flight controller has built in safe guards and indicators to help

keep the GoCopter system in good airworthiness condition.