DMZ Marketing, LLC.

Operations Manual - 2015

Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems

By

OPERATIONS MANUAL
1

INTRODUCTION

CONTENTS

Contained in this Operational Manual are the operational guidelines for all DMZ 

Marketing, LLC. sUAS craft piloted by DMZ Pilots in Command and observed 

by DMZ Visual Observers. The guidelines herein provide instruction on how to 

operate DMZ sUAS Flight Crafts as well as operating rules and regulations 

pertaining to DMZ’s Petition for Exemption under Section 333 of the Federal 

Aviation Administration Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. 

 

CONTACT INFORMATION

DMZ Marketing, LLC. 

1501 Parkview Court 

Prairie du Sac, WI 53578

USA

Phone: 608-370-2858

Email: dmzaerial@gmail.com

INTRODUCTORY STATEMENT

Pursuant to the Petition for Exemption under Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, the operational guidelines herein 

provide instruction on how to safely operate and manage commercial sUAS 

flights over the United States of America utilizing DMZ Marketing, LLC. Flight 

Craft. As is highlighted by the Federal Aviation Administration, successful 

Petitions for Exemption are granted to individuals and businesses who can show 

that their commercial sUAS flights are within the public interest and provide at 

least an equivalent level of safety as what current rules and regulations provide. 

For this reason, it is imperative that all commercial sUAS flights performed by 

DMZ representatives adhere to strict operating procedures as laid out in the 

Petition for Exemption paperwork filed with the FAA. Failure to follow the rules 

laid out within the Exemption paperwork are ground for the removal of a granted 

exemption and in turn the forfeiture of the ability to conduct commercial sUAS 

operations. Thus, DMZ strongly encourages all representatives to read through 

this operations manual and become familiarized with the rules and regulations 

pertaining to proper sUAS operations at DMZ Marketing, LLC. 
2

DEFINITIONS

 sUAS – Small Unmanned Aerial System

 UAV – Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

 UA – Unmanned Aircraft

 UAS – Unmanned Aerial System

 VMCs – Visual Meteorological Conditions

 CFRs – Code of Federal Regulations

 14 CFR – Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Relating to Aviation)

 VFRs – Visual Flight Rules

 PIC – Pilot In Command

 VO – Visual Observer

 FAA – Federal Aviation Administration

DOCUMENT EDITION NUMBER

This Edition of the DMZ Marketing, LLC. sUAS Operations Manual is Edition 1 

and was last updated on July 21, 2015. This Edition of the Operations Manual 

will be current for the 2015-2016 Flight Years. Further Editions of this Manual 

may come in late 2016 or 2017 depending on the FAA’s releasing of a Final Rule 

for commercial sUAS operations within the United States of America. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction............................................................................................................1

Contents.............................................................................................................1

Contact Information...........................................................................................1

Introductory Statement.......................................................................................1

Definitions..............................................................................................................2

Document Edition Number....................................................................................2

Organization...........................................................................................................4

Structure of sUAS Flight Crews........................................................................4

Nominated Personnel.........................................................................................4
3

Responsibility and duties...................................................................................5

PIC .................................................................................................................5

Responsibility and duties of support Team........................................................6

Brief technical description of the UAS..............................................................6

Area of operation ...............................................................................................7

Operating limitations and conditions.................................................................8

Supervision of UAS operations..........................................................................8

Accident prevention...........................................................................................8

Flight team composition ....................................................................................9

Operation of multiple types of UAS ..................................................................9

Qualification requirements Details ....................................................................9

pic...................................................................................................................9

vo .................................................................................................................10

Crew health ......................................................................................................11

Logs and Records Requirements......................................................................11

Operating Procedures...........................................................................................11

Flight planning/preparation..............................................................................11

Determination of the intended tasks and feasibility.........................................12

Operation site location and assessment............................................................12

the type of airspace and specific provisions.................................................12

other aircraft operations...............................................................................12

hazards associated with industrial sites........................................................13

extraordinary restrictions .............................................................................13

permission from land/property owner..........................................................13

weather conditions for the planned flight ....................................................13

Risk management Identification ......................................................................14

Contact number Link for ATC & fAA.............................................................14

Pre-notification ................................................................................................14

obtaining weather forecasts..............................................................................14

Preparation and serviceability..........................................................................14

On site procedures and Pre-flight checks.........................................................15

Site survey Visual check of operating area......................................................15

Selection of operating area...............................................................................15

Cordon procedure.............................................................................................15
4

Communications with other operators.............................................................16

Weather checks................................................................................................16

Refueling Or charging/changing batteries .......................................................16

correct assembly of the UAS ...........................................................................17

Pre-flight checks ..............................................................................................18

Flight procedures .............................................................................................19

Emergency Procedures.....................................................................................19

Loss of control data link ..................................................................................20

Training................................................................................................................20

Visual Observer Training Procedures..............................................................20

Visual Observer Training Guide......................................................................20

Pilot in Command Training Guide...................................................................21

Granted Section 333 Exemption ..........................................................................21

ORGANIZATION

STRUCTURE OF SUAS FLIGHT CREWS

At DMZ Marketing, LLC, each of our flight crews will consist of one Pilot In 

Command (PIC) and at least one Visual Observer (VO). Both the PIC and VO 

will have completed Mandatory sUAS Training by DMZ Marketing, LLC. and 

will have received both 3 hours of classroom training and at least 20 hours of 

real-world flight training. Furthermore, both the PIC and VO will have to have at 

least a valid Class 2 Medical Certificate from the Federal Aviation 

Administration or the equivalent, which currently is a valid U.S. Driver’s 

License. Additionally, each PIC will have to have at least a valid Sport Pilot’s 

Certificate. If representatives of DMZ meet all of these criteria, they are then 

eligible to participate in commercial sUAS flights over the United States of 

America on behalf of DMZ Marketing, LLC.

NOMINATED PERSONNEL

As is stated in the Structure of sUAS Flight Crews, the nominated participants of 

each commercial sUAS flight will be a Pilot In Command and a Visual Observer. 

These personnel will be nominated to their positions based on their 
5

qualifications, training, and eligibility pertaining to required licenses and medical 

status. 

RESPONSIBILITY AND DUTIES

PIC

The PIC is the Captain of a sUAS flight crew at DMZ Marketing, LLC. and with 

that title comes responsibilities and duties. As the captain of the crew the PIC is 

not only responsible for the safe operations of the flight craft but also the 

positioning of the Visual Observer. This positioning is very important as it is up 

to the PIC to select a location for the VO that allows for the VO to have the best 

perspective of the flight area. On top of placing the VO in the right position and 

conducting safe flights, the PIC is also responsible for going through a preflight 

checklist, which includes checking the batteries, props, GPS System, and the like. 

Furthermore, it is imperative that the PIC also determine if the current weather 

conditions provide for a safe flying environment. More clearly, it will be up to 

the PIC, with assistance from the VO, to determine if the VMCs allow for Visual 

Flight Rule Operations. If so, the PIC can conduct the flight but if not, he or she 

should terminate the flight and either wait for better weather or reschedule the 

flight for a different day. Additionally, the PIC is responsible for ensuring;

 Compliance with applicable sections of Title 14 of the Code of Federal 

Regulations (14 CFR) to operate in the NAS,

o http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/textidx?SID=23bdc8482b9526fb3dad5c7daf2f3cdd&mc=true&tpl=/

ecfrbrowse/Title14/14tab_02.tpl

 Compliance with the Petition for Exemption and Granted Section 333 

Exemption,

o Attached Below

 At least an equivalent level of safety as is provided by existing rules and 

regulations for the National Airspace System as developed by the Federal 

Aviation Administration.

VO

The Visual Observer is also an extremely important part of the sUAS flight crew. 

Above all else, the Visual Observer has the responsibility to maintain safe flight 

operations and to ensure; 
6

 Compliance with applicable sections of Title 14 of the Code of Federal 

Regulations (14 CFR) to operate in the NAS,

o http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/textidx?SID=23bdc8482b9526fb3dad5c7daf2f3cdd&mc=true&tpl=/

ecfrbrowse/Title14/14tab_02.tpl

 Compliance with the Petition for Exemption and Granted Section 333 

Exemption,

o Attached Below

 At least an equivalent level of safety as it provided by existing rules and 

regulations for the National Airspace System as developed by the Federal 

Aviation Administration.

RESPONSIBILITY AND DUTIES OF SUPPORT TEAM

While the typical DMZ flight crew will be made up of a Pilot In Command and a 

Visual Observer, it should also be noted that some flights will take place with 

additional support personnel that will help with things like crowd control for 

example. Non-participating personnel should maintain a safe distance from 

participating personnel (in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119) and obviously, 

sometimes additional support personnel may be required to keep nonparticipating parties at a safe distance from the flight crew. The flight crew has 

enough to worry about in order to maintain a safe flight, therefore, additional 

participants may be required to perform basic, non-flight dependent tasks, such 

as crowd control as an example. 

BRIEF TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE UAS

At DMZ Marketing, LLC, our Section 333 Exemption covers the use of 8 main 

aircraft, including;

 DJI Phantom

 DJI Phantom 2

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision +

 DJI Phantom 3 Advanced

 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

 DJI Inspire 1

 DJI Matrice 100

Of these aircraft the DJI Phantom 3 Lineup, the DJI Inspire, and the DJI Matrice 

are typically the systems that a sUAS flight crew will use. Below are links to the 

user manuals of each platform.
7

 DJI Phantom

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom/en/PHANTOM_Advanced

_Manual_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2/en/PHANTOM2_User_

Manual_v1.4_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision

o http://download.dji-innovations.com/downloads/phantom-2-

vision/en/Phantom_2_Vision_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision +

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2_vision_plus/en/Phanto

m_2_Vision_Plus_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Advanced

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Advance

d_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professi

onal_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Inspire 1

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/inspire_1/en/Inspire_1_User_Manu

al_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Matrice 100

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/dev/Matrice/en/M100_User_Manua

l_v1.0_en.pdf

AREA OF OPERATION

DMZ Marketing, LLC. operates throughout the United States and particularly in 

the Midwest, California, Florida, and Texas. For this reason operations will take 

place all over the country. Nonetheless the actual areas of the operations will 

always be governed by Visual Flight Rules and Regulations. 

In order to begin a flight the PIC and VO will have to determine that the VMCs 

are suitable for Visual Flight. From there the actual area of operation will be 

dependent on the visual line of sight distance achievable by the flight crew. This 

visual line of sight distance is determined by how far the flight crew can see with 

their unaided (with the exception of prescription glasses or contacts) eye. It is 
8

imperative that every flight mission include constant visual contact with the 

flight platform. This will ensure safety and more efficient operations. 

OPERATING LIMITATIONS AND CONDITIONS 

All DMZ flights will take place when Visual Meteorological Conditions are such 

that VFR Flights are possible (as opposed to Instrument Rated Flights) within 

Class G Airspace. The following link will take you to the VMC rules and the 

specific distances are listed in Section A.1.

 https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/nas_redesign/regional_guidance/eastern_

reg/nynjphl_redesign/documentation/feis/appendix/media/Appendix_ANational_Airspace_System_Overview.pdf

Generally VFR operations are possible when weather is fair to good and visibility 

is at least 3 Statute Miles (SM). 

Furthermore, safe operations are generally considered possible by DMZ for its 

newest aircraft (DJI Phantom 3 Lineup, DJI Inspire, and DJI Matrice 100) in 

winds not exceeding 20 mph. 

SUPERVISION OF UAS OPERATIONS

In addition to the flight crew operating the flight, it should also be noted that 

multiple flight computer systems will be assisting the crew and supervising the 

operation. The flight controller onboard all DMZ aircraft calculates various 

sensor readings from around the aircraft to make adjustments for wind changes 

and other outside factors. Additionally, telemetry from each flight is collected 

and shared live with the PIC and VO during flights to ensure safe operations. 

The data included in this telemetry are GPS data, speed, distance away from the 

controller, height (AGL), and the like. 

ACCIDENT PREVENTION

In an effort to avoid accidents with any DMZ flight craft, frequent maintenance 

checks are required. With DMZ’s newest aircraft (DJI Phantom 3, DJI Inspire, 

and DJI Matrice) all flights are logged. After each flight, the PIC and VO should 

confirm that a flight log was generated for the flight and upload it to the cloud by 

hitting the cloud icon on the top right corner of the flight application. 

Additionally, these logs should be monitored on a bi-weekly schedule to assess 

for any potential issues that might pop up. Furthermore, these logs should be 
9

used to track overall usage of the system in an effort to estimate component 

failures and replace them before they lead to an accident. 

FLIGHT TEAM COMPOSITION

Each DMZ Flight Team will consist of two crew members, the PIC and the VO, 

as well as the flight craft itself. This flight craft will be one of the following;

 DJI Phantom

 DJI Phantom 2

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision +

 DJI Phantom 3 Advanced

 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

 DJI Inspire 1

 DJI Matrice 100

The most likely flight craft for each commercial operation will be the aboveemphasized vehicles (Phantom 3, DJI Inspire, and DJI Matrice 100). Flights 

utilizing the older generation of flight craft will generally only take place if a 

newer system is not on hand for the commercial operation. 

OPERATION OF MULTIPLE TYPES OF UAS 

In some situations more than one UAS might be operating for a commercial 

purpose. It should be noted that a designated flight team, including the PIC and 

VO can only operate one UAS at a time. Therefore, any operations in which 

multiple craft are used will require more than one flight crew. 

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS DETAILS 

Both the Pilot In Command and Visual Observer are required to meet certain 

qualification requirements. The requirements are listed below for each position.

PIC

The PIC is responsible for the maneuvering of the aircraft and in turn the safe 

operations of the commercial UAS flight. For this reason, he/she must have the 

following qualifications.

 All PICs must have an understanding of Federal aviation regulations 

applicable to the airspace where the UAS will operate (Class G Airspace)
10

o PICs are captains of flight crews

o PICs must NOT perform crew duties for more than one UAS at a 

time

o PICs are not allowed to be both the PIC and VO

 PICs must complete sufficient training to communicate with the VO any 

information required to remain clear of conflicting traffic, terrain, and 

obstructions, maintain proper cloud clearances, and provide navigational 

awareness. 

o Overview 14 CFR: 

 § 91.111, Operating Near Other Aircraft; 

 § 91.113, Right-of-Way Rules: Except Water 

Operations; 

 § 91.115, Right-of-Way Rules: Water Operations; and 

 § 91.155, Basic VFR Weather Minimums; 

 PICs must hold at least a valid Sport Pilot’s Certificate from the FAA 

and a valid Class 2 Medical Certificate or an equivalent, which includes;

o Valid U.S. Driver’s License

VO

The VO is responsible for the visual observance of the aircraft and in turn the 

safe operations of the commercial UAS flight. For this reason, he/she must have 

the following qualifications.

 All observers must have an understanding of Federal aviation regulations 

applicable to the airspace where the UAS will operate (Class G Airspace)

o Observers are considered crewmembers 

o Observers must NOT perform crew duties for more than one 

UAS at a time

o Observers are not allowed to be both the VO and PIC 

 Observers must complete sufficient training to communicate to the pilot 

any information required to remain clear of conflicting traffic, terrain, 

and obstructions, maintain proper cloud clearances, and provide 

navigational awareness. 

o Overview 14 CFR: 

 § 91.111, Operating Near Other Aircraft; 
11

 § 91.113, Right-of-Way Rules: Except Water 

Operations; 

 § 91.115, Right-of-Way Rules: Water Operations; and 

 § 91.155, Basic VFR Weather Minimums; 

 Observers must hold a Valid Class 2 Medical Certificate from the FAA 

or an equivalent, which includes;

o Valid U.S. Driver’s License

CREW HEALTH

The health of the flight crew is necessary for safe UAS operations. For this 

reason all flight crew members will have to hold at least a Valid U.S. Driver’s 

license, which will ensure their capable eyesight. Furthermore, each crew is 

responsible for assessing the health of each crew member individually and in 

turn, determining if each crew member is fit for the operation that day. If there is 

a suspicion of an unfit crew member, the PIC or VO should call off the flight. 

LOGS AND RECORDS REQUIREMENTS

All flight logs will be recorded within the flight app of our newest UA systems. 

These self-reporting systems include the Phantom 3 Series, the Inspire 1, and DJI 

Matrice. For flights including craft outside this list, a manual reporting flight log 

application will be used, such as RPAS Logger Lite, available on the Playstore. 

OPERATING PROCEDURES

FLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION

Prior to each commercial UAS Flight there will be a flight planning meeting. 

This will typically take place the day before the planned flight and the 

information discussed in that meeting will be reviewed prior to flight. The flight 

planning meeting will be a review of the applicable FAA guidelines that will 

have to be followed, a safety brief on the flight, a review of the aircraft to ensure 

it doesn’t need any maintenance or repairs, and finally a Mission Planning 

session in which background maps will be cached using WIFI. Additionally, if 

time allows, the Mission Planning Session may also include the actual flight 

creation on the Mission Planning Software. This will allow for a preloaded flight 

mission prior to arriving at the sight. When arriving at the sight, if any 
12

unforeseen obstacles are in the area, the mission can be altered within the 

Mission Planner Software. 

Furthermore, pre-flight check lists will be completed, a review of the capability 

of the flight crew will be assessed, and VMCs will be noted for safe VFR 

operations. 

DETERMINATION OF THE INTENDED TASKS AND 

FEASIBILITY 

The feasibility of the flight will be considered prior to take off. First, the flight 

crew will determine that they are capable of performing the flight. The factors 

they will assess in this determination will include;

 Health Status

 VMC Status

 Aircraft Status

 Flight Skill and Abilities

If the flight crew finds that they are lacking in one of these areas they should 

terminate the flight. However, if they feel healthy, have good visibility, their 

aircraft is functioning properly, and they have the necessary skills to pull off a 

safe flight, then they should proceed with the operation. 

OPERATION SITE LOCATION AND ASSESSMENT

THE TYPE OF AIRSPACE AND SPECIFIC PROVISIONS

All commercial UAS Flights performed by DMZ will take place in Class G 

airspace and specifically, no more than 400 feet above ground level. 

Furthermore, it will be necessary to have at least 3 statute miles of visibility to 

perform the commercial operations. This is to ensure that the flight can be 

operated under Visual Flight Rules. 

OTHER AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS

In some situations, other aircraft will be operating in the same flight area as the 

DMZ Flight Crew’s UA. These other operations should be noted and it will be 

up to both the PIC and VO to maintain safe operating distances away from these 

aircraft and be ready to conduct evasive maneuvers if necessary. 
13

HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH INDUSTRIAL SITES

It will be the job of both the PIC and VO to assess all potential flight hazards 

prior to a UAS Flight. These hazards include, but are not limited to; 

 Power Lines

 Towers

 Large Structures

 Chemical Waste

 Smoke Stacks

 Etc.

To ensure safe operations it will be important for the PIC and VO not only to 

assess these potential hazards but also create a verbal action plan as to how to 

avoid these obstacles during flight. 

EXTRAORDINARY RESTRICTIONS

Obviously there are some FAA restrictions associated with important airspace. 

These restricted areas are off limits to DMZ flight crews and include areas within 

5 miles of an airport, over Capitol buildings, over College and Professional 

Football Stadiums, and other similar venues. If there is a question as to whether 

certain airspace is restricted, please contact the Federal Aviation Administration. 

PERMISSION FROM LAND/PROPERTY OWNER 

All DMZ Flights will take place only after DMZ secures verbal, written, or 

digital permission from the Land or Property owner of the site below the UA 

operations. 

WEATHER CONDITIONS FOR THE PLANNED FLIGHT

All DMZ flights will take place when Visual Meteorological Conditions are such 

that VFR Flights are possible (as opposed to Instrument Rated Flights) within 

Class G Airspace. The following link will take you to the VMC rules and the 

specific distances are listed in Section A.1.

 https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/nas_redesign/regional_guidance/eastern_

reg/nynjphl_redesign/documentation/feis/appendix/media/Appendix_ANational_Airspace_System_Overview.pdf

Generally VFR operations are possible when weather is fair to good and visibility 

is at least 3 Statute Miles (SM). 
14

Furthermore, safe operations are generally considered possible by DMZ for its 

newest aircraft (DJI Phantom 3 Lineup, DJI Inspire, and DJI Matrice 100) in 

winds not exceeding 20 mph. 

RISK MANAGEMENT IDENTIFICATION

It is imperative that all members of the DMZ Team consider risk management 

when performing their duties. If you see something that you believe is risky, 

please contact upper management about your concerns. The most important 

thing at DMZ is safety and for this reason the company would much rather have 

a risk highlighted and addressed instead of finding out about it after an accident. 

CONTACT NUMBER LINK FOR ATC & FAA

http://acukwik.com/

PRE-NOTIFICATION

If you feel that your operations may cause concern among the general public, be 

sure to notify local law enforcement of your intended flight. This step typically 

does not need to be taken but if you feel that an operation is going to set off 

alarms with the general public you may want to inform the local police and 

provide them with the written permission of the landowner as well as the granted 

Section 333 Exemption linked below.

OBTAINING WEATHER FORECASTS. 

When considering a UAS flight it will be important to ensure that the operations 

are going to be occurring in Visual Meteorological Conditions. In order to 

determine this, a PIC and VO should visually assess the situation as well as 

double check weather forecasts using a local or national weather application, 

such as the Weather Channel App. This will ensure VMCs throughout the entire 

mission. 

PREPARATION AND SERVICEABILITY

In order to ensure safe operations it is vital that all Flight Crews are prepared for 

their flights and perform all pre-flight checks of the aircraft to ensure the aircraft 

is assembled correctly, the batteries are fully charged, and there is a good link 

between the PIC and the aircraft systems. 
15

ON SITE PROCEDURES AND PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS 

While on site for a commercial UAS operation the PIC and VO should perform 

several checks. First they should determine their ability to complete the 

operation in a safe manner. Considerations that will go into this calculation 

include their health on that day and their overall flight skill. Furthermore, the 

PIC and VO should select a safe operating area, clear of hazards and with 

sufficient room. Then the PIC should select a location for the VO so that the VO 

has the best vantage point and view of the operating area. Next, both the PIC and 

VO should go through a Pre-Flight checklist that includes ensuring the batteries 

are charged, a good link between the Pilot and Aircraft, and that the system is 

assembled properly. At the culmination of these checks the mission will be a go 

and the operation will be flown. Upon landing the PIC and VO will ensure both 

the flight data and imagery were logged. Then they will clean up the site so that 

it is the same way they found it and they can move onto their next operation. 

SITE SURVEY VISUAL CHECK OF OPERATING AREA

Prior to flight the PIC and VO should do a visual check of the operating area to 

ensure no obstacles or hazards present a risk to the safe operation of the aircraft. 

If hazards are in the area a determination must be made by the flight crew if the 

hazards warrant not flying that day or if they can be managed by good 

communication between the PIC and VO. 

SELECTION OF OPERATING AREA

The selection of the operating area should include a few considerations. First, 

the operating area should be large enough to accommodate the flight craft. Due 

to the fact that DMZ flight craft are multi-rotors, not much space is necessary due 

to the aircraft’s ability to perform vertical take-offs and landings. 

In addition to making sure there is enough space, it will also be important to 

ensure that both the PIC and VO have a good view of the craft while it is flying. 

This may mean finding high ground to stand on. Remember, it is a requirement 

to have the UAV in visual line of sight at all times and due to this, it will be 

important to find an operating area in which this is possible. 

CORDON PROCEDURE
16

All DMZ flights will be manned by a flight crew consisting of a Pilot In 

Command and a Visual Observer. All other parties who are not considered 

participants will be cordoned off and kept a safe distance from the operating area. 

This distance will be determined based on current FAA rules and regulations and 

particularly, 14 CFR § 91.119, which states an aircraft must not operate within 

500 feet of a person (non-participant). To ensure this, DMZ Flight crews will use 

a rope or verbal commands in situations where there are an abundance of nonparticipants. 

COMMUNICATIONS WITH OTHER OPERATORS

In the situation that a DMZ Flight crew knows it will be operating alongside 

other operators, the DMZ Flight crew will notify the other operator of its flight 

plan and discuss an action plan so as to not interfere with either operation. 

WEATHER CHECKS

All DMZ flights will take place when Visual Meteorological Conditions are such 

that VFR Flights are possible (as opposed to Instrument Rated Flights) within 

Class G Airspace. The following link will take you to the VMC rules and the 

specific distances are listed in Section A.1.

 https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/nas_redesign/regional_guidance/eastern_

reg/nynjphl_redesign/documentation/feis/appendix/media/Appendix_ANational_Airspace_System_Overview.pdf

Generally VFR operations are possible when weather is fair to good and visibility 

is at least 3 Statute Miles (SM). 

Furthermore, safe operations are generally considered possible by DMZ for its 

newest aircraft (DJI Phantom 3 Lineup, DJI Inspire, and DJI Matrice 100) in 

winds not exceeding 20 mph.

REFUELING OR CHARGING/CHANGING BATTERIES

As is stated in the Section 333 Exemption Paperwork linked below;

 No commercial flight missions will be executed unless it can be 

determined that the flight crew can complete their mission from take-off 

through landing, with a reserve of 20% battery life. DMZ’s newest flight 

crafts have adaptive battery monitors and for this reason this condition 
17

will be an automated process as DMZ can set the default Advisory and 

Critical Battery warnings to 30% and 20% respectively, which will warn 

the PIC of the depleted battery and engage him/her to fly home and land 

with 20% remaining power. For all DMZ systems without this 

automated feature, a watch will be used to monitor flight times to ensure 

a safe return home with adequate battery power. 

Thus, it will be important to charge batteries. For proper instructions on how to 

charge each style of battery, please see the linked Section 333 Paperwork below 

and follow the Table of Contents to the battery charging and handling procedures 

for each flight craft type and battery type.

CORRECT ASSEMBLY OF THE UAS

For specific assembly instructions for each of the UAS flight craft used by DMZ, 

please see the following links to the user manuals.

 DJI Phantom

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom/en/PHANTOM_Advanced

_Manual_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2/en/PHANTOM2_User_

Manual_v1.4_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision

o http://download.dji-innovations.com/downloads/phantom-2-

vision/en/Phantom_2_Vision_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision +

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2_vision_plus/en/Phanto

m_2_Vision_Plus_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Advanced

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Advance

d_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professi

onal_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Inspire 1

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/inspire_1/en/Inspire_1_User_Manu

al_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Matrice 100
18

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/dev/Matrice/en/M100_User_Manua

l_v1.0_en.pdf

PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS

Please see the following comprehensive user manuals for each of the specific 

flight craft utilized by DMZ for commercial operations under Section 333. 

Within these manuals you will find operating guidelines that will assist in the 

safe operations of each craft. Furthermore, please see the Quick Start Guides for 

each specific flight craft by following the link below to the Section 333 

Paperwork and then following the Table of Contents to the Quick State Guides. 

 DJI Phantom

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom/en/PHANTOM_Advanced

_Manual_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2/en/PHANTOM2_User_

Manual_v1.4_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision

o http://download.dji-innovations.com/downloads/phantom-2-

vision/en/Phantom_2_Vision_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision +

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2_vision_plus/en/Phanto

m_2_Vision_Plus_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Advanced

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Advance

d_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professi

onal_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Inspire 1

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/inspire_1/en/Inspire_1_User_Manu

al_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Matrice 100

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/dev/Matrice/en/M100_User_Manua

l_v1.0_en.pdf
19

FLIGHT PROCEDURES 

Please see the following comprehensive user manuals for each of the specific 

flight craft utilized by DMZ for commercial operations under Section 333. 

Within these manuals you will find operating guidelines that will assist in the 

safe operations of each craft. Furthermore, please see the Quick Start Guides for 

each specific flight craft by following the link below to the Section 333 

Paperwork and then following the Table of Contents to the Quick State Guides. 

 DJI Phantom

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom/en/PHANTOM_Advanced

_Manual_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2/en/PHANTOM2_User_

Manual_v1.4_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision

o http://download.dji-innovations.com/downloads/phantom-2-

vision/en/Phantom_2_Vision_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 2 Vision +

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_2_vision_plus/en/Phanto

m_2_Vision_Plus_User_Manual_v1.8_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Advanced

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Advance

d_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Phantom 3 Professional

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professi

onal_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Inspire 1

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/inspire_1/en/Inspire_1_User_Manu

al_v1.2_en.pdf

 DJI Matrice 100

o http://download.djiinnovations.com/downloads/dev/Matrice/en/M100_User_Manua

l_v1.0_en.pdf

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
20

In the case of an emergency, such as the loss of communication with the aircraft, 

a battery shortage on the aircraft, a dying battery on the ground station, or the 

like, the aircraft utilized by DMZ have automated fail safes. Specifically, if the 

signal is lost between the PIC and the aircraft the aircraft will automatically 

return home (a predetermined GPS Home Point that is calculated prior to flight). 

Furthermore, if an emergency takes place in which the signal isn’t lost but the 

drone needs to be returned home safely, PICs have the option of engaging an 

auto-return home feature which is shown to them in training. 

In the case of an evasive maneuver emergency, PICs are trained to dive at a 

maximum safe speed to avoid things like manned aircraft or other UAs. 

Typically, the bottom of this dive will be at about 50 feet above ground level and 

it is at this height the PIC will loiter until safe flight operations at a higher 

altitude are again available. 

LOSS OF CONTROL DATA LINK 

In the case of an emergency, such as the loss of communication with the aircraft, 

a battery shortage on the aircraft, a dying battery on the ground station, or the 

like, the aircraft utilized by DMZ have automated fail safes. Specifically, if the 

signal is lost between the PIC and the aircraft the aircraft will automatically 

return home (a predetermined GPS Home Point that is calculated prior to flight). 

Furthermore, if an emergency takes place in which the signal isn’t lost but the 

drone needs to be returned home safely, PICs have the option of engaging an 

auto-return home feature which is shown to them in training.

TRAINING 

VISUAL OBSERVER TRAINING PROCEDURES

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8sknt2zpxhMTTVSYlhCZTF1MEk/view?usp=

sharing

VISUAL OBSERVER TRAINING GUIDE

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8sknt2zpxhMQTYtU0p5UG5kVzQ/view?usp=

sharing
21

PILOT IN COMMAND TRAINING GUIDE

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8sknt2zpxhMakJUMm1ra3NhT3M/view?usp=

sharing

GRANTED SECTION 333 EXEMPTION

Awaiting approval. Once approved, the Granted Exemption and Finalized 

Petition for Exemption will be linked here.