Sept 10, 2015

U.S. Department of Transportation 

Docket Management System

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Washington, DC 20590

Re: Petition of Leading Edge Aviation Services, for an Exemption Pursuant to Section 333 of 

the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

To Whom it May Concern:

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 ("Reform Act") and 

14 C.F.R. Part 11, Leading Edge Aviation Services (Leading Edge) hereby applies for an exemption 

from the Federal Aviation Regulations ("FARs") identified below to allow commercial operation ofsmall 

unmanned aerial vehicles (i.e., "small unmanned aircraft" or "DJI Inspire One”) for conducting aerial 

photography and videography for the real estate and other industry as well as property mapping and

inspections.

This petition for exemption addresses pertinent FAA FAR’s and CFR’s as well as, but not 

limited to, these accompanying Leading Edge’s documents.

1. Flight Operations Manual and;

2. Operations Manuals

(collectively referred to as Operations Manuals")

3. User Guide and;

4. User Manual

(collectively referred to as "Manufacturer's Manual").1

Leading Edge submits these as well as other Leading Edge supporting materials asconfidential 

documents pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35 (b), as the materials contain confidential commercial and/or 

proprietary information that the Leading Edge has not and will not share with others. Additionally, these 

documents contain operating conditions and procedures that are not generally available to the public and 

are protected from release under the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. §552 etseq.

 _______________

1The term "Manufacturer's Manual" also includes all relevant manufacturer publications, including, but 

not limited to: operations and flight manuals, user guides, component maintenance manuals, pilot 

training manuals, service information letters and, safety/service bulletins).
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Sept 10, 2015

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This Petition is organized as follows:

I. Petitioner

II. Description of Proposed Operations

A. Real Estate Aerial Photography, Videography and Inspection Service

III. Relevant Statutory Authority

IV. Leading Edge Proposed DJI Inspire 1 Operations Meet the Requirements of Section 

333 ofthe Reform Act

A. Approval is Warranted Based on the DJI Inspire 1’s Size, Weight, Speed, and

Operational Capability

B. Approval is Warranted Based on the Operational Restrictions Set Forth in the Operations 

Manuals

V. Regulations From Which Exemption is Requested

A. 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H – Airworthiness Certificates and 14 C.F.R. § 

91.203(a)(1) B. 14 C.F.R. Part 27 Airworthiness Standards: Normal CategoryRotorcraft

C.14 C.F.R. §§ 91.9(c), 45.23(b) and 45.27(a): Aircraft Marking and Identification 

Requirements D. 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2); 91.417(a) and (b): 

Maintenance Inspections

E. 14 C.F.R. Part 61, 14 C.F.R. § 61.3, 14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations

F. 14 C.F.R. § 91.7(a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness

G. 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual in the Aircraft and 14 C.F.R. § 91.203(a) 

and (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration

H. 14 C.F.R. § 91.103: Preflight Action

I. 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a): Flight Instruction

J. 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(c): Minimum Safe Altitudes

K. 14 C.F.R. § 91.121: Altimeter Settings

L. 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions

VI. Drug and Alcohol Program

VII. Public Interest

VIII. Privacy

IX. Federal Register Summary

X. Conclusion
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Sept 10, 2015

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I. DESCRIPTION OF PETITIONER

Leading Edge Aviation is based in East Windsor, CT and is an Aerial Photography & Videography 

company. The Company specializes in real estate and property mapping and inspections and provides aerial 

video capture services for a verity of Connecticut industries. Jackson Palauskas has been flying UAs i.e. 

Radio Controlled Helicopters for more than a decade as a hobby without an incident or the loss of any 

aircraft. Steve and Jackson Palauskas are a great farther and son team with Steve working as the 

company’s lead UA pilot, “PIC”; Steve is an Instrument Rated, Commercial Pilot Fixed Wing with over 

1000hr. Jacksons provides his high level skills in multiple areas of operations of the company including;

backup PIC, VO and Video/Photo editor. With 30 years’ of combined experience of piloting UAS as a 

family hobby, the father and son team duo are now ready to become the Leading Edge Aviation 

commercial services provider of aerial photography, videography and inspection in the Hartford County 

area once their 333 exemption has been Granted by the FAA. 

Leading Edge Aviation will provide Real Estate photography and videography, as well as tailored videos 

for business. The company business will be the sole source of income for the family team after receiving 

their 333 exemption grant. 

The contact information for Petitioner is asfollows: 

Steven C Palauskas

Leading Edge Aviation Services

136 Tromley Rd

East Windsor, CT 06088

Phone: 860-729-6408

Email: steve@leadingedgeaviationservices.com

II. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED OPERATION

Leading Edge seeks an exemption pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act to operate the DJI Inspire 1

for the proposed operations discussed below. DJI Inspire 1 operations will occur under tightly controlled

conditions on private property where Leading Edge has received permission to operate from the landowner, 

controlleror authorized representatives. The proposed DJI Inspire 1 operations will be conducted in 

accordance with the conditions and limitations of this Petition for Exemption and Leading Edge’s

Operations Manuals. As detailed in Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals, DJI Inspire 1 operations will be 

limited to daytime VFR conditions, within visual line-of-sight ("VLOS") of the operator, in uncontrolled 

airspace, and will occur at least 5 nmaway from an airport. Moreover, Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals 

incorporate redundant safeguards to assure that the aircraft does not travel outside the controlled area of DJI 

Inspire 1 operations, including GPS"geo- fencing" technologies.

A. Real Estate Aerial Photography, Videography and Inspection Service

Leading Edge seeks to use the DJI Inspire 1 for all of its aerial photography and videography for 

the real estate and other industry as well as property mapping and inspections.
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Company has tailored its operations to meet the requirements established by the FAA in prior grantsof 

exemptions authorizing the commercial use of UAS in general photography and videography and the 

same for the production of video in the real estate industry including:

 Trudeau, Realtor® (Exemption No. 11138)

 Alon Sicherman (Exemption No. 11728)

 Sokoler Medley (Exemption No. 11341)

 Helinet Aviation Services, LLC (Exemption No. 11160)

 Dronair Solutions (Exemption No. 11671)

UAS real estate and industrial photography and videography operations will be conducted on 

private propertyin a controlled area, away from spectators and persons not involved in the video 

production. UAS video photography will be conducted during daylight hours, VFR conditions, at 

altitudes below 400' AGL. As set forth below, Company’s operations provide a superior level of safety 

and quality compared to performing the same filming work using conventional fixed-wing aircraft or

helicopters.

Traditional methods of real estate video production and inspection of structures, expose 

videographer-inspectors to higher risks of serious injuries, or death. Videographer-inspectors need to 

climb roof tops or otherwise perform elevated work, which exposes them to the risk of dangerous falls, 

electrocution or other work related extremes. In addition, depending on the nature of the video needed 

and inspection, proximity to equipment, and other mechanical hazards associated with industrial sites 

and construction facilities often involves a risk of exposure to hazardous. The use of DJI Inspire 1’s 

mitigates these hazards and is ultimately a much safer method of performing these and most other 

types of inspections.

DJI Inspire 1 real estate video production and inspection of structures is much safer than

traditional manned aircraft performing the same function. Conventional operations using rotorcraft and

fixed-wing aircraft in low level operations present very high risks with vehicles weighing thousands of

pounds, carrying passengers and large amounts of fuel. It is important to note that the use of small DJI 

Inspire 1 in this area will not only be safer and more cost effective, but the quality of collected data and

information is far superior.

DJI Inspire 1 real estate video production and inspection of structures is more reliable, and allows

for the collection, dissemination, and storage of visual content and other sensory data with greater

precision and duration. DJI Inspire 1’s are also capable of accessing finish and structural quality 

through the use of video and inspecting areas that would otherwise be inaccessible to humans and 

would be impossible to be completed with conventional aircraft or other inspection methods.
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Sept 10, 2015

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III. RELEVANT STATUTORY AUTHORITY

This Petition for Exemption is submitted pursuant to Section 333(a) through (c) of the FAA

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 ("Reform Act"). Congress has directed the FAA "to safely 

accelerate the integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system." 

Pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act, the FAA Administrator is to permit unmanned aircraft 

systems to operate in the National Air Space ("NAS") where it is safe to do so based on the following 

considerations:

● The UAS’s size, weight, speed and operational capability;

● Operation of the UAS in close proximity to airports and populated areas; and

● Operation of the UAS within the visual line of sight of the operator.

Additionally, the FAA Administrator has general authority to grant exemptions from the agency's 

safety regulations and minimum standards when the Administrator decides a requested exemption isin 

the public interest. See 49 U.S.C. § 106(f) (defining the authority of the Administrator); 49 U.S.C. § 

44701(f) (permitting exemptions from §§ 44701(a), (b) and §§ 44702 – 44716, et seq.). A party 

requesting an exemption must explain the reasons why the exemption: (1) would benefit the public as a 

whole, and (2) would not adversely affect safety (or how it would provide a level of safety at least 

equal to the existing rules). See 14 C.F.R. § 11.81 (petitions for exemption).

IV. REAL ESTATE SHOWCASES’ PROPOSED DJI Inspire 1 OPERATIONS MEET

THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 333 OF THE REFORMACT

The small DJI Inspire 1 operations proposed by Leading Edge in this Petition for Exemption

qualify for expedited approval pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act as each of the statutory

criteria and relevant factors are satisfied.

A. Approval is Warranted Based on the DJI Inspire 1’s Size, Weight, Speed, and

Operational Capability

A Grant of Exemption is appropriate for operations conducted using the DJI Inspire 1’s due to itssize 

weight, speed, and operational capability.
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 The DJI Inspire 1’s have been approved for use in prior Section 333 Grants of Exemption from the

FAA.2

 The DJI Inspire 1’s weigh less than 55 pounds, including payload.

 The DJI Inspire 1’s will not be flown at a ground speed in excess of 50 knots.

 Altitude information will be generated by equipment onboard the UA as specified using GPS 

triangulation, digitally encoded barometric altimeter, radio altimeter, or any combinationthereof. 

This information will be transmitted to the pilot via telemetric data feed.

 The DJI Inspire 1’s will have system redundancies and independent functionality to ensure the

overall safety and predictability of the system. If connection to the remote control or ground 

controlstation is lost, failsafe systems will permit the DJI Inspire 1 to return to a predetermined 

location and safely land without injury or damage.

 The radio frequencies used for operations and control of the DJI Inspire 1 comply 

with the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") and other appropriate

government oversight agency requirements. The operating frequency for DJI Inspire 

1’s are 2.4 GHz.

If the same operations were conducted using a helicopter, the aircraft's take-off weight would likelyexceed 

6,000 pounds carrying a pilot, camera operator and VO-visual observer- navigator. The difference in 

weight between DJI Inspire 1’s and a helicopter significantly reduces the potential harm to the participating

and non- participating individuals or property in the event of an accident or incident. In addition, the risk to

the onboard pilot and camera operator is eliminated.

2See e.g., Grant of Exemption to Shotover Camera Systems L.P. (Exemption No. 11159); Grant of 

Exemption to VDOS Global, LLC (Exemption No. 11112); Grant of Exemption to Low Country RC, Corp. 

(Exemption No. 11184); Grant of Exemption to Alan Purwin (Exemption No. 11161); Grant of Exemption 

to Helinet Aviation Services (Exemption No. 11160); Grant of Exemption to Total

Safety U.S., Inc. (Exemption No. 11156).
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Sept 10, 2015

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B. Approval is Warranted Based on the Operational Restrictions Set Forth inLeading 

Edge’s Operations Manuals

Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals and the Manufacturer's Manual for the selected DJI Inspire 1’s 

will contain all the procedures and limitations necessary to safely and successfully perform theoperations 

specified in this Petition for Exemption. To assist the FAA in making a safety assessment ofLeading 

Edge’s proposed operations, below is a summary of operational limitations and conditions that Leading 

Edge will adhere to, and which will ensure an equivalent or higher level of safety to operations conducted

under current regulatory guidelines:

1. The DJI Inspire 1 weighs less than 55 pounds, fully loaded.

2. 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 operation.

3. All DJI Inspire 1’s operated under the Grant of Exemption will be identified by serial

number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification (N-Number) 

markingsin accordance with

14 FR part 45, Subpart C. Markings will be as large as practicable.

4. Minimum crew for each flight operation will consist of a pilot, who will be Pilot- inCommand 

("PIC") of the DJI Inspire One, and one or more Visual Observers ("Observer") as necessary to

safely conduct the mission.

5. PICs shall possess at least a Sport or Private Pilot's Certificate shall possess at least a current 

Class III Medical Certificate and/or a valid and current driver’s license issued within the United 

States. The PIC will also meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 C.F.R 61.56 in an 

aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate. 

6. The UA shall be operated within VLOS of the PIC and Observer at all times. The PIC must use 

human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC's FAAissued medical certificate.

7. The PIC and Observer designated for any operation will be able to communicate verbally atall 

times.

8. Electronic messaging or texting will not be permitted during flight operations.

9. The additional requirements identified in the Grant of Exemption shall be added to the Leading 

Edge’s Operations Manuals.
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The Operations Manuals will be maintained and made available to the Administrator upon request. If 

a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in the Grant of Exemption and Leading 

Edge’s Operations Manuals, the conditions and limitations in the Grant of Exemption shall take 

precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, Leading Edge shall follow the procedures outlined in

their Operations Manuals.

10. Leading Edge may update or revise its Operations Manuals. Revisions will be tracked and a

revised copy of the Manual will be provided to the Administrator upon request. Leading Edge will also 

present an updated and revised Operations Manuals if it petitions for extension or amendment to its

Grant of Exemption. If an update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA grants the

exemption, Leading Edge will seek an amendment to its Grant of Exemption. Leading Edge will 

contact the FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) if questions arise regarding updates or revisions 

to the operating documents.

11. Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals and its Grant of Exemption will be available to the PIC at

the ground control station anytime the DJI Inspire 1 is operating.

12. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a DJI Inspire 1 flight unless (considering wind and

forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly to the first intended point of landing, and

assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 10 minutes.

13. Maximum total flight time for each operational flight using the DJI Inspire 1 will be limited to

40 minutes or the amount of time the DJI Inspire 1 can be flown and still maintain a reserve battery 

power of no less than 25%, whichever occurs first.

14. Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL and will never enter 

navigable controlled airspace without prior written authorization and approval from the FAA. In the 

event the structure being inspected exceeds 400 feet AGL, the DJI Inspire 1 will not be operated

more than 100 feet above the highest point on the structure, and no more than 50 feet horizontally 

fromthe structure.

15. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons. (persons 

other than the PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential personnel), vessels, vehicles, and structures 

unless:

a) Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons fromthe 

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;
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b) The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller ofsuch 

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, VO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an 

undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

16. 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 three statute miles from the PIC.

17. The UA may not operate within 5 nm 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 

Leading Edge COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management will be made available

to the Administrator upon request.

18. Prior to each flight the PIC shall inspect the DJI Inspire 1 to confirm that it is in a condition

safe for flight. The pre-flight inspection will account for all discrepancies, e.g. inoperable

components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating 

documents. The PIC shall not operate the DJI Inspire 1 if the inspection reveals a condition that 

affects the safe operation of the DJI Inspire 1 until the necessary maintenance has been performed 

and the DJI Inspire 1 is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The ground control station shall 

be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alternations must be properly 

documented in the DJI Inspire 1 records as required by Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals.

19. Leading Edge will carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements

in accordance with the Operations Manuals. Maintenance, inspection, and alterations will be noted

in the DJI Inspire 1 records, including total time in service, description of work accomplished, and

the signature of the authorized person returning the DJI Inspire 1 to service.

20. Any DJI Inspire 1 that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the DJI 

Inspire 1 operation or flight characteristics (e.g., replacement of a flight critical component) must 

undergo a functional test flight in accordance with Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals. The PIC 

whoconducts the functional test flight must make an entryin the DJI Inspire 1 aircraft records of

the flight. The requirements and procedures for a functional test flight and DJI Inspire 1 record 

entry shall be included in the Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals.
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21. The DJI Inspire 1 will be operated and maintained according to the Manufacturer's Manuals

and any required manufacturer Safety/Service Bulletins.

22. Prior to the operation, a Mission Packet will be created in accordance with the requirements 

on Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals.

23. Leading Edge will obtain an Air Traffic Organization ("ATO") issued Certificate of Waiver

or Authorization, otherwise known as a COA, prior to conducting any operations under this Grant

of Exemption. A NOTAM will be issued as required by the COA. All operations will be conducted

in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace,

altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

24. All required permissions and permits will be obtained from territorial, state, county or city 

jurisdictions, including local law enforcement, fire or other appropriate governmental agencies.

25. If the DJI Inspire 1 loses communication with the pilot, it will have the capability to return 

toa pre- determined location within the operational area and land safely.

26. Contingency plans will be in place to safely terminate flight if there is a loss of 

communication between the PIC and the Observer.

27. The DJI Inspire 1 will have the capability to safely abort flight in the case of

unpredicted obstacles or emergencies.

28. PICs and Observers will have at least a current Class III Medical Certificate.

29. Prior to conducting operations for filming, the PIC will have accumulated and logged, in a

manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51(b), a minimum of 200 flight cycles and 25 hours total time 

as a UAS rotorcraft pilot and at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a similar SAP-UAS type 

platform. This requirement can be achieved by flights conducted and logged as a hobbyist.

30. Prior to conducting operations for filming, the PIC will have accumulated and logged, in a 

manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51(b), a minimum of 54 CFR §61.51(b), a minimum of 10 

logged hours as DJI Inspire 1 pilot operating the make and model of DJI Inspire 1 to be utilized

for operations under the exemption and thirty take-offs and thirty landing in the preceding 90

days.
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31. Operations shall occur during daytime VFR Meteorological Conditions; flights under 

Special Visual Flight Rules ("SVFR") shall not be conducted.

32. The UA shall remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned operations and 

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

parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.).

33. DJI Inspire 1 Operations under Instrument Flight Rules, at night, or beyond VLOS are

prohibited.

34. The DJI Inspire 1’s will not be operated from an elevated platform or moving device / vehicle.

35. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control 

of the UA will comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate 

government oversight agency requirements.

V. REGULATIONS FROM WHICH EXEMPTION ISREQUESTED

The Federal Aviation Act expressly grants the FAA the authority to issue exemptions. This 

statutory authority, by its terms, includes exempting civil aircraft, as the term is defined under § 40101 of 

the Act, including DJI Inspire 1s, from its safety regulations and minimum standards when the

Administrator decides a requested exemption is in the public interest.3

Leading Edge seeks an exemption from several interrelated provisions of Title 14 of the Code of 

Federal Regulations ("14 C.F.R") Parts 21, 45, 61 and 91 for purposes of conducting the requested 

operations using a DJI Inspire One. Listed below are: (1) the specific sections of 14 C.F.R for which 

exemption is sought, and (2) the operating procedures and safeguards that Petitioner has established which 

will ensure a level of safety better than or equal to the rules from which exemption issought.4

3

49 U.S.C. § 44701(f) (authorizing the grant of exemptions from requirements of regulations prescribed 

pursuant to Sections 44701(a) and (b) and Sections 44702 - 44716).

4

14 C.F.R § 11.81(e), which requires a petition for exemption to include:

The reasons why granting the exemption would not adversely affect safety, or how the exemption would 

provide a level of safety at that provided by the rule from which you seek exemption.
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UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM

A. 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H – Airworthiness Certificates and 14 C.F.R. § 91.203(a)(1)

The FAA has stated that no exemption is needed from this section if a finding is made underthe 

Reform Act that the DJI Inspire 1 selected provides an equivalent level of safety when compared to

aircraft normally used for the same application. These criteria are met, and therefore no exemption is 

needed.5If, however, the FAA determines that there are some characteristics of the chosen DJI Inspire 1

that fail tomeet the requirements of the Reform Act, an exemption is requested.

Equivalent Level of Safety

Leading Edge’s use of the DJI Inspire 1 is safe when taking into account their size, weight, speed,

and operational capability. As set forth in the description of proposed operations in Section IV (A), the

UAS weighs less than 55 pounds, including payload and will not be flown at a ground speed in excess of 

50 knots. DJI Inspire 1 is also equipped with safety features that will allow Petitioner to operate theDJI 

Inspire 1 safely after experience certain in-flight contingencies or failures.67

5

See Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (FAA-2014-0352 at pgs. 13-14, 22).

6

See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11184 to Low Country RC, Corp. (FAA-2014-0803 at pg. 3):

"The DJI Inspire 1 have the capability to operate safely after experiencing certain in-flight contingencies

or failures and uses an auto-pilot system to maintain DJI Inspire 1 stability and control. The DJI Inspire 1

is also able to respond to a loss of global positioning system (GPS) or a lost-link event with a precoordinated, predictable, automated flight maneuver, and manual flight control functionality as a backup. 

These safety features provide an equivalent level of safety compared to a manned aircraft performing a

similar operation."

7 See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11184 to VDOS Global, LLC. (FAA-2014-0382 at pgs. 4-5):

The DJI Inspire 1’s can be operated entirely by a touch-screen, map-based interface. This means the

operator only needs to command the system where to go, and the system does all the flying for the 

operator. The DJI Inspire 1 can be operated in both semi and fully autonomous flight modes, with the 

operator simply clicking on a map to create a pre-planned flight path for a flight. In addition, the operator 

can create nofly zones or maximum flight ranges and altitudes so the system cannot

enter areas

{footnote continued}
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Additionally, the DJI Inspire 1’s carry neither pilots nor passengers, carry no explosive materials or 

flammable liquid fuels, and operate exclusively within the parameters stated in Leading Edge’s

Operations Manuals.

Operations conducted under this exemption will be closely controlled and monitored by the 

operator and will be conducted in compliance with local public safety requirements, to provide security 

for the area of operation. Leading Edge will also provide the FAA with advance notice of all operations

via NOTAMs as required by the applicable COA. In all cases, operation of the DJI Inspire 1 under the 

proposed conditions will be at least as safe as, or safer than, conventional rotorcraft operating with an 

airworthiness certificate.

Lastly, the DJI Inspire 1’s do not need a means to communicate with other aircraft or ATC,

because those capabilities will be possessed by the PIC and Observer, who are not onboard the DJI Inspire 

One.

8

In addition, no sense-and-avoid technology is necessary for the DJI Inspire 1’s because they will be 

operated at all times in VFR conditions and within VLOS of the PIC and Operator.9

B. 14 C.F.R. Part 27 Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Rotorcraft

Title 14 C.F.R. Part 27 sets forth the procedural requirements for airworthiness certification of 

normal category rotorcraft. To the extent that Company's small UASs would otherwise require 

certification under Part 27, Petitioner seeks an exemption from Part 27's

{continued from previous page}

deemed unsafe or unnecessary to fly over. The petitionerstates further that the DJI Inspire 1 has built-in

intelligent fault handling which allowsthe Phantom II and S1000+ to detect a system fault while in the air 

and automatically fly back to its takeoff location and land. Faults that can be detected include: loss of 

communication; exceeding pre-set wind thresholds; and low batterylevels.

All flight operations are global positioning system (GPS) controlled, making the system easy to navigate.

At any point if the operator is not explicitly commanding the system to move, the system automatically

holds its GPS position. The flight control system employs not only GPS positioning but a variety of 

sensors including sonar, barometric pressure, temperature, wind speed and others to ensure stabilityso long

as wind thresholds are not exceeded. Also a flight termination link – to prevent a 'fly away' or other 

potentially dangerous situation – is available to the operator.

8 See Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (FAA-2014-0352 at pg. 13). 

9

Id.
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C. 14 C.F.R. §§ 91.9(c), 45.23(b) and 45.27(a): Aircraft Marking and Identification 

Requirements

Leading Edge seeks an exemption from the aircraft marking and identification requirements contained 

in14 C.F.R. §§ 91.9(c), 45.23(b) and 45.27(a).

● 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(c), Civil Aircraft Flight Manual, Marking and Placard requirements, provides 

that:

No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft unless that aircraft is identifiedin 

accordance with Part 45 of this chapter.

● 14 C.F.R. § 45.23(b), Markings of the Aircraft, states:

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 two inches nor more than six inches high, the words 

"limited," "restricted," "light-sport, "Experimental," or "provisional," as applicable.

● 14 C.F.R. § 45.27(a), Rotorcraft, states:

Each operator of a rotorcraft must display on that rotorcraft horizontally on both surfaces of the 

cabin, fuselage, boom, or tail the marks required by § 45.23.

In a previous Grant of Exemption, the FAA determined that exemption from these requirements

was warranted provided that the aircraft "have identification (N-Number) markings in accordance 

with 14 C.F.R Part 45, Subpart C if the markings are as large as practicable."10

Equivalent Level of Safety

All UA flown by Leading Edge will bear N-number markings that are as large as

practicable in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Subpart C.11

________________________________________

10FAA Docket No. FAA-2014-0352.

11See, e.g., FAA Docket No. FAA-2014-0352, at 14.
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D. 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2); 91.417(a) and (b): Maintenance

Inspections

Leading Edge seeks an exemption from the maintenance inspection requirements contained

in 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(2); 91.417(a) and (b). These regulationsspecify

maintenance and inspection standards in reference to 14 C.F.R. Part 43. See, e.g., 14 C.F.R. § 91.405(a) 

(stating that each owner or operator of an aircraft "shall have the aircraft inspected as prescribed insubpart 

E of this part and shall between required inspections ...have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part43 

of this chapter"). An exemption from these regulations is needed because Part 43 and these sections only 

apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, which the DJI Inspire 1 to be operated under this grant of 

exemption will not have.

Equivalent Level of Safety

An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because maintenance and inspections will be 

performed in accordance with the Manufacturer's Manual and any required manufacturer Safety orService 

Bulletins. Further, as required by Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals, the PIC will conduct a pre-flight 

inspection of the DJI Inspire 1 and all associated equipment to account for all discrepancies and/or

inoperable components. Maintenance will be performed and verified to address any conditions potentially

affecting safe operation of the DJI Inspire 1 and no flights will occur unless, and until, all flight critical 

componentsof the DJI Inspire 1 have been found to be airworthy and in a condition safe for operation. A 

functional testflight will be conducted following the replacement of any flight-critical components. As 

required byLeading Edge’s Operations Manuals, the PIC who conducts the functional test flight will make 

an entry in theDJI Inspire 1 aircraft records of the flight.

Leading Edge’s Operations Manual also includes requirements to follow the manufacturer’s DJI 

Inspire 1 aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements 

forthe following applicable components: powertrain system (powerplant), propellers, avionics and control 

surfaces (including ailerons/elevons), structures & airframe, camera system, electrical systems(including 

batteries), ground control station, hazard accessories, and spare parts. Further, Leading Edge’s Operations 

Manuals also includes procedures to document and maintain a record of the DJI Inspire 1 maintenance, 

preventative maintenance, alterations, and status of replacement /overhaul component parts, and the total 

time in service of the DJI Inspire 1’s used under this Grant of Exemption. As a whole, the maintenance

and inspection procedures required in Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals ensure that an equivalent or

higher level of safety will be achieved.
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PILOT-IN-COMMAND OF THEUAS

E. 14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations

Leading Edge seeks exemption from 14 CFR § 61.113, which restricts private pilot certificate holders

from flying aircraft for compensation or hire, and would also require a second class medical certificate. The

purpose of Part 61 is to ensure that the skill and competency of any PIC matches the airspace in which the PIC

will be operating, as well as requiring certifications if the private pilot is carrying passengers or cargo for hire.

In this case, while the DJI Inspire 1’s will be operated as part of a commercial operation, it carries neither

passengers nor cargo.

In the Grant of Exemption to Astraeus Aerial.12, the FAA determined that the unique characteristics 

of DJI Inspire 1 operation outside of controlled airspace did not warrant the addition cost and restrictions 

attendant with requiring a PIC to have a Commercial Pilot Certificate and Class II MedicalCertificate. The

fulfillment of the additional requirements for a private pilot to become qualified as a commercial pilot 

would not lead to any additional safety benefits when DJI Inspire 1 operations are involved.

Equivalent Level of Safety

The Leading Edge restrictions have placed on its DJI Inspire 1 operations meet or exceed the

restrictions similarly imposed on Astraeus Aerial. Leading Edge will operate on private property away 

from persons and property not involved in the operation. Leading Edge will also obtain an ATO issued 

COA prior to conducting any operations under this Grant of Exemption. All operations will be conducted 

in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace, altitude 

level and potential transponder requirements. A NOTAM will also be issued as required by the applicable

COA.

In addition to these flight restrictions, Leading Edge will further ensure safe operation by requiring

that any PIC be thoroughly versed not only in airspace and communication issues pertaining to all aircraft 

operators but also in the unique aspects of DJI Inspire 1 flight. As set forth in the Operations Manuals,

pilots will have experience not only in DJI Inspire 1 operations generally but have logged flight time in the

specific make and model used for the operations before they are permitted to participate in commercial 

flights on behalf of Leading Edge. The pilot qualification, training, and currency requirements in the 

OperationsManuals ensure that Leading Edge pilots are competent and proficient in the DJI Inspire 1 they 

are operating. Leading Edge’s training and qualification requirements are consistent with those contained 

in prior FAA Section 333 Grants of Exemption, and will provide a higher level of competency and 

proficiency for its pilots and will ensure at least an equivalent level ofsafety.

12Exemption No. 11062 (FAA Docket No. FAA-2014-0352).
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OPERATING PARAMETERS OF THEDJI Inspire One

F. 14 C.F.R. § 91.7(a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness

Although there will be no airworthiness certificate issued for the DJI Inspire 1’s , Leading Edge

seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.7(a), which requires that a civil aircraft be in airworthy 

condition to be operated. The FAA has stated that no exemption is required for 14 C.F.R. § 91.7(a) to the 

extent that the requirements of Part 21 are waived or found inapplicable.13 Accordingly, Petitioner 

requests that the requirements for § 91.7(a) be treated in accordance with Section V (A),supra.

G. 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual in the Aircraft and 14

C.F.R. 03(a) and (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration

Title 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2) and § 91.203(a) and (b) require the operator to carry airworthiness 

documents and other aircraft manuals onboard the aircraft. Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2):

...

(2) For which an Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual is required by § 21.5 of this chapter, unless 

there is available in the aircraft a current approved Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual, approved manual 

material, markings, and placards, or any combination thereof.

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 91.203(a) and (b):

(a) Except as provided in § 91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has within it the 

following:

(1) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate...

(b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by 

paragraph (a) of this section or a special flight authorization issued under § 91.715 is displayed at the cabin 

or cockpit entrance so that it is legible to passengers or crew.

13See id. at 13-14, 22
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Sept 10, 2015

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Given the small size and configuration of the DJI Inspire 1, it would be impossible to keep 

airworthiness documents and other aircraft manuals on board the DJI Inspire 1 because there is simply no

room and the DJI Inspire 1 has no cabin or cockpit.

Equivalent Level of Safety

In an FAA Office of Chief Counsel's Opinion dated August 8, 2014, and prepared by Dean E. 

Griffith, Attorney, AGC-220, it was acknowledged that the intent of 14 C.F.R. 91.9(b) and 91.203(a) and

(b) is met if the pilot of the unmanned aircraft has access to the DJI Inspire 1 flight manual,registration 

certificate, and other required documents from the ground control station from which he or she is operating 

the aircraft.14 As this FAA Office of Chief Counsel Opinion clarifies, the intent of the rule is to ensure the 

pilot has access to these key documents during flight. Therefore, an equivalent level of safety will be 

achieved by ensuring that the pilot has access to the documents at the ground control station from which he 

or she is piloting the DJI Inspire One.

H. 14 C.F.R. § 91.103: Preflight Action

Leading Edge seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.103, which requires a PIC to become

familiar with specific information before each flight, including information contained in the FAA-approved

Flight Manual on board the aircraft. While the PIC will be familiar with all information necessary to safely 

conduct the flight, an exemption is requested to the extent that an FAA-approved Flight Manual isrequired.

Equivalent Level of Safety

An equivalent level of safety will be provided by following the Leading Edge’s Operations

Manuals and the Manufacturer's Manual. The PIC will perform a series of checklists designed to identify

any defects or inoperable components in accordance with the Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals,

including checklists covering Pre-Flight, Launch, Landing, and Post-Flight procedures. The PIC will also 

berequired to review weather, flight requirements, battery charge, landing and takeoff distance, UA 

performancedata, and contingency landing areas—before initiation of flight. Leading Edge’s Operations 

Manuals and the Manufacturer's Manual will be kept at the ground control station and will be accessible to 

the PIC at all times while operating the DJI Inspire One.

I. 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a): Flight Instruction

14 Memorandum from Mark Bury, FAA Assistant Chief Counsel for International Law, Legislation and 

Regulation, to John Duncan, FAA Flight Standards Service (Aug. 8, 2014); see also Docket No. FAA2014-0352 at 16-18.
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Leading Edge seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a), which provides in pertinent part that 

"[n]o person may operate a civil aircraft (except a manned free balloon) that is being used forflight 

instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls." DJI Inspire 1’s and remotely piloted

aircraft, by their design, do not have functional dual controls. Instead, flight control is accomplished 

through the use of a device that communicates with the aircraft via radio communications. Accordingly, an 

exemptionwill be required for the flight instruction requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a).

Equivalent Level of Safety

Given the size and speed of the DJI Inspire 1’s that Leading Edge intends to use, an equivalent 

level of safe training can still be performed without dual controls because no pilot or passengers are 

aboard the RE- UAS, and as required by the Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals, all persons will be a 

safe distance awayin the event that the DJI Inspire 1 experiences any difficulties during flight instruction. 

Moreover, as required by the Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals, all flight training will be conducted in 

controlled and sterile environment. As a whole, the safety procedures provided for in Leading Edge’s

Operations Manuals ensure that the proposed DJI Inspire 1 operations provide an equivalent or higher 

level of safety than that providedby the flight instruction regulations.

J. 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(c): Minimum Safe Altitudes

Leading Edge requests an exemption from the minimum safe altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 

91.119(c).15 Section 91.119 prescribes the minimum safe altitudes under which aircraft may not operate, 

including 500 feet above the surface and away from any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure in noncongested areas. See 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(c). Section 91.119(d) allows for a helicopter to operate at less 

than those minimum altitudes when it can be operated "without hazard to persons or property on the 

surface," provided that "each person operating the helicopter complies with any routes or altitudes 

specifically prescribed for helicopters by the FAA."

An exemption is required because the proposed DJI Inspire 1 operations will normally need to occur 

below 400 feet AGL. In circumstances where the DJI Inspire 1 is used to inspect a structure whoseheight 

exceeds 400 feet AGL, the DJI Inspire 1 will not be operated more than 100 feet above the highest point on

the structure, and within 50 feet horizontally of the structure. Additionally, due the nature of the proposed 

operations, the Pilot and/or Observers(s) may need to be less than 500 feet away from the DJI Inspire One.

15Relief from § 91.119(a) will not be necessary because Petitioner will be able to perform an emergency 

landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the ground in the event of a failure. Petitioner's 

proposed DJI Inspire 1 operations will not occur over congested areas, and therefore an exemption from § 

91.119(b) will not be necessary. See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11157 to Slug wear, Inc., dba Like on a 

tree Aerial (FAA-2014-0534 at 15).
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Sept 10, 2015

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Equivalent Level of Safety

Compared to flight operations with rotorcraft weighing far more than the maximumweights 

proposed herein, and given the lack of flammable fuel with the DJI Inspire 1’s , any risk associated

with these operations is far less than those that presently exist with conventional aircraft. An

equivalent level of safety will be achieved given the size, weight, and speed of the DJI Inspire 1’s , as 

well the controlled location where the operations will occur. In order to avoid any risk to manned

aircraft, flight operations will be restricted to 400 feet AGL or below, or when inspecting a structure

whose height exceeds 400 feet AGL, within 100 feet above the highest point on that structure and 50

feet horizontally of the structure.

As set forth in the Operations Manuals, the DJI Inspire 1’s will be operated in a restricted area, and all 

flights will be operated at a lateral distance of at least 500 feet from any nonparticipating persons, unless 

that person is in a position where he or she is shielded from the DJI Inspire 1 and any possible debris

resulting from DJI Inspire 1 failure. As required by the Operations Manuals, flights will be terminated if a 

nonparticipating person within 500 feet of the DJI Inspire 1 leaves a shielded position. Further, DJI Inspire 

1 operations will occur at least 500 feet away from vehicles or structures unless the propertyowner

/controller has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating

closer to those objects and, operations near the PIC or Observer will not present an undue hazard per § 

91.119(a). Adherence to these restrictions in Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals will ensure operations

can be conducted without compromising safety.16

K. 14 C.F.R. § 91.121: Altimeter Settings

Leading Edge seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.121, which requires a person operating an

aircraft to maintain cruising altitude or flight level by reference to an altimeter that is set to the elevation of

the departure airport or barometric pressure An exemption is required to the extent that the DJI Inspire 1’s 

donot have a barometric altimeter, but rather a GPS altitude read out.

16See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11138 to Douglas Trudeau (FAA-2014-0481 at 19):

"If barriers or structures are present that can sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA or 

debris in the event of an accident, then the UA may operate closer than 500 feet to persons afforded such 

protection. The operator must also 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. When considering how to immediately cease operations, the 

primary concern is the safety of those nonparticipating persons. In addition, the FAA finds that operations 

may be conducted closer than 500 feet to vessels, vehicles and structures when the owner/controller of any 

such vessels, vehicles orstructures grants permission forthe operation and the PIC makes a safety 

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

hazard.
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The FAA has stated that an equivalent level of safety to the requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.121 

can be achieved in circumstances where: (1) the DJI Inspire 1’s will be operated below 400 feet 

AGL or

below17, (2) within VLOS, (3) where GPS based altitude information is relayed in real time to theoperator

at a ground-based on-screen display and, (4) where prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is 

established for the PIC to confirm accuracy of the onboard GPS.18

The DJI Inspire 1’s that Leading Edge intends to use for the proposed operations will meet all these 

operational characteristics. Moreover, as required by Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals, the PIC will

be required to calibrate the aircraft's GPS compass prior to each flight operation. Like prior FAA Section 

333 Grants of Exemption, the DJI Inspire 1’s Leading Edge to use, and the safety mitigation procedures

contained in the Operations Manuals, both ensure that an equivalent level of safety will be achieved, and 

a Grant of Exemption to the requirements of § 191.121 is therefore appropriate.

L. 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions

Leading Edge requests an exemption from 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a)'s fuel requirements for flight in

VFR conditions. Section 91.151 states:

(a) No person may begin a flight in an airplane 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 –

(1) During the day, to fly after that for at least 30 minutes; or

(2) At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes.

Here, the technological limitations on DJI Inspire 1 battery power means that no meaningfulflight 

operations can be conducted while still maintaining a 30-minute battery reserve. An exemption fromthe 

fuel requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a) is therefore required.

17 If the height of the structure being inspected exceeds 400 feet AGL, the DJI Inspire 1 will not be

operated more than 100 feet above the highest point on the structure.

18 See Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (FAA-2014-0352 at 21).
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Sept 10, 2015

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Equivalent Level of Safety

In the Grant of Exemption to VDOS (Exemption No. 11112), the FAA determined that an 

equivalent level of safety to the fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions could be achieved by 

prohibiting the PIC from beginning a DJI Inspire 1 flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather 

conditions) there was enough power to fly to the first intended point of landing and, assuming normal 

cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 10 minutes. In reaching this conclusion, the FAA considered that 

the DJI Inspire 1 batteries for the DJI Inspire 1 provided provide approximately 20 minutes of powered 

flight (with payload) and provided battery level and battery time remaining in minutes and seconds to the 

PIC.19 The FAA also considered the fact that the DJI Inspire 1 operating manual states: “start every flight 

with a fully charged battery in the aerial vehicle”, and that in the event that the DJI Inspire 1 should run 

low on power, the PIC will be alerted and can land the DJI Inspire 1 as soon as possible. Like the VDOS 

Grant of Exemption, Leading Edge’s use of the DJI Inspire One, combined with the requirements of 

Petitioner's Operations Manuals, ensure that an equivalent level of safety can be achieved.

Similarly, in the Grant of Exemption to Alan Purwin (Exemption No. 11161), the FAA determined 

that an equivalent level of safety to the fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions could be achieved by 

prohibiting the PIC from beginning a flight with the DJI Inspire 1 unless (considering wind and forecast 

weather conditions), there was enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point 

and land the UA with 25% battery power remaining. Leading Edge will adhere to this limitation for DJI 

Inspire 1 flights.

The DJI Inspire 1 includes a low battery warning system and the amount of battery reserve power 

remaining is transmitted to the PIC via telemetric data feed, which downlinks from the DJI Inspire 1 to a 

ground-based-on-screen display.20 As required by Leading Edge’s Operations Manuals, the PIC will

promptly fly the DJI Inspire 1 back to the home launch location or pre-determined abort location where 

the DJI Inspire 1 may safely land, while still maintaining a minimum of 25% reserve battery power. 

Leading Edge submitsthat the procedures requiring flights to be safely terminated once the batteries fall 

below 25% capacity, combined with the requirement that flights only be conducted within a secure, 

isolated area, using a UAS weighting less than 55 pounds, and within VLOS of the PIC and Observer(s), 

ensure that the proposed operation will provide an equivalent or higher level of safety to that provided by 

the regulations from which exemption is sought.

19Grant of Exemption No. 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (FAA-2014-0382 at 10).

20The DJI Inspire 1 ground control station displays, the DJI Inspire 1’s position, navigation route, tail

number, altitude, heading, north seeking arrow, range to targets, calculated target position, date/time, 

and sensor heading and orientation relative to the DJI Inspire One.
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VI. DRUG AND ALCOHOL PROGRAM

Leading Edge will have policies in place to ensure that no person may participate in DJI 

Inspire 1 flight operations if they are under the influence of alcohol or any drug.

VII. PUBLIC INTEREST

The public interest will be served by granting Leading Edge’s Petition for Exemption. Congress has 

established a national policy that favors early integration of DJI Inspire 1 into the NAS in controlled,safe 

working environments such as those proposed in this Petition. Granting this Petition for Exemption helps 

fulfill Congress' goal in passing Section 333(a) through (c) of the Reform Act—the FAA Administrator's 

assessment of whether certain DJI Inspire 1 may operate safely in the NAS before completion of the

statutorily required rulemaking.

The proposed DJI Inspire 1 operations in this Petition for Exemption significantly improve safety

and reduce risk harm or serious injury to inspecting engineers. Traditional methods of real estate video 

production and inspection of structures, expose videographer-inspectors to higher risks of serious injuries, 

or death. Videographer-inspectors need to climb roof tops or otherwise perform elevated work, which 

exposes them to the risk of dangerous falls, electrocution or other work related extremes. In addition, 

depending on the nature of the video needed and inspection, proximity to equipment, and other mechanical 

hazards associated with industrial sites and construction facilities often involves a risk of exposure to 

hazardous. The use of DJI Inspire 1’s mitigates these hazards and is ultimately a much safer method of 

performing these and most other types of inspections.

The use of small DJI Inspire 1’s also enhances safety and reduces risk because, unlike manned

aircraft weighing thousands of pounds, carrying crew in addition to flammable fuel, the DJI Inspire 1’s 

carry no passengers or crew. Further, in the unlikely event of an accident, Leading Edge small battery 

powered RE- UASs presents significantly less danger to persons on the ground when compared to 

operations by conventional manned aircraft.21 As Petitioner's DJI Inspire 1’s are battery powered, the 

public will also benefit from a reduction in harmful emissions associated with conventional aircraft 

performing in the same functions proposed herein. Lastly, as recognized by the FAA in prior Section 333 

Grants of Exemption to filmmakers, DJI Inspire 1’s provide an additional tool for the aerial filming 

industry, adding a greater degree of flexibility, which supplements the current capabilities offered by 

manned aircraft.22

21See Grant of Exemption No. 11158 to Team 5, LLC (FAA-2014-0783 at 12): Manned helicopters 

conducting aerial filming can weigh 6,000 pounds or more and are operated by an onboard pilot, in addition 

to other onboard crewmembers, as necessary. The petitioner’s UAs will weigh less than 55 pounds with no 

onboard pilot or crew. The pilot and crew will be remotely located from the aircraft. The limited weight 

significantly reduces the potential for harm to participating and nonparticipating individuals or property in 

the event of an incident or accident. The risk to an onboard pilot and crew during an incident or accident is 

eliminated with the use of a UA for the aerial filming operation."
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Sept 10, 2015

Page 24

DJI Inspire 1’s provide an additional tool for the aerial filming industry, adding a greater degree of

flexibility, which supplements the current capabilities offered by manned aircraft.22

VIII. PRIVACY

All Leading Edge’s DJI Inspire 1 operations will be conducted in accordance with applicable

federal, state, or local laws regarding privacy. 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.

IX. FEDERAL REGISTER SUMMARY

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. Part 11, the following summary is provided for publication in the FEDERAL 

REGISTER, should it be determined that publication is needed:

Petitioner seeks an exemption from the following rules in Title 14 of the Code of Federal 

Regulations:

Part 21, Subpart H; Part 27; 45.23(b); 45.27(a); 61.113; 91.7(a); 91.9(b)(2); 91.9(c); 91.103; 91.109(a);

91.119(c); 91.121; 91.151(a); 91.203 (a) & (b); 91.405(a); 91.407(a)(1); 91.409(a)(1) & (2); 91.417 (a)

& (b).

The exemption will enhance safety by reducing risk to the general public and property owners 

from the substantial hazards associated with performing equivalent real estate aerial photography and 

inspection with conventional fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, or other methods.

X. CONCLUSION

Leading Edge’s Petition for Exemption satisfies the criteria articulated in Section 333 of the Reform

Act of 2012 including weight, speed, operating capabilities, proximity to airports and populated areas,

operation within VLOS and national security. The proposed DJI Inspire 1 operations will benefit the public 

as a whole by improving safety and reducing risk by alleviating human exposure to danger. In consideration 

of the foregoing, this Petition for Exemption provides the FAA with more than adequate justification for

granting the requested exemptions allowing Leading Edge use small DJI Inspire 1’s for providing aerial 

photography and videography for the real estate industry, as well as property mapping, inspections, and 3D

compositing.

22 See e.g., Grant of Exemption No. 11178 to Picture Factory, Inc. (FAA-2014-0794 at 18).
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Page 25

We thank you for your prompt consideration of our requested exemptions.

Respectfully Submitted,

Steven C Palauskas

Leading Edge Aviation Services

136 Tromley Rd

East Windsor, CT 06088

Phone: 860-729-6408

Email: steve@leadingedgeaviationservices.com

(The following attached items contain and commercial information exempt from disclosure underthe 

Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. § 522 et seq., and should be held in a separate file pursuant to 

14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).

Attachments:

1. General Operations Manual

2. PIC Operating Manual

3. Leading Edge Protocols

4. Location Protocols

5. Flight Communications Protocols

6. Departing Location Protocols

7. Transmitter Protocols

8. Preflight Checklist

9. Post Flight Checklist

10. Equipment Checklist

11. UAS Manufacturer’s Manuals

a. User Manuals

b. Maintenance Manuals