UASolutions Group, Inc.

2518 Auburn Drive, Cocoa FL 32926

Tel: (321) 261-2547

Kellyneubecker@uasolutionsgroup.com

August 4, 2015

U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations

West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590 

Re: Summary Grant Petition for an Exemption to Conduct Small Unmanned Aircraft 

Systems (sUAS) Operations Allowed by Section 333 of the Federal Aviation Administration 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, 49 U.S.C. § 44701(f), and 14 C.F.R. Part 11

A. Summary

On behalf of our clients, Unmanned Vehicle University and pursuant to Section 333 of 

the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (“FMRA”), 

Subsection (f) of 49 U.S.C. § 44701, and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, Unmanned Vehicle University

(UVU), (hereafter known as the “Petitioner”), a University licensed to grant Doctorate and 

Master’s Degrees in Unmanned (Air, Ground, Sea and Space) Systems Engineering and a 

Certificate in UAS Project Management, seeks exemption from the following listed Code of 

Federal Regulations (“CFR”) to allow commercial operation of the previously approved DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire within the National Airspace System (NAS) for controlled, lowrisk, product demonstration and flight training conducted within and under the conditions 

outlined herein, or as may be established by the FAA, as required by Section 333 requirements. 

As described more fully below, the requested exemption would permit the operation of 

the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS by Petitioner under controlled conditions in 

predetermined airspace that is 1) Limited in scope 2) Controlled as to access by mission 

essential personnel only. Approval of this exemption would thereby enhance safety and fulfill 

the Secretary of Transportation’s (the FAA Administrator’s) responsibilities to “...establish 
2

requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system” as 

stated within Section 333(c) of the FMRA. In making this determination, the Secretary is 

required to determine which types of sUAS do not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the 

public or pose a threat to national security in light of the aircraft’s size, weight, speed and 

operational capability; Operation of the sUAS in close proximity to airports and population 

centers; Operation of a sUAS within visual line of sight of the operator.

Grant of the requested exemption is in the public interest based upon the concise 

direction expressed within section 333 of the reform act; the added authority granted by the Act, 

as amended; an equivalent level of safety regarding flight operations as expressed herein, and 

significant cost savings achieved by transitioning from traditional manned aerial resources to 

sUASs. The petitioner respectfully requests that the FAA grant the requested exemption without 

delay. Petitioner will operate the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS while keeping the 

documents required by the regulations at the ground control station and immediately accessible 

to the Pilot in Command (PIC) and by modification of the required markings (registration 

number) of the sUAS to be displayed on the fuselage of the unmanned aircraft.

The name and address of the Petitioner is:

Unmanned Vehicle University. 

The primary contact for this petition, with a copy to me at the address above is:

John Minor 

Unmanned Vehicle University

1 E Washington St Suite 500

Phoenix, AZ 85004

B. Regulations – Exemptions Requested

a. 14 C.F.R. 45.27(a), 

b. 14 C.F.R. 61.113(a) and (b), 

c. 14 C.F.R. 91.7(a), 

d. 14 C.F.R. 91.105, 

e. 14 C.F.R. 91.119(c)

f. 14 C.F.R. 91.121, 

g. 14 C.F.R. 91.151(b), 

h. 14 C.F.R. 91.405(a), 

i. 14 C.F.R. 91.407(a)(1), 

j. 14 C.F.R. 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 

k. 14 C.F.R. 91.417(a) and (b). 
3

C. Corporate Background

Unmanned Vehicle University is the first University in the world licensed to grant 

Doctorate and Master’s Degrees in Unmanned (Air, Ground, Sea and Space) Systems 

Engineering and a Certificate in UAS Project Management as a totally online curriculum. The 

University’s primary focus area is on Unmanned Air, Ground, Sea and Space Systems education 

and training. Most of the faculty at the university have PhDs in engineering and combined 

experience of over 500 years. The university’s UAV instructor pilots have combined experience 

of over 60,000 hours in Predator, Reaper, Global Hawk, Hermes, Heron, Aerostar and many 

small UAVs.

Unmanned Vehicle University offers a complete line of sUAS and unmanned solutions 

with the operational infrastructure to provide product demonstration and flight training in a safe, 

convenient, and legal manner. 

Unmanned Vehicle University’s sUASs for the purposes of this petition are the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire both meet the 

requirements for determination of Summary Grant for exemption as each platform has been 

previously approved by the FAA in numerous other Petitions. All operational manuals have 

been previously submitted and reviewed by the FAA.

Unmanned Vehicle University will operate only within visual line of sight (VLOS) and 

during daylight hours in Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions. Additionally, Unmanned 

Vehicle University will operate only within the parameters defined in the blanket Certificate of 

Authorization (COA) issued by the FAA under the new interim policy. In the event any 

Unmanned Vehicle University operation exceeds the 200 foot limitation imposed by the policy, a 

separate COA specific to the airspace required for that operation will be obtained prior to flight 

operations. Such requirements will insure that the sUAS will “not create a hazard to users of the 

national airspace system or the “public” as stated in Section 333 of the FMRA. 

D. Airworthiness 

A critical element of consideration for grant of the petition is evidence of an equivalent 

level of safety for airworthiness of the sUAS. The FAA has been authorized to exempt aircraft 

from the requirement for an actual airworthiness certificate in accordance with the statutory 

criteria provided in Section 333 of PL 112-95 in reference to 49 USC 44704, in consideration of 
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the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation. , 

Also, in accordance with FAA N 8900.291, Petitioner has an established inspection and 

maintenance program for the continued airworthiness of the aircraft in accordance with the 

manufacture’s maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for 

the aircraft and aircraft components.

Unmanned Vehicle University’s standard operating procedures are detailed within the 

Flight Operation Limitations and Safety section on page 7. 

E. DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire Professional Operational Capabilities

Petitioner seeks an exemption to operate the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire for 

limited approved commercial purposes within the NAS1. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI 

Inspire are multi-rotor sUAS aircraft comprised of a VTOL UA and a transportable GCS. The 

DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire do not carry any flammable propellant or fuel. The sUAS 

also has an integrated GPS system that calculates the UAS's position and height and relays that 

information via a secure connection to the operator. Additionally, the DJI Phantom Series and 

DJI Inspire, have the capability to operate safely after experiencing certain in-flight 

contingencies or failures and uses an auto-pilot system to maintain UAS stability and control. 

The UAS is also able to respond to a loss of GPS or a lost- link event with pre-coordinated 

automated flight maneuvers. 

F. Regulatory Basis for Petition

Petitioner, pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §§ 11.61(b), 11.81, 2and the FAA Modernization and

Reform Act of 2012 (“FMRA”), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft

Systems (“Section 333”), hereby respectfully petitions the Administrator for an exemption from

the requirements of 14 C.F.R. §§, 45.27(a), 61.113(a) and (b), 91.7(a), 91.105, 91.119(c), 91.121, 

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

1. Section 333 

Congress identifies Section 333 of the FMRA, as a pathway for “expedited operational 

 

1 Unmanned Vehicle University will submit Aircraft Registration Applications as required, upon the 

grant of the exemptions sought by this petition.

2

14 C.F.R. § 11.61(b) (“Using a petition for exemption, you may ask FAA to grant you relief from 

current regulations in 14 C.F.R.”), 14 C.F.R. § 11.81 (“What information must I include in my 

petition for an exemption”)?
5

authorization” of certain sUAS in the NAS. Section 333 (b)(1) (“expedited operational 

authorization.”).

3

 Under Section 333 Congress mandates that the FAA “shall determine if certain 

unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system before completion 

of the plan and rulemaking required by Section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by 

section 334 of this Act” (Section 333(a)) upon consideration of its “size, weight, speed, operational 

capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight.” 

Section 333(b)(1). If the FAA makes such a determination, the FAA “shall [also] establish 

requirements for the safe operation.” Section 333(c). The FAA further may find that the sUAS does 

not require “airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code.” Section 

333(b)(2).

2. 49 U.S.C. § 44701

The FAA is further authorized to grant exemptions from its safety regulations and 

minimum standards under 49 U.S.C. § 44701 (“Section 44701”) “if the Administrator finds 

the exemption is in the public interest.” Section 44701(f)4(authorizing the grant of 

exemptions from safety regulations and minimum standards under Section 44701(a) and (b) and 

Sections 44702-44716).5

For the reasons addressed herein, this Petition qualifies for expedited approval of 

Petitioner’s request for exemption under both Section 333 of the FMRA and 49 U.S.C § 44701.

G. DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire Statutory Criteria for Exemption under

Section 333

Given its small size, light weight, slow speed, limited load capacity, superior 

operational capabilities, and that the operations will be conducted only during the day, under 

visual meteorological conditions (“VMC”), within VLOS of the PIC, with the assistance of a 

visual safety observer (“VO”), and confined within the boundaries of a consenting landowner’s 

 

3 See also www.faa.gov/sUAS/legislative_programs/section_333/ (noting that Section 333 grants 

the FAA “the statutory flexibility to expedite requirements for the safe operation of certain aircraft

systems in the NAS.”).

4 Under 49 U.S.C. § 44701(f), the “Administrator may grant an exemption from a requirement

of a regulation prescribed under subsection (a) or (b) of this section or any of sections 44702-

44716 of [Title 49] if the Administrator finds the exemption is in the public interest.”

5 See e.g. 49 USC §44711(a)(1) prohibiting operations without airworthiness certificate; (2) 

prohibiting serving as airman without airman’s certificate; (5) prohibiting commercial operations in 

violation of regulations); 49 USC §44704 (issuance of airworthiness certificate); 14 C.F.R. §91.203

(a)(1) (carry airworthiness certificate)).
6

property and not in the proximity of airports or populated areas, the DJI Phantom Series and 

DJI Inspire is the very category of sUAS that qualifies for expedited approval under Section 

333.

1. Proximity to Airports/Population Centers or Areas

Flight operations pursuant to this Petition will be tightly controlled and restricted to

low risk areas and in accordance with the blanket 200-foot COA requirements at an altitude of no 

more than 200 feet above ground level (AGL). In the event a Unmanned Vehicle University 

operation is required to exceed the 200-foot limitation imposed by the policy, a separate COA 

specific to the airspace required for that operation will be obtained prior to operations at an 

altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL. All altitudes reported to ATC will be in AGL when 

required and any operations conducted within 5 nautical miles (NM) of the geographic center of 

a non-towered airport will obtain a Letter of Agreement with the appropriate airport management 

and made available to FAA upon request. In addition, access to any property will be limited to 

persons associated with and necessary to flight operations.

2. Visual Line-of-Sight

The minimum crew for each operation will consist of a PIC and VO. The VO will be 

used as an additional mitigation to satisfy the VLOS requirement, but the PIC will always 

maintain VLOS with the sUAS. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire will at all times be 

flown by Petitioner only in the daytime (not at night) under VMC, within VLOS of the PIC,

with the further assistance of the VO with whom the PIC will have the ability for direct and 

continuous two-way verbal communications

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so as to ensure that the flight operations remain 

within the PIC’s VLOS and prescribed flight boundaries and de-conflict with objects in the 

air and on the ground. Thus, pursuant to the FAA Order 8900.1 Volume 16, Chapter 1, Section 

3, the proposed operations will provide an approved method of control and collision avoidance 

to satisfy the “see and avoid” requirement of 14 C.F.R. § 91.113:

Only qualified and current PIC’s and VOs will be used.

3. Other Factors

a. DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire Safety Systems 

 

6 PIC and VO are within speaking distance and all communications between PIC and VO will be 

without communications equipment
7

Petitioner proposes that requirements should take into account the characteristics of these 

particular sUASs. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire is characterized by a high degree of 

pre-programmed control, various built-in technical capabilities that limit the potential for 

operation outside of the operating conditions as set forth below, and many built-in functional, 

safety and redundancy features to ensure a safe and reliable operation. At a minimum: geofencing at a maximum ceiling of 200’or 400' AGL, flight programming capabilities, a flight 

termination link available to the operator to prevent a "fly away," and safe abort procedures. If 

the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire loses communications or its GPS signal, it will return to 

a pre-determined location and land or be recovered in accordance with the User’s Manual. The 

DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire will have markings identifying the serial number and 

identification (N-number) markings as large as practicable. Further, Unmanned Vehicle 

University operations will comply with all manufacturer Safety Bulletins. 

b. Safety Management System

A Safety Management System (SMS) approach will regulate Petitioner’s operation of 

the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire and will significantly contribute to maintaining the level

of safety contemplated by the airworthiness certificate requirements from which Petitioner now 

seeks relief.

Pursuant to the SMS and 14 C.F.R. § 43.13, entitled Performance Rules (general), each 

person performing maintenance, alteration, or preventive maintenance on the DJI Phantom 

Series and DJI Inspire, motor, propeller, or appliance shall use the methods, techniques, and

practices prescribed in the current manufacturer's User’s Manual or Instructions for Continued

Airworthiness prepared by its manufacturer, or other methods, techniques, and practices

acceptable to the Administrator. Each person shall use the tools and equipment necessary to

assure completion of the work in accordance with accepted industry practices.

c. Flight Operation Limitations and Safety

In seeking this exemption, Petitioner proposes to operate the DJI Phantom Series and DJI 

Inspire pursuant to the following specific operating limitations: 

1. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire all weigh less than 55 pounds, fully 

loaded.

2. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall only be operated at or below 200 

ft AGL, unless a separate COA specific to the airspace required for that operation is 

obtained prior to operations at an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL.
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3. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall be operated within VLOS of the

PIC and safety VO.

4. The radio frequencies used for operations and control of the UAS (2.4GHz) will 

comply with the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") or other 

appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

5. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall be operated pursuant to Day Visual

Flight Rules (VFR) in visual meteorological conditions (VMC). The DJI Phantom 

Series and DJI Inspire shall be operated only during daylight hours (i.e. between

the end of morning civil twilight and the beginning of evening civil twilight, as

published in the American Air Almanac, converted to local time).

6. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall operate from on-site takeoff/landing

locations directly next to the PIC and co-located VO. The PIC and the VO shall be 

able to verbally communicate during all operations. 

7. Operations shall be conducted by certificated airmen who possess either a 

commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate.

8. The PIC will be a FAA licensed airman and will hold a current airman medical 

certificate or valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a state, the District of Colombia, 

Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government. The PIC will also 

meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which 

the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate. 

9. The PIC shall have successfully completed the training and qualification processin 

accordance with DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire Pilot Training Guide. PIC 

qualification flight hours and currency will be logged in a manner consistent with 14 

CFR § 61.51(b). Training operations will only be conducted during dedicated training 

sessions. 

10. A minimum of three take-offs and three landings in the preceding 90 days will 

be required by the PIC to maintain currency, such log of which shall be made 

available to the Administrator upon request.

11. All operations will utilize a VO. The UA will be operated within the VLOS of the

PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as 

long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO and PIC will be able

to communicate verbally at all times; electronic messaging or texting is not 
9

permitted during flight operations. The PIC will be designated before the flight and 

cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC will 

ensure that the VO can perform the duties required of the VO.

12. The UA will be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all 

times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any 

device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued airman 

medical certificate or U.S. driver’s license.

13. If a pilot certificate holder other than the PIC, who possesses the necessary PIC 

qualifications, is also present during flight operations, that person can also be 

designated as PIC and will follow the necessary procedures to assume control.

14. A briefing will be conducted in regard to the planned operations prior to each 

flight. It will be mandatory that all personnel who are performing duties within 

the boundaries of the flight operations safety perimeter be present for the 

briefing.

15. Petitioner will obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued COA prior to 

conducting any actual flight operations. Unmanned Vehicle University will only 

operate within the guidelines of the blanket 200-foot COA under the FAA’s 

interim policy. For flights above 200 feet AGL, Unmanned Vehicle University

will operate in a confined geographic area as defined by a separate approved 

ATO issued COA.

16. Petitioner will file a NOTAM for each flight at least 24 hours in advance of each 

flight with the appropriate FSDO.

17. Any operations that will be conducted within 5 nautical miles (NM) of the 

geographic center of a non-towered airport will obtain a Letter of Agreement 

with the appropriate airport management and made available to FAA upon 

request.

18. Prior to flight operations, Petitioner shall coordinate 1 hour ahead of the proposed 

flight a communication with the nearest local Air Traffic Control facility 

indicating location, altitude and duration of the proposed flight.

19. 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 at least 12 hours in advance of any flight 
10

operation.

20. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall be marked with an identification (NNumber) in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 45.23, such markings to be as large as 

practicable pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 45.29(f), and identified by a serial number 

registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 47.

21. All flights will 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.

22. Flights will not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet 

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

PIC.

23. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall be operated at an airspeed not to 

exceed 50 knots.

24. Any time the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire is operating, all documents 

required under 14 C.F.R. § 91.9 and § 91.203 shall be available to the PIC at the 

GCS. Such documents shall be made available to the Administrator or any law 

enforcement official upon request. 

25. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall not be operated directly over any 

person, except authorized and consenting personnel required for flight/imaging 

operations, 

26. The radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the DJI Phantom 

Series and DJI Inspire shall comply with the requirements of DJI Phantom Series 

and DJI Inspire manuals. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall at all 

times be operated to ensure a safe distance away from all participating and nonparticipating personnel, at least 500 feet away from persons not involved in the 

flight operations (non-participating persons) unless: 

 Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating 

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

must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a 

situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are 

within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately in a 

manner ensuring the safety of nonparticipating persons.
11

 The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted 

permission for operating closer to those objects and the PIC has made a 

safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and 

determined that it does not present an undue hazard.

27. The flight will be terminated at 20% battery power reserve. 

28. Prior to each flight, the PIC shall inspect the DJI Phantom Series and DJI 

Inspire, including any inoperable components, items or equipment, to ensure it 

is in an airworthy condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition 

that affects flight readiness or safe operations, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI 

Inspire shall not be operated until the necessary maintenance has been 

performed and it is found to be in a condition for safe flight. Any discrepancies 

and all maintenance or alterations shall be documented in the aircraft records, 

such records to be made available to the Administrator upon request.

29. Except as may be designated otherwise for Fail-Safe operations, the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall take off and land at a location within the 

boundaries of the subject property next to the PIC.

30. Upon loss of communication or GPS signal, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI 

Inspire shall return to a predetermined location within the boundaries of the 

landowner’s property and land or be recovered in accordance with the User’s 

Manual. 

31. In the event of an emergency or unanticipated obstacle to planned operations, 

the operation shall be aborted and the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire, if 

airborne, shall return to a predetermined location.

32. The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire shall be maintained in accordance with

the manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life 

limit requirements for the aircraft and aircraft components and in accordance 

with FAA N 8900.291. 

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

permission from the property owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

34. Any incident, accident or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 
12

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA shall be 

reported to the FAA’s UAS Integration Office within 24 hours. Accidents shall 

also be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Further 

flight operations shall not be conducted until the incident, accident or 

transgression is reviewed by the UAS Integration Office and authorization to 

resume operations is provided.

d. Privacy 

All Unmanned Vehicle University sUAS operations will be conducted in accordance 

with applicable Federal, State, and local laws regarding privacy. All operations shall be 

conducted over private or controlled-access property with permission from the land/building 

owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or 

authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted. 

e. Physical Security

In order to ensure its safe and proper use, Petitioner will be the only operator of the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire and the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire will at all times 

remain in Petitioner’s custody.

4. .Lack of Threat to the NAS, Public, or National Security 

For the reasons previously addressed, including meeting Section 333(b)(1) criteria, 

Petitioner’s record of safety and the small size of the sUAS involved and the controlled sterile 

area within which they will operate, Petitioner falls squarely within that zone of safety (an 

equivalent level of safety) in which Congress envisioned that the FAA must, by exemption, 

allow commercial operations of sUASs to commence immediately. Petitioner will operate the 

DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire in accordance with the aforementioned flight limitations 

without creating a hazard to other aircraft or persons or property on the ground. The fact that each 

PIC will be required to be screened by the Department of Homeland Security, approval of the petition 

presents no threat to national security. Further, given its small size and limit load capacity, the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS is incapable of carrying any substantial external load, 

including explosive materials or flammable liquids. 

For all of these reasons, Petitioner’s proposed operations using the DJI Phantom Series and 

DJI Inspire qualify for expedited approval of the sought exemption pursuant to Section 333 for the 

specified uses and under the proposed operating requirements and restrictions.
13

H. Public Interest Benefits 

Granting Petitioner’s request for exemption would benefit the public and have no 

adverse effect on safety for the following reasons. 

1. Public Interest Generally

The grant of the requested exemption is in the public interest based on the clear direction 

in Section 333 and 49 U.S.C. § 44701(f), the equivalent and enhanced level of safety of the

proposed operations, the significant public benefit, and cost savings to be realized as a result of 

the use of sUAS for product demonstration and training services. Moreover, the FAA has 

previously granted identical exemptions for sUAS.

7 The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire are

battery powered sUASs that serves as a safer, more efficient, and economical alternative to larger 

and heavier manned aircraft carrying flammable liquid fuels, traditionally use for aerial 

photography or aerial surveying. This will provide for an added superior level of safety to 

persons and property in the air and on the ground than that provided by manned aircraft 

performing the same operations. No pilot or crew need be airborne and granting the exemption 

would also decrease the number of manned aircraft in the NAS and, as a result, reduce 

congestion as well as the environmental impact of such operations. Using the DJI Phantom Series 

and DJI Inspire also provides the benefit of greater operational flexibility and reduced cost when 

compared to manned aircraft.

a. Increased Aircrew Safety and Reduced Risk to Persons/Property On Ground

Because the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire is unmanned, the proposed operations

eliminate the risk to pilot and crew associated with flying such aerial-surveying missions in confined 

airspace at low altitude. Further, given its small size and weight and low airspeed, using the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire also reduces the risk of damage or injury to persons or property on 

the ground, and in the air, were there to be an unforeseen mishap. 

b. Reduced Environmental Impact

Using the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS instead of manned aircraft also benefits

the public by eliminating or greatly reducing air and noise pollution associated with traditional

aerial imaging operations. Because it is battery powered and uses electric motors, the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS consumes no fuel, generates no air pollution, and creates 

 

7 Unmanned Vehicle University requests that the FAA not solicit public comment on its petition 

because it would not set any new precedent and because the relief requested is identical to 

exemptions granted previously. 14 C.F.R. § 11.87.
14

very little noise. As a result, the public is benefited as a result of reduced environmental impact, 

reduced operator and other human exposure, and greater fuel conservation, which serves

additionally to support our Government’s specific efforts to reduce the U.S.’s carbon footprint.8

c. Fewer Manned Aircraft in the NAS and Reduced Need for ATC Handling

The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire also does not require a runway or helipad to

takeoff or land and will not be operated within the close proximity of any airports without prior 

FAA approval. As such, fewer aircraft will need to be handled by air traffic control during

ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases. Operations pursuant to this Petition will 

further reduce the number of manned aircraft flying or transiting at or above 500’ AGL to and 

from the areas of imaging operations as well as congestion around airports due to aircraft arrival 

and departure.

d. Superior Aerial Imagery and Increased Benefit to U.S. Economy

Better aerial footage can also be obtained using the small and nimble DJI Phantom Series and 

DJI Inspire than can be obtained using manned aircraft or other ground-based methods. Due to its 

small size and superior flight performance characteristics, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire

allows for images to be taken from certain locations and angles and with better precision than using 

manned aircraft. As a result, less time is needed in the air to obtain the desired footage, which in 

addition to providing the benefit of fewer aircraft in the NAS and associated reduced risk to objects 

and persons and property in the air and on the ground, reduced noise, etc., allows for the production 

of surveys, which benefits consumers. This additionally ensures that companies such as Unmanned 

Vehicle University and its customers remain competitive and profitable, thereby providing their 

employees greater job stability, which ultimately contributes further to the U.S. economy through 

increased consumer spending. 

e. Increased Operational Flexibility and Reduced Cost

Using the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire also provides the benefit of greater

operational flexibility and reduced cost when compared to manned aircraft. Instead of each time 

having to hire a manned aircraft at thousands of dollars/hour, subject to the pilot’s schedule and 

availability, Petitioner can operate the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire, which it has purchased 

and outfitted at lower combined cost, innumerable times and at the convenience of Petitioner’s and 

its customer’s schedules.

 

8 Reducing the U.S.’s carbon footprint is a high priority and consistent with the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency’s regulatory efforts to phase out the use of fossil fuels. 
15

2. No Adverse Safety Effects

Granting this Petition will also not adversely affect aviation safety or pose any undue 

risks to the public. The operations pursuant to this Petition will be in accordance with 

+0approved processes and checklists and in compliance with all applicable FAA safety policies 

and guidance. Accordingly, and as detailed herein, granting the requested exemption would 

not adversely affect safety. Indeed, as detailed below, operations pursuant to the limitations 

and guidelines addressed herein and the safety procedures, Petitioner will provide an 

equivalent level of safety to those regulations from which Petitioner seeks exemption. The 

FAA has also recently set precedence by granting exemptions with similar aerial photography, 

imaging, and surveying parameters in all material respects, to those presented herein. For these 

reasons, Unmanned Vehicle University’s operations pursuant to this Petition also qualify for an 

exemption. 

I. Exemptions Sought By Petitioner and Reasons for the Requested Relief

Pursuant to Section 333, Petitioner seeks an exemption from the requirements of 14 

C.F.R. §§ 45.27(a), 61.113(a) and (b), 91.7(a), 91.105, 91.119(c), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 

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

1. Section 45.27(a). Location of marks; non fixed-wing aircraft.

Section 45.27, entitled Location of marks; nonfixed-wing aircraft, subsection (a) states 

(emphasis added):

(a) Rotorcraft. 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.

To the extent subsection 45.27(a) may be deemed to apply to the DJI Phantom Series and 

DJI Inspire sUAS, Petitioner seeks an exemption from the subsection (i.e., that the marks be

displayed on both surfaces of the cabin, fuselage, boom, or tail) because the DJI Phantom Series 

and DJI Inspire sUAS is of insufficient size to accommodate any such marking. Thus marking 

the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS as required by this subsection would not be 

possible.

An equivalent level of safety can be provided instead by marking the DJI Phantom 

Series and DJI Inspire sUAS, as may be applicable, with lettering as large as practicable (14 

C.F.R. § 45.29(f)) on its largest available surface so as to permit such marking to be 

displayed to pilot, crew, and others.
16

2. Section 61.113(a) and (b). Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in 

command.

Petitioner seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. 61.113(a) and (b). Section 61.113, entitled

Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) state 

(emphasis added):

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (h) of this section, no person who 

holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft that is 

carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, 

for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft.

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

aircraft in connection with any business or employment if:

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or 

hire.

In general, subsections 61.113 (a) and (b) prohibit a private pilot from conducting 

commercial operations. Petitioner seeks exemption from the subsections because the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire will not carry a pilot, passengers or property (other than a 

camera). As addressed, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire is a very light, remotely 

controlled sUAS with no persons or property on board. Each flight is planned and fully 

coordinated in advance. Thus the risk associated with the proposed operations is so diminished

from that associated with commercial operations contemplated by Part 61, that allowing a PI C 

having a private pilot certificate, rather than a commercial certificate, met the minimum flight 

hour and qualification criteria, and operating according to the limitations and guidelines 

provided herein, provides a level of safety that exceeds that provided by a pilot having a 

commercial certificate operating a conventional aircraft as required under the regulations.

The FAA has already set precedence by previously granted exemptions in circumstances

similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein. 

3. Section 91.7(a). Civil Aircraft Airworthiness.

Either finding that Petitioner meets the Section 333 criteria or exemption from the 

airworthiness certification requirement under 14 C.F.R. Part 21 renders subsection 91.7(a) 

inapplicable. 
17

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a) states (emphasis added):

“No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.” There is no FAA 

standard by which such a determination of airworthiness can be made. Nonetheless, given the

limitations and procedures, as contained herein, the Safety Procedures contained within the 

SOP, and the Maintenance Manual, for maintaining the aircraft and checking it before each 

flight to ensure that it is in peak operational condition, an equivalent level of safety will be

provided.

4. Section 91.105. Flight crewmembers at stations.

Petitioner seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. 91.105. Section 91.105, entitled Flight 

crewmembers at stations, states (emphasis added):

(a) During takeoff and landing, and while en route, each required flight 

crewmember shall—

(1) Be at the crewmember station unless the absence is necessary to 

perform duties in connection with the operation of the aircraft or in 

connection with physiological needs; and

(2) Keep the safety belt fastened while at the crewmember station.

(b) Each required flight crewmember of a U.S.-registered civil aircraft shall, 

during takeoff and landing, keep his or her shoulder harness fastened while at his 

or her assigned duty station. This paragraph does not apply if—

(1) The seat at the crewmember's station is not equipped with a shoulder 

harness; or,

(2) The crewmember would be unable to perform required duties with the 

shoulder harness fastened.

In general, Section 91.105 requires pilot and crew to be at their duty stations and 

harnessed during flight. Petitioner seeks exemption from the Section 91.105 because the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS is by definition an unmanned aircraft, having neither pilot 

nor crew so as to be stationed or harnessed as required by the regulation. An equivalent or even 

higher level of safety can be provided instead by using an unmanned aircraft controlled by a PIC 

who at all times is located at and controls the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire from the GCS. 

5. Section 91.119(c). Minimum safe altitudes.

Petitioner seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. 91.119(c). Section 91.119, entitled Minimum 
18

safe altitudes: General, subsection (d) states (emphasis added):

Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft 

below the following altitudes:

(c) Over other than congested areas. An altitude of 500 feet above the surface, 

except over open water or sparsely populated areas. In those cases, the aircraft 

may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or 

structure.

Section 91.119(c) establishes safe altitudes for operation of civil aircraft over other than 

congested areas. Petitioner seeks exemption from subsection 91.119(c) because, pursuant to this 

Petition, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS will at times be operated either at or 

below 200 or 400 feet AGL.

An equivalent or even higher level of safety can be provided instead by, as provided 

herein, operating so as to de-conflict with manned vehicles operating above 500 feet AGL, within

the VLOS of the PIC with the assistance of a VO so as to ensure the safety of and de-confliction 

with any persons or property in the air and on the ground, including participating and nonparticipating personnel, 100 feet and 500 feet, respectively, away from who the UA would 

generally be restricted. Further the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS flight operations 

will be monitored at all times by both the PIC and VO and will be in compliance with local

public safety requirements, so as to prevent access to the restricted areas of operation. 

The FAA has set precedence by previously granted exemptions in circumstances similar,

in all material respects, to those presented herein.

6. Section 91.121. Altimeter settings.

Petitioner seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. 91.121. Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter 

settings, requires each person operating an aircraft to maintain cruising altitude by reference to 

an altimeter that is set “...to the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter 

setting available before departure.” Petitioner seeks exemption from Section 91.121 because the 

DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS does not use or have on board a typical barometric 

altimeter as contemplated by the regulation. 

Note: An equivalent level of safety will be provided instead, by operating the sUAS at 

or below 400 feet AGL, within the VLOS of the PIC (with the assistance of a VO), with altitude 

information downlinked from the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire to the PIC to maintain 
19

altitude and ensure safety. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude/AGL will be established at the 

launch site, as confirmed for accuracy by the PIC. 

7. Section 91.151(b). Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions.

Petitioner seeks an exemption from 14 C.F.R. 91.151(b). Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel 

requirements for flight in VFR conditions, states (emphasis added):

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

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

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

after that for at least 20 minutes.

The DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire is an unmanned aircraft, and thus would not 

begin a flight with a person in it as the regulation contemplates. To the extent the regulation 

applies to the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire has a 

maximum flight duration of 18 minutes, depending upon atmospheric conditions and type of 

camera or sensor. 

An equivalent level of safety can be achieved by terminating the flight at 20% battery 

power reserve or 3 minutes whichever occurs first, as provided in the SOP. Given that the DJI 

Phantom Series and DJI Inspire will be operated within the VLOS of the PIC, within the confines 

of the particular landowner’s property with prior written consent of the landowner and 

participating and non-participating personnel, this restriction would provide more than enough 

battery reserve to accommodate a safe return to the landing zone from anywhere in the 

operating area with no adverse effect on the safety of persons and property in the air or on the 

ground. 

The FAA has set precedence by previously granted exemptions in circumstances similar,

in all material respects, to those presented herein. 

8. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(2), 91.417(a) and (b). Maintenance 

inspections and recording.

Section 91.405(a), entitled Maintenance required, states:

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

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

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

section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter;
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Section 91.407(a)(1), entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, 

or alteration, states:

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

preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless—

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

§ 43.7 of this chapter;

Section 91.409 (a)(2), entitled Inspections, states:

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an 

aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had—

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

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

of this chapter; or

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

accordance with part 21 of this chapter.

No inspection performed under paragraph (b) of this section may be substituted 

for any inspection required by this paragraph unless it is performed by a person 

authorized to perform annual inspections and is entered as an “annual” inspection 

in the required maintenance records.

Section 91.417(a) and (b), entitled Maintenance records, state:

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each 

registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods 

specified in paragraph (b) of this section:

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and 

records of the 100-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved 

inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and each 

engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include—

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of 

the work performed; and

(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the 

aircraft for return to service.
21

(2) Records containing the following information:

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, 

and each rotor.

(ii) The current status of life-limited parts of each airframe, engine, 

propeller, rotor, and appliance.

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which 

are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis.

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since 

the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the 

aircraft and its appliances are maintained.

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and 

safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or 

safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive 

involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is 

required.

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each 

major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, 

propellers, and appliances.

(b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods 

prescribed:

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until 

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

performed.

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and 

transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold.

(3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of 

this chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is 

approved for return to service.

In general, these regulations require that an airworthy certificated aircraft be inspected as

prescribed in 14 C.F.R. Part 91, Subpart E (Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, and 

Alterations), any discrepancies be repaired and the aircraft be approved for return to service as
22

prescribed in Part 43 (Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alterations) and 

that any work on the aircraft be recorded and such records maintained. 

Petitioner seeks an exemption because, as addressed, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI 

Inspire sUAS will operate pursuant to this Petition without airworthiness certification. An 

equivalent level of safety can be provided instead by requiring, as provided herein, that 

inspections and maintenance be accomplished according to the inspection, maintenance, and 

preflight sections IAW the manufacturer’s guidance in the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire

User’s Manual. Among other things, the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire will be inspected 

prior to each flight to confirm that it is in good working order. Any maintenance or repairs will 

be perform and logged, and, upon any work being performed on the DJI Phantom Series and 

DJI Inspire, it will be checked and approved for flight by personnel before being returned to 

service. 

The FAA has already set precedence by previously granted exemptions in circumstances 

similar, in all material respects, including airframe types, to those presented herein. 

J. Conclusion

As set forth in the document above, the following summary is provided for publication 

in the Federal Register. Petitioner seeks an exemption pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, 49 U.S.C. § 44701(f), and 14 C.F.R. Part 11 to permit 

safe operation of the DJI Phantom Series and DJI Inspire sUAS commercially, for the purposes 

of low-risk, product demonstration and flight training. By granting this Petition, the FAA 

Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of Section 333 of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 to expedite approval of operations of certain sUAS in 

the NAS, while also advancing the interests of the public.

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Title 49 of the United States Code, the Code of 

Federal Regulations, and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, 

Petitioner respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from 

the requirements of 14 C.F.R. §§ 45.27(a), 61.113(a) and (b), 91.7(a), 91.105, 91.119(c), 

91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (b), and 91.417(a) and (b).
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cc: John Minor