U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations 

West Building Ground Floor, Room w12-140 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 

January 24, 2015 

Subj: Petition for Exemption to Operate the DJI Phantom 2 Quad-Copter Unmanned Aerial 

System for Commercial Aerial Photography Purposes 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

The purpose of this letter is to petition the Federal Aviation Administration for an exemption 

from certain Federal Aviation Regulations in order for the petitioner, Daniel W. Achatz, to 

operate an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) within the Seattle metropolitan area of the National 

Airspace System, in furtherance of his business as a real estate photographer. Mr. Achatz is 

well acquainted with the risks that come with the privilege of operating an aircraft in the United 

States, but also with the opportunities available via new unmanned flight technology. He holds 

a Private Pilot Certificate and has logged over 500 hours of flight time in single-engine, landrated aircraft. He also has more than twenty hours of logged flight time of that particular 

unmanned aircraft that is the subject of this Petition. As a real estate photographer, the 

petitioner would like to combine the benefits of an unmanned aviation platform with his 

profession as a photographer to further the opportunities for safe, cost-effective aerial imaging 

services for the public at large. 

Accordingly, and pursuant to 14 CFR §§ 11.61-.103 and Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of2012, PL 112-95 (Feb. 14, 2012), the petitioner is submitting 

the following information with this request: 

Identity of Petitioner and Counsel to the Petitioner. 

Petitioner: Daniel W. Achatz 

6552 Earl Avenue NW 

Seattle, W A 9811 7 

(206) 612-2830 

dan@danachatz.com 

Petitioner's Counsel: David Voyles 

1300 Hoge Building, 705 Second A venue 

Seattle, WA 98104 

(206) 455-3568 

david@voylespllc.com 

- 1 - Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
Description of Operations. 

A. The UAS that is the Subject of this Petition. 

Mr. Achatz is the owner of a DJI Phantom 2 Aerial Kit unmanned aircraft with a serial number 

of PH646002943 and its associated portable ground station controller (together the "Subject 

UAS"). The Subject UAS is a quad-copter with a camera mounted beneath it, piloted via a 

portable ground station. 1 It has an empty weight of approximately 1,000 grams, and a 

maximum weight of 1,390 grams, with the GoPro Hero IV mounted as payload. He purchased 

the Subject UAS as part of a Toronto Cinema Edition P2 Aerial Kit on January 14, 2015. The 

Phantom 2 is a widely known unmanned aircraft, and is the same type of aircraft that was 

recently the subject of the grant of an exemption by the FAA. See In re Douglas Trudeau, FAA 

Exemption No. 11138 (Jan. 5, 2015). 

The portable ground station used by Mr. Achatz to pilot the unmanned aircraft is a two-channel, 

wireless communication device using an FCC-compliant 5.8GHz frequency band for the video 

link, and a 2.4 GHz transmitted. The Subject UAS is equipped with lost-link capability, which 

enables the Phantom 2 to enter a fail-safe Return-to-Home Mode in the event that the link 

between the aircraft and the ground station is lost. 2 

The Subject UAS can operate for a total of approximately 20 minutes on one battery charge. It 

has a maximum range from the ground station of 2,300 feet. However, it also has 

programmable height and radius limits to establish an operations area. Without programming 

the Subject UAS, it has a default height limit of 393 feet AGL. 

B. The UAS Pilot in Command. 

Mr. Achatz began flying as a student pilot in 1979. He conducted his flight training 

predominantly at Galvin Aviation at Boeing Field in Seattle, Washington. He was issued his 

private pilot certificate in August of 1984. As of the date of this letter, he has 526 hours of 

accumulated flight time, with over 100 hours in a high-performance single engine aircraft with 

retractable landing gear. 

Mr. Achatz has never been subject to an FAA enforcement action. Nor has he ever been 

involved with an aircraft accident or incident that required notification to the NTSB. 

With regard to the Subject UAS, Mr. Achatz has made numerous flights as a hobbyist, and has 

accumulated more than fifteen hours of flight time with the Subject UAS. 

1 See Toronto Edition Packaging List, Nomenclature, and Operating Instructions, attached hereto as Exhibit A. 2 See Phantom 2 Flight Procedures, attached hereto as Exhibit B. 

- 2- Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
C. UAS Operating Parameters and Intended Mission Profile. 

Mr. Achatz is a professional photographer. He has worked for multiple sellers of real property 

and real estate brokerages in the Seattle area on a contract basis to photograph homes listed for 

sale. He intends to use the Subject UAS to conduct aerial photography for listing brokers.3 

The vast majority of the petitioner's operations will be conducted in the Seattle metropolitan 

area. However, his business takes him throughout the western Washington area. On the Seattle 

Sectional Chart, those flights would occur generally within western Washington.4 Because the 

operations may be conducted at various locations in the area during the period that the 

exemption would be in effect, there are not specific locations at which Mr. Achatz intends to 

operate. 

Mr. Achatz would adopt with the following UAS Operating Parameters: 

1. All missions will be conducted below 300' AGL, and within a radius distance of 

800' from the portable ground station.' 

2. Each mission will consist of one flight. 

3. Mr. Achatz will establish a fixed location where he will be positioned with the 

portable ground station, and where he will post a sign near the ground station 

stating, "Aerial Photography in Progress- Remain Back 150 feet." 

4. Mr. Achatz will act as the pilot in command and will have direct line of sight 

visual observation of the aircraft at all times, and operate only within visual 

line of sight. He will conduct all operations under his own personal and flight 

safety protocols, and post a sign near his control station. 

5. In terms of proximity to the residence or structure being photographed, Mr. 

Achatz may operate in a close proximity to the structure, and in some cases as 

close as 25' away from the structure. When that happens, he will operate at 

less than two miles per hour, making the risk of collision almost negligible. 

6. Prior to the start of a flight, Mr. Achatz will activate and use the UAS's global 

positioning system flight safety procedure and lost-link procedure to ensure 

return of the aircraft in the event of a lost link or compromised communication. 

7. On each mission, the aircraft will return to the control pad with no less than five 

minutes of battery power remaining. 5 

8. Each mission will last for no more than twenty minutes of flight time. 

3 Attached hereto as Exhibit Care examples of Mr. Achatz's aerial photography done on a recreational basis. 4 Exhibit D contains a chart with the coordinates ofthe proposed operating boundaries. 5 Attached hereto as Exhibit Eisa sample battery log for the Subject UAS, showing the percentage of battery 

power remaining on landing. 

- 3 - Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
9. In the event that any mission would ever occur within the airspace of a specific 

airport (e.g., if the operation will involve photographing a residence located in 

a neighborhood in West Seattle, which falls within the KBFI Class D airspace) 

or controlled airspace, Mr. Achatz shall obtain the permission of that control 

tower to operate in that airspace or from the appropriate control authority. 

10. In the event that any mission will occur within five miles of an airport, Mr. 

Achatz shall ensure the airport is notified of the estimated flight time, flight 

duration, elevation of flight, and pertinent information. 

11. Mr. Achatz will conduct all flights in permissible weather, and during hours from 

BMNT to EENT. 

Specific Sections of 14 CFR From Which Petitioner Seeks an Exemption. 

Mr. Achatz seeks an exemption from the following F ARs: 

14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H Certification procedures for products and parts, 

Airworthiness Certificates 

14 CFR Part 36 Noise standards: Type and airworthiness 

14 CFR § 45.23 Display of marks; general 

14 CFR Part 61 Certification: Pilots, flight instructors, and ground 

instructors 

14 CFR § 91.7 Civil aircraft airworthiness 

14 CFR § 91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard 

requirements 

14 CFR § 91.103 Preflight action 

14 CFR § 91.105 Flight crewmembers at stations 

14 CFR § 91.109 Flight instruction 

14 CFR § 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes 

14 CFR § 91.121 Altimeter settings 

14 CFR § 91.151 Fuel requirements for flights in VFR conditions 

14 CFR § 91.1 73 ATC clearance and flight plan in IFR conditions 

14 CFR § 91.203 Civil aircraft: Certifications required 

14 CFR § 91.207 Emergency locator transmitters 

14 CFR Part 91, Subpart E Maintenance 

The Extent of Relief Sought, and Reasons for Seeking the Exemption. 

14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H. Part 21 establishes the procedures for issuance of 

certificates of airworthiness, as mandated by 49 U.S.C. § 44704. Under Section 333 and 49 

U.S.C. § 44701(b), the FAA may exempt aircraft from airworthiness certification. The 

petitioner requests an exemption from the requirements of this Part because the size, weight, 

speed, operational capability and proximity to airports in which the Subject UAS pose 

significantly less of a risk that the risks posed by conventional aircraft. Manned aircraft pose 

- 4- Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
risks to the life and safety of the crew; that is not a consideration with the Subject UAS. Risks 

to third parties are also minimized given the lightweight and slow speed at which the Subject 

U AS would operate. Nor are there risks of fuel spillage or fire in the event of an accident. Thus 

Mr. Achatz requests that the FAA waive the requirement that the Subject UAS, particularly the 

aircraft portion, require an airworthiness certificate. 

14 CFR Part 36. FAR Part 36, Subparts A, F and 0, establish certain noise standards 

for certification of various aircraft types. Because the Subject UAS would not have an 

airworthiness certificate, and given its small size and negligible noise impact, the petitioner 

requests an exemption from FAR Part 36. 

14 CFR § 45.23. FAR Part 45.23 establishes marking requirements for aircraft; 

paragraph (b) mandates that the registration number be displayed in letters not less than two 

inches in height. The Subject UAS is small enough that it cannot accommodate the type-size 

requirement. Accordingly, Mr. Achatz requests an exemption from this part. 

14 CFR Part 61. FAR Part 61 sets forth the certification requirements for pilots. 

Subpart E establishes the privileges and limitations for holders of a private pilot certificate. The 

petitioner requests an exemption that would allow him to operate the Subject UAS for 

compensation or hire as part of his aerial photography business for the reasons articulated in In 

re Trudeau, FAA Exemption No. 11138, and In re Astraeus, FAA Exemption No. 11062. Mr. 

Achatz will operate the Subject UAS over property where the owner or owner's representative 

has requested that the operation occur. Furthermore, as a holder of a private pilot certificate, 

Mr. Achatz is an Airman who meets the knowledge base and skill level for operating an UAS. 

He thus requests and exemption from the requirement that he hold a commercial pilot certificate 

and anything other than a Third Class Medical certificate. 

14 CFR § 91.7. Under FAR 91.7, no person may operate an aircraft unless it is in an 

airworthy condition. To the extent that "airworthy" is defined as requiring an airworthiness 

certificate, the petitioner would request an exemption from this FAR for the same reasons 

identified in his request for an exemption of 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H. He will not, however, 

operate the Subject UAS if it is not in a condition for safe flight, as required under FAR 91.7(b). 

14 CFR § 91.9. Petitioner requests exemption from the requirement of FAR 91.9, which 

requires that all aircraft have certain markings, placards and on-board flight manuals for the 

same reasons as stated in his request fro exemption under 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H, and for a 

deviation from the marking requirements of 14 CFR Part 36, Subparts A, F, and 0. 

14 CFR § 91.103. FAR 91.103 mandates certain pre-flight action. Petitioner will take 

all necessary pre-flight action, but requests an exemption from this requirement insofar as it is 

interpreted as requiring pre-flight actions appropriate to manned aircraft only (e.g., that flights 

be from an airport, etc.). 

14 CFR § 91.105. FAR 91.105 mandates that crewmembers be at designated stations, 

have safety belts fastened, etc. Petitioner would be at a designated ground station for each 

mission, but requests an exemption to accommodate the fact that the Subject UAS is unmanned. 

- 5 - Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
14 CFR § 91.109. This FAR requires that all flight instruction be conducted in aircraft 

that have dual controls, or throw-over controls, with an instructor. From time to time the 

petitioner will conduct his own refresher training, but requests an exemption insofar as this FAR 

would be interpreted to require that the ground control station have a second controller or dualcontrol capability. 

14 CFR § 91.119. FAR 91.119 sets forth the minimum safe altitudes over various areas. 

Petitioner requests an exemption from this this FAR in order to accomplish the intended 

function of the mission for which he seeks an exemption. 

14 CFR § 91.121. FAR 91.121 mandates various altimeter settings in order to maintain 

level flight. Petitioner requests and exemption from this FAR as the Subject UA V will not have 

an altimeter that matches the requirements of this FAR. Operations with the Subject UAV will, 

however, maintain altitude below the 300' AGL ceiling by the petitioner monitoring the altitude 

of the UAS and through the Subject UAS's ability to establish a flight zone that cannot exceed 

the ceiling. 

14 CFR § 91.151. Petitioner requests an exemption from the VFR-flight fuel carrying 

requirements because the Subject UAS will operate on battery power. Operations with the 

Subject UAS will, however, maintain a five-minute reserve battery time. 

19 CFR § 91.173. Petitioner requests an exemption from the IFR-clearance requirement 

for flights into controlled airspace. It is possible Mr. Achatz may operate the Subject UAS in 

conditions that are IFR within controlled airspace (e.g., a flight on a day with less than three 

miles visibility in a neighborhood that falls within the Class D airspace of KBFI). He would 

request that, after contacting A TC for the controlled airspace, he would be allowed to operate in 

what might be IFR conditions, but where he still has complete and unfettered line of sight 

visibility with the Subject UAS. 

14 CFR § 91.203. FAR 91.203 requires that a civil aircraft have an airworthiness 

certificate and a registration certificate. Mr. Achatz requests that he be exempt from complying 

with this FAR insofar as it mandates issuance of an airworthiness certificate, for the reasons 

stated in his request for an exemption under 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H. 

14 CFR § 91.207. FAR 91.207 prohibits operation of a US-registered aircraft unless it is 

equipped with an emergency locator transmitter. Given the limited distance of flights of the 

Subject UAS, Mr. Achatz requests and exemption from this FAR. 

14 CFR Part 91, Subpart E. FAR 91, Subpart E requires that owners or operators of 

aircraft have the aircraft inspected at certain intervals, and by certain mechanics. Petitioner 

requests an exemption from this Subpart because the Subject UAS has a trouble-shooting and 

maintenance program that is best executed by the owner/operator, and is simply different from 

the maintenance of manned aircraft. Petitioner will, however, maintain a maintenance log and 

any maintenance records of repair of the Subject UAS. 

- 6 - Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
Public Interest and Benefit Considerations. 

Aerial imaging services generally require use of a manned platform. Close-proximity aerial 

photography is difficult to do, and usually requires the use of a helicopter or slow-moving 

aircraft at an appropriate distance over a populated area. The operation must be conducted in 

VFR conditions, and adds aircraft in congested airspace. 

By using the Subject UAS, Mr. Achatz aims to provide the public with quality aerial 

photography services at a fraction of the cost involved with manned flight. Furthermore, the 

risks inherent with manned flight are significantly reduced where the aircraft conducting the 

operation is less than five pounds, remains below 300' AGL, and can operate within a very 

confined cylinder on or directly over the location being photographed. Finally, as a certificated 

airman, he has the knowledge and experience to conduct a safe, efficient flight operation in 

furtherance of his primary occupation. Thus the public will be better served by having more 

affordable aerial imaging options available, and through an operation that is being conducted by 

an FAA -certificated airman. 

Why the Exemptions Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

The proposed operations will not adversely affect safety for four primary reasons. 

First, the operations will be conducted in airspace where there is typically no activity 

among other users of the NAS. Flights are limited to property over which the owner has 

requested that the Subject UAS operate, so the owners will be aware of the flight operation. As 

a pilot himself, Mr. Achatz fully recognizes the dangers that a small UAV could pose to all 

types of manned aircraft. The operations he is proposing to undertake pending approval of this 

Exemption Request are operations where manned aircraft will not fly. There would be a rigid 

separation between where a manned aircraft can fly (particularly due to FAR 91.119 which 

establishes minimum safe altitudes, to include an absolute prohibition of operating an aircraft 

within 500' of any structure) and where Mr. Achatz would operate the UAV. 

Second, the Subject UAS is simply not a large aircraft. Weighing in at a maximum of 

five pounds fully loaded, the likelihood that it would damage property or injure a person is not 

low, even in the event of a mishap. Furthermore, aerial imaging is still something done via 

manned aircraft, and the risk there is at least equal to the risk posed by the proposed operation. 

Third, the Subject UAS has inherent lost-link capabilities to bring it back to its operating 

base for each mission. It is a redundant system for a more foreseeable problem that could arise. 

Fourth, the Subject UAS will be operated only by the petitioner. Mr. Achatz is a 

certificated pilot with sufficient flight time and experience with the aircraft to conduct a 

reasonably safe operation. 

- 7 - Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
Language for Inclusion in the Federal Register. 

Mr. Achatz proposes that the following language be included in the Federal Register: 

Conclusion. 

Petitionfor Exemption. 

Federal Aviation Regulations from which Petitioner seeks exemption: 14 

CFR 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H; Part 36; § 45.23; Part 61; §§ 91. 7; 

91.9; 91.103; 91.105; 91.109; 91.119; 91.121; 91.151; 91.173; 91.203; 

91.207; and 14 CFR Part 91, Subpart E. 

Description of Relief Sought: The petitioner is seeking an exemption 

from the above-referenced Federal Aviation Regulations to conduct 

aerial photography using a light, unmanned aerial vehicle for 

homeowners and real estate brokers seeking to provide aerial images of 

homes being listed for sale in the Seattle metropolitan area. 

Mr. Achatz and the undersigned counsel thank the FAA for considering this request. Please do 

not hesitate to contact us should there be a need for additional information. We look forward to 

working with the FAA in its determination, and to being part of the discussion as the FAA 

considers how to expand, train, test, register, track and control commercial UAV use in the 

United States. 

Respectfully Submitted, 

Daniel W. Achatz 

Petitioner 

~J/';F ?-,___ C ~~.Voyles Counsel to the Petitioner 

- 8 - Exemption Request 

Daniel W. Achatz 
Exhibit A-Toronto Edition Packaging List, Nomenclature, and Operating Instructions 
Toronto Edition Packaging List 

Congratulations on your purchase of a DSLRPros Toronto Edition Aerial Kit. Inside 

your Special Edition tough case you will find the following items with numbers that 

correspond to the kit image on the following page. 

1. Set Of 4 Self-Tightening Propeller Blades (Carbon Fiber Blades Not Pictured) 

2. Propeller Guards 

3. DJI Phantom 2 With 3-Axis Gimbal Pre-Installed 

4. DJI Phantom 2 Quick Start Guide 

5. DSLRPros Lanyard For DJI Remote 

6. Set Of Spare Gimbal Vibration Absorbers 

7. DJI Smart Flight Battery Charger 

8. Set of 2 DJI Smart Flight Batteries (1 Shown) 

9. Field Monitor Cables 

10. DSLRPros 7" FPV Field Monitor 

11. DJI Remote Transmitter 

12. Sun Shade For FPV Field Monitor 

13. Anti-Drop Pins For Gimbal 

14. FPV Field Monitor Charger 

15. A/C Power Cables For Field Monitor Charger 

16. Set Of Spare Screws and Propeller Wrench 

17. Set Of Antennas For FPV Field Monitor 

18. Micro-USB Cable 

19. A/C Power Cable For DJI Smart Flight Battery Charger 

20. International Plug Set 

21. Philip's Head Screwdriver 

22. String For Propeller Guards 
N 

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DSLR p r'()s- TM 

PLEASE READ ALL TOPICS BEFORE POWERING ON FOR FIRST TIME 

New pilots should NOT fly the Phantom with the Gimbal attached until they have had at least 10 

hours of flight practice. Refer to the Zenmuse H3-3D operator's manual for installation and 

removal instructions (found on www.dji.com). 

DJI Phantom 2 Wiki: http://wiki.dji.com/en/index.php/Phantom 2 

DJI Phantom 2 Videos: .lillp://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2/video 

For DSLRPros videos please visit our You Tube Channel 

Link: http: //www.youtube.com/ channel/UCJUVqDv Azr1jbdrmhxsH7jw 

1. Turning On Your Transmitter and Phantom 2 

2. Advanced Calibration 

3. Compass Calibration 

4. LED Break Down 

5. GoPro Shooting Preferences 

6. Flight Modes 

7. OEM Phantom Controller/Transmitter (If Applicable) 

8. Futaba Controller /Transmitter (If Applicable) 

9. Propeller Installation 

10. Gimbal Installation & Removal 

11. Updating Your Software 

12. Battery Safety 

WARNING: 

DO NOT fly with zip ties attached to Phantom. Zip ties are installed for shipping purposes only. 

DO NOT use WiFi with the Go Pro on the Phantom. This will cause the pilot to lose control over 

the craft and result in a flyaway. 

DO NOT power on the Phantom without a GoPro attached 

to the gimbal. This will damage the gimbal and render it 

unusable. 

Be sure to add the anti-drop caps to the gimbal before 

flying with the gimbal attached. 

It is the owner's responsibility to be certain that the 

propeller blades are attached properly and securely 

fastened before every flight. It is recommended that 

novice pilots learn to fly with the white plastic propellers 

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Turning On Your Transmitter and Phantom 2 

Always turn on your transmitter before turning on your craft. To turn on our transmitter press the 

power switch to the "on" position. Make sure your throttle is all the way down and the toggle 

switches are in the uppermost position before turning on your transmitter. 

To turn on your Phantom 2 insert the DJI Smart Flight Battery into the craft, press the circular 

power button once, then press again and hold until the Power Light on the battery turns red. 

Advanced Calibration 

Make sure the settings have been properly adjusted so that the Phantom can run with the best 

performance possible. 

Plug the Phantom into your PC or Mac using the USB cable provided . 

Power on the transmitter with the throttle all the way down . 

Power on the Phantom . 

Open the DJI Phantom Application . 

Go to the "Tools" tab . 

Click "Advance." 

Make sure there is no metal anywhere around the compass . 

Do not touch the table that the craft is on and make sure it is very still. 

Click "advanced cali." 

When a box pops up that says "power down MC" ignore it, click OK, and do not touch anything . 

When the advanced calibration has completed successfully, a green check mark will appear to the 

right of the status bar. 

Compass Calibration 

It is important to calibrate your compass outdoors every time you fly your craft. This allows the 

Phantom to track its own position from multiple satellites and ensures optimal performance. 

Set the Phantom on a flat surface . 

With the throttle down and all switches in the uppermost position power up the transmitter and 

then power up the Phantom. 

Wait until the Phantom has full GPS lock. You will know the Phantom has full GPS lock when the 

LEDs under the Phantom's arms are green and blinking. 

Flip the flight mode switch from "GPS" to "Atti" five times in a steady motion until the lights on the 

underside of the craft turn a solid, unblinking yellow. 

Pick up the Phantom (do not hold by compass). 

Hold the Phantom straight out and turn your body in a complete circle until the lights turn from 

yellow to solid green. 

Stop turning . 

Rotate the Phantom vertically so that the USB port is facing straight down and repeat your 360-

degree rotation until the lights blink green again. 

Place the Phantom back on the ground and look to see that there are only green blinking lights. If 

not, repeat the process. 
4. LED Break Down 

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This list will help users understand what all the different LED light combinations on the Phantom 

mean. 

Initialization: Slow} steady flashing yellow lights . 

Satellite Lock: 2 green blinks . 

Transmitter Off: Rapid steady flashing yellow lights . 

IOC Enabled: Users will see green flashing lights but intermittently have a yellow flash indicating 

that it is working. Be sure to fly more than 30 feet away from the craft's home location. 

DO NOT fly with any red lights at all. 

Starting Up the FPV (If Applicable) 

Follow these steps to properly turn on the FPV connection. Not following these steps may result in 

damage to the system. 

Make sure the GoPro is connected and powered on . 

Make sure the antennas are screwed in to both the TX and Monitor /Rx of the FPV system before 

powering on. 

Make sure the BAND and CHANNELS on both the FPV TX and Monitor /Rx are the same. Our FPV 

system is multichannel and multi-band capable. 

When the digital counter turns on the FPV TX is on and transmitting . 

Turn on the FPV Monitor /Rx by pressing and holding the power button for 3 seconds. A red light 

next to the power button will turn on when the Monitor is on. 

GoPro Shooting Preferences 

The Go Pro has an array of different shooting modes and settings. This can be overwhelming for 

users who are not accustomed to using a Go Pro} so here is a quick reference guide on our 

recommendations for different shooting conditions. More information can be found in the GoPRo 

manual. 

• Overall best shooting: 2. 7k1 30 FPSJ 

• Low light shooting: 1080P 30 FPSJ Wide} No Pro tune 

• Slow motion: 1080p at 60 fps (any setting at a higher fps than 60) 

• Put all GoPro footage through "CineForm}) (free editing/conversion software offered by GoPro) 

before putting it into any other editing program. 

6. Flight Modes 

The Phantom 2 comes with multiple flight modes that allow users to control the Phantom in many 

different ways. 

• Attitude Mode: Maintains altitude but the craft will keep moving in one direction when influenced 

by wind or momentum. 

• GPS Attitude Mode: Maintains altitude and position. Even if acted upon by an outside force it will 

return to its last location (where the user let go of the sticks). 

• IOC Mode: No matter the position of the Phantom} the directional controls will always remain the 

same. 
7. OEM Phantom Controller/Transmitter (If Applicable) 

The Phantom OEM Controller /Transmitter is the default transmitter for the Phantom 2. 

• Refer to the DJI tutorials and User Manual for flight controls and information. 

• The DSLRPros Lanyard attaches to the OEM Phantom Transmitter by the silver loop above the 

power switch. 

8. Futaba Controller /Transmitter (If Applicable) 

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The Futaba controller is the ideal controller for DSLRPros aerial kits. This is an upgraded 

controller that provides more options when piloting the Phantom. 

The LiPo charger is meant to charge the LiPo battery only. NEVER charge a LiPo battery with any 

charger that is not a LiPo battery charger. Incorrect charging can cause damage the battery that 

may result in severe damage to persons and surroundings. 

Left Stick: Located on the left hand side of the transmitter, pressing up and down on the throttle 

controls vertical movements. Pressing left and right on the throttle stick causes the aerial to rotate 

clockwise or counter-clockwise. 

Right Stick: Located on the right hand side of the transmitter, the right stick controls forward and 

backward movement and left and right horizontal movement. 

To turn on the motors for your craft, move both the left and right control stick all the way down 

and towards the center of the transmitter. Release the sticks when the motors begin to spin. 

SA Toggle Switch: This is the Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) mode, which is NOT enabled by 

default. This switch is located on the left side of the transmitter just above the throttle control. 

SE Toggle Switch: This controls the flight mode. This switch is located on the top, left hand side of 

the transmitter. See the ''Advanced NAZA Assistant Manual" for further details. 

SH Toggle Switch: This is the timer reset. This timer is set to warn the user when to start landing 

the Phantom. This switch is located on the top, right hand side of the transmitter. 

RD Knob: This sets the gimbal stopping point for the tilt. The trim slider on the rear, right side of 

the Futaba controls the tilt. The RD knob is located on the front of the transmitter, above the 

power switch. 

SD Toggle Switch: The Dual Rate option on the Futaba allows users to limit the overall speed at 

which the Phantom can operate through the "Fluid Slow Pan" mode. 

Propeller Installation 

It is the owner's responsibility to be certain that the propeller blades are attached properly and securely 

fastened before every flight. All propeller blades are directional and can only be attached to one set of 

motors. Installing a propeller blade on the wrong motor can result in damage to the craft. If you are 

unsure about how to install your propeller blades, contact DSLRPros before attempting to fly your craft. 

It is recommended that novice pilots learn to fly with the white plastic propellers. The carbon fiber 

propellers are for experienced pilots. They are of a different construction and can be much more 

dangerous for inexperienced pilots. 

Proper direction for rotation is necessary when attaching propeller blades. When the front of the craft is 

facing the user, the motors are numbered 1 to 4 (counter clockwise), starting with the left hand motor. 

Prop nuts on motors 1 & 3 tighten by spinning clockwise while prop nuts on motors 2 & 4 tighten in a 

counter clockwise direction. 
DSLRPros Carbon Fiber Props are NOT self-tightening. 

Motor#2 

~Prop .spins 

cw: 

Motor#1 

-Prop spins 

ccw 

-Prop nut 

tightensCW 

To attach the propellers, remove the warning discs from the motors and spin the propeller blades onto 

the corresponding motor in the direction indicated by the above image. Correct propeller installation is 

necessary for proper flight. Additional information can be found in the DJI User Manual. 

Propeller guards are to be used for indoor situations only. Please follow the instructions below to install 

prop guards. 

• To install your propeller guards, carefully place your craft upside down on a stable, flat surface. 

• Under each motor, you will see 4 2mm Hex screws. Remove the two outermost screws from the 

base of each motor. Do not discard the removed screws. 

• Use the propeller guard screws (note that these screws are longer than those that you just 

removed from the P2) to secure the propeller guards to the base of the motors. 

• For added security, thread the white string included with your purchase through the eyes of the 

propeller guards. 

10. Gimbal Installation & Removal 

It is highly recommended that new pilots remove the lower half of the gimbal before flight practice so that 

in the event of a crash while learning to fly the Phantom the Zenmuse H3-3D will not be damaged. Please 

refer to the Zenmuse H3-3D operator manual for detailed installation and removal procedures. The 

images and directions below are only supplemental to the manuals found on the DJI website. 

Only the lower half of the gimbal is attached and secured in place via the rubber tension grommets, which 

have a lip that fits into the bracket rings. While these provide enough tension to retain the gimbal during 

flight they can come loose if the craft is involved in a significant crash. The grey /black ribbon cable will 

be the only connection to the craft for power and video. This cable can be disconnected and reconnected 

at will after the lower half is removed from the brackets. 

• To disconnect your gimbal, pinch the rubber tension grommets and pull out of the top plate. 

• Disconnect the ribbon cable from the gimbal by firmly pulling it out of the back of the gimbal. It is 

recommended that you disconnect the gimbal cable before performing any firmware updates. 

Failure to do so can result in damage to your gimbal. 
• 

• 

11. 

To reconnect your gimbal, pinch the rubber tension grommets back into place and reattach the 

ribbon cable. 

Be sure to attach the anti-drop pins before flying with your gimbal installed . 

Updating Your Software 

It is recommended that you periodically check for software updates using the DJI assistant software 

application. When upgrading the firmware on either the transmitter or the craft, be sure to disconnect the 

gimbal from the craft. Upgrading your software with the gimbal's ribbon cable still attached can 

permanently damage the gimbal. 

• Plug the Phantom into your PC or Mac using the USB cable provided. 

• Power on the transmitter with the throttle all the way down. 

• Power on the Phantom. 

• Open the DJI Phantom software. 

• Go to the "Upgrade" tab. 

• If upgrades are available, check with DSLRPros to ensure that the upgrade is necessary before 

installing. 

• After the upgrade is complete, power down your craft and transmitter before reattaching the 

gimbal. 

12. Battery Safety 

It is vital to the safety of your aerial craft, yourself, and others that you practice proper battery safety 

when using, charging, and storing all batteries used with your Phantom. Improper use, charging, and/or 

storage of batteries can result in damage to the battery or personal property. Please adhere to all battery 

safety guidelines in the included manuals. The estimated flight time for a Phantom 2 with H3-3D gimbal 

under ideal conditions is 11 minutes. 
• 

• 

• 

• 

Only charge your batteries using the included charging units. Failure to do so may result in fire . 

Never charge batteries unattended . 

If you notice that a battery is swelling or ballooning, 

immediately discontinue the charge, remove the battery 

from the charger, and observe the battery outside and 

away from any combustible materials for at least 15 

minutes. 

In the event of a crash, remove the battery from the craft 

and observe it in a safe location looking for swelling or 

damage for at least 15 minutes before using the battery 

again. 

• When storing your batteries for more than two weeks, 

you must reduce their charge to storage mode. Refer to 

your manual for proper battery storage procedures. DO 

NOT 

USE 

If your kit includes a Futaba transmitter with a Lithium Polymer 

Battery, please adhere to the guidelines outlined in the charger 

manual and only use the included Futaba charging station when ~gr 

charging a Futaba battery. It is always recommended to charge use 

and store your LiPo batteries in a LiPo Safe Flame Resistant bag. 

Failure to do so can result in fire. ~-------------------~ 

is recommended that you use the Balance(BAL) setting 

when charging LiPo batteries. 

DSLRPros 2600mAH LiPo battery is 2 Cell(2S) and 

charges at NO more than 2Amps. 
DSLRPros Futaba 8FG Black Edition Super 14-Channel 

Ultimate Kit Replacement Transmitter 

Pre-programmed Control Guide 

(1) SE Toggle Switch (GPS, A TTl, A TTl): This is your flight mode control. The lowest A TTl position 

can be set to trigger "FAILSAFE" as an advanced feature. See you DJI Phantom "Advanced NAZA 

Assistant Manual" for further details. 

(5) 

(2) SA Toggle Switch (OFF, COURSE LOCK, HOME LOCK): This is your Intelligent Orientation Control or IOC. This mode is not 

enabled by default. 

(3) SB and SC Toggle Switches (OFF, SMALL RADIUS, LARGE RADIUS): These switches control the advanced Point of Interest flight 

profiles. This function allows the operator to bank left or right using only the right joystick. Using the SB Toggle will allow the pilot to 

fly an inside pivot around a central object. Using the SC Toggle will enable you to fly an outside pivot. These functions are reserved 

for advanced users and NOT enabled at default. 

(4) RD Knob: This knob sets the gimbal's stopping point for the camera tilt. The tilt is controlled by the trim lever on the rear 

right side of the Futaba. 

(5) SD Toggle Switch (OFF, 30%, 50%): This enables the "Fluid Slow Pan" mode. 

(6) Throttle and Pan Control Stick. 

(7) Forward, Backward, Left and Right Control Stick. 

(8) SH Toggle Switch: This is your timer reset. The Futaba comes with dual timers set to give you an audible alarm at 4 minutes and 

again at 8 minutes. Once you switch out a new battery, use the SH switch to zero out the timer. NOTE: The automatic timer should 

only be used as a reference point and should not be relied upon for accurate battery life. Under ideal conditions, a Phantom 2 with 

H3-3D axis installed will have 11 minutes of flight time. 
Exhibit B -Phantom 2 Flight Procedures 
DSLRPr'()S'TM 

Phantom 2 Flight Procedures 

It is recommended that you follow this procedure when flying your craft. 

0 Be certain that the WiFi function on your GoPro is off. If you see a flashing blue 

light on your Go Pro, this means the WiFi function is on and must be turned off 

before starting your craft. 

0 Check that batteries for transmitter and craft are fully charged and properly 

installed. 

;0 Check that a camera is connected to gimbal. I 

I 

0 Check that antennas are connected to FPV monito1 

· 0 Check that propellers are securely fastened to motprs. 

0 Place all switches on transmitter in their uppermost position with the throttle all 

I the way down. 

0 Power on your transmitter. 

0 Power on your craft and wait for LED lights to stop flashing red, indicating that 

your craft has achieved its GPS signal. 

0 Perform a compass calibration. 

0 With the craft on an even surface at least ten feet away from you, start the 

motors by moving the control sticks down and towards the center of the 

transmitter. 

0 Press up on the throttle to take off. 
Exhibit C-Examples of Mr. Achatz's Aerial Photography Done on a Recreational Basis 
Exhibit D -Boundary of Intended Area of Operation 

Boundary Points: N48°56.77' W120°43.20'147° 

N47°17.97' Wll9°59.47'166° 

N46°ll.40' W120°2.42'245° 

N45°59.46' W121 °38.66'265° 

N46°8.91' W122°52.98'249° 

N46°4.30' W124°3.22'337 

N46°49.66' W124°10.87'326° 

N47°34.60' W124°32.07'332° 

N48°26.45' W124°48.58'087 

N48°ll.77' Wl23°21.34'022° 

N48°25.75' Wl23°4.66'321 o 

N48°39.42' W123°13.24'040° 

N48°45.54' W122°59.42'326° 

N48°59.22' Wl23°5.86'072° 

N48°59.45' W120°43.83' 
ExhibitE- Log for Phantom Battery 
---"~'

Battery Log for Phantom Batt 1 

Date Type Flight time % left on Landing 

11/13/14 Phantom 2 0.4 24% 

11/13/14 Phantom 2 0.4 27% 

11/15/14 Phantom 2 0.4 26% 

11/15/14 Phanton 2 0.4 25% 

11/16/14 Phantom 2 0.4 27% 

11/24/14 Phantom 2 0.4 25% 

11/25/14 Phantom 2 0.4 26% 

12/08/13 Phantom 2 0.4 26% 

12/12/14 Phantom 2 0.4 25% 

12/12/14 Phantom 2 · 0.4 27% 

12/15/14 Phantom 2 0.4 26% 

12/23/14 Phantom 2 OA 24% 

12/23/14 Phanton 2 0.4 25% 

12/24/14 Phantom 2 0.4 28% 

12/29/14 Phantom 2 0.4 26% 

12/29/14 Phantom 2 0.4 27% 

01/01/15 Phantom 2 0.4 29% 

.1/1/15 Phantom 2 0.4 .28% 

1/1/15 Phantom 2 0.4 29% 

1/6/15 Phantom 2 0.4 28% 

1/8/15 Phantom 2 0.4 27% 

9-Jan Phantom 2 0.4 27%· 

11/12/15 Phantom 2 0.4 26% 

11/13/15 Pahtom 2 0.4 23% 

14-Nov Phantom 2 0.4 27% 

16-Jan Phantom 2 0.4 27%