HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

COA Process Guide

HoneyComb Corporation

AgDroneTM System (2015 Edition)

Agricultural Scouting & Mapping System

Introduction

HoneyComb is committed to serving its customers and assisting with the Federal Aviation 

Administration’s (FAA) Certificate of Authorization (COA) process. The guide provides a starting point 

concerning technical specifications and operational procedures; however, customers will need to provide 

specific information and augment/modify components of the application to match their proposed use case.

FAA Jurisdiction

The guide is intended for customers operating within the United States under FAA jurisdiction. 

Customers outside the United States or operating under conditions exempt from FAA jurisdiction should 

consider seeking outside counsel. HoneyComb can provide further assistance at the customer’s request.

Reference Material

The FAA provides information on its website relating to the COA process. A sample application and 

additional information is provided here. We encourage our customers to review the site for the latest 

information.

All information is provided without warranty and is subject to change. This document is 

provided for informational purposes and is not legally binding.

Please contact COA@honeycombcorp.com for updates and/or the latest revision.
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

§ 1: Proponent Information*

Select from populated proponent list or include new information. 

Please review requirements for proponent qualification or seek legal counsel to assist with classification.

*HoneyComb can refer further assistance on this section/subsection. 

§ 2: Point of Contact Information*

Indicate who will be the primary contact for working through the process.

* HoneyComb can refer further assistance on this section/subsection. 

§ 3: Operational Description

This section provides details on when, where, and how the aircraft will be operated.

Request Effective Period

Please check with the FAA for allowable duration. The end date may not be more than 2 years in the 

future.

Operational Conditions

Light Out Operation: No

VFR Operation: Yes

IFR Operation: No

Day Operation: Yes

Night Operation No

Class of Airspace

Class “A”: No

Class “B”: No

Class “C”: No

Class “D”: No

Class “E”: No

Class “G”: Yes

Other Subsections*

Location, Program Executive Summary, Operational Summary

HoneyComb’s system is designed for agricultural and forestry applications. Other industries may include 

surveying, mining, offshore, mineral & gas exploration, environmental monitoring, and others.

HoneyComb’s systems are not designed for surveillance or military applications.

* HoneyComb can refer further assistance on this section/subsection. 
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

§ 4: System Description

The AgDroneTM system is classified as a small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS). It flies autonomously 

via an autopilot onboard. The sUAS can also be forced into fly-by-wire (semi-autonomous) mode which 

allows the operator to send commands to the aircraft via an RC transmitter while still operating within 

some stability parameters from the autopilot.

The system includes multiple cameras, autopilot, GPS, electronic speed controller, radios, antennas, 

computer, RC transmitter, batteries, chargers, maintenance parts, mission planning and data management 

software, and user manuals. Specifications and other details of the AgDroneTM system’s significant 

components are listed in the table below.

Physical Specifications

Wing Fixed-wing

Weight 4.75 lb. (fully loaded)

Wing span 49 in.

Dimensions (max) 49 X 14.5 X 5.4 in.

Airframe material (internal) Expanded polystyrene

Airframe material (external) Kevlar-composite exoskeleton

Internal structure PVC frame

Powerplant System

Motor type Brushless electric pusher

Power class 575 W

Propeller APC 10x6 electric

Speed control Electronic, automatic

Battery

Type Lithium-polymer

Cell count 3S

Nomial voltage 11.1 V

Capacity 8000 mAH

Charge station Multi-port LiPo charger (pre-programmed)

Imaging system

Visible 16.0 MP

Multispectral 16.0 MP (NDVI modified)

Coverage (400 ft. altitude) 858 acres per flight

Ground resolution (400 ft. altitude) 1.26 in.

Data storage Micro SD card 8 GB

Trigger method Automatic, simultaneous (dual)

Radio Communications

Mission planning computer Windows OS

RC transmitter DSMX 2.4 GHz

Telemetry antenna 3DR 915 MHz
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

Flight Modes & Automation

Automatic (auto) Operator commands enabled (restricted by autopilot)

Fly-by-wire (FBWA) Operator commands enabled (restricted by autopilot)

Return-to-launch (RTL) Operator commands enabled (restricted by autopilot)

Lost-link Default to RTL (no communications)

Software 

Flight path creation Operator 

Flight path guidance Automatic 

Autonomous flight stability Pre-planned waypoints

Autonomous landing Pre-planned waypoints

Fail-safe routines Battery usage, radio link, operator command

Data transfer HoneyComb Connect

Operations

System setup time 5-10 min.

Launch method Hand-throw (launcher capable)

Takeoff Angle 12 deg.

Landing method Belly-skid

Landing surface Flat ground - grass, graded dirt, gravel, pavement

Recommended landing space 100 x 400 ft.

Minimum landing space 15 x 60 ft.
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

Significant system components are shown below.

Figure 1: AgDroneTM system, Rugged Case, Parts & 

Accessories

Figure 2: Windows Tablet for Mission Planning & 

Flight Monitoring

Figure 3: RC Transmitter

(fly-by-wire controls) DX6i.

Figure 4: 3DR 915MHz Telemetry Radio.

Figure 5: LiPo Battery Charge Station Figure 6: LiPo Batteries & Protective Bag

AgDroneTM System

The AgDroneTM system is comprised of a blended fixed-wing design with an EPS foam core and Kevlarcomposite exoskeleton for added strength. Preconfigured cameras are installed inside the payload bay. 

Two active control surfaces are utilized for flight stability – the elevons and winglets.
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

Control/Ground Station

The control station is composed of a single Windows-based tablet with a ruggedized case. The telemetry 

radio connects to the tablet via USB, which communicates with the autopilot system. Only one aircraft 

can be flown per ground station.

Ground Control Software

The Windows-based tablet (PC) attaches to a telemetry antenna and is configured with mission planning 

software and flight statistics. Real-time flight data includes airspeed, ground speed, heading, attitude, 

direction, distance, altitude, throttle, battery level, throttle, and any applicable warnings.

The flight software can be used to override the current flight and commence return to home or landing 

procedures. In addition, the system can be placed into fly-by-wire mode by the pilot using the controller.

Control Link

A telemetry radio is located aboard the AgDroneTM aircraft. Operating frequency is 915MHz. and the link 

provides real-time telemetry information and allows the operator to send commands to the system 

remotely or during flight. 

A second radio is embedded in the controller and aboard the AgDroneTM aircraft for fly-by-wire override. 

The radio operates at 2.4 GHz and is used as a secondary safety measure.

Certified TSO Components

No TSO Certified components are utilized.

§ 5: Performance Characteristics

Performance 

Cruise speed 29 mph

Stall speed 20 mph

Max. speed (no descent) 51 mph

Max. maneuvering speed 49 mph

Max. turn rate 40 deg. per sec.

Max. climb rate (45 deg.) 13 ft. per sec.

Max. flight duration 80 min. (RTL initialized at approx. 55 min.)

Max. range 31 mi. (RTL initialized at approx. 26 mi.)

Max. altitude 400 ft. above ground level (FAA regulated)

Max. takeoff weight 6.5 lbs.

Max. LiPo battery capacity (11.1 V) 8 amp-hr. 

Operating temperature range (F) 10-120 deg. (recommended: 50-100 deg.)

Max. operating wind speed 25 mph (flight) 18 mph (imagery)

Max. RC command range 2.8 mi. (recommended: within VLOS)

Max. transport case weight 80 lbs.
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

Preflight Checks

1. Prefetch map data of the flight area

2. Download previously collected mission data 

3. Ensure that batteries and powered components are fully charged

4. Clean lens covers and clear airframe of debris

5. Ensure that motor bracket is securely fastened to airframe

6. Inspect propeller for structural defects , remove debris and ensure smooth operation

7. Check elevons and servos for structural defects or obstructions

8. Ensure that winglets and lid cover are securely fastened to the airframe

9. Clear launch zone of debris and unnecessary personnel

10. Check surrounding airspace for obstacles and adverse weather conditions

11. Check that Mission Planner has 7 or more satellites available

12. Check that altitude (at ground station) is approximately 0 meters

13. Check that distance to MAV is less than 50 meters

Launch/Takeoff Procedure

1. Power-on Components – Boot the system in the order listed below

a) Power-on RC transmitter in fly-by-wire mode with throttle at 0%

b) Power-on mission planning computer (telemetry antenna attached)

c) Connect battery to the AgDroneTM aircraft (disarmed – blinking red light)

d) Listen for start-up beeps (multiple tones), wait for readiness beep (long tone)

IMPORTANT: Boot the AgDroneTM aircraft facing north for best orientation accuracy. 

2. Mission Planning

a) Open Mission Planner and create or load a mission

b) Adjust flight path for landscape and weather conditions

c) Click CONNECT and wait for Mission Planner to connect to the AgDroneTM system

d) Click Write WPs to load the mission onto the AgDroneTM system

3. Launch the AgDroneTM 

IMPORTANT: Carry the AgDroneTM aircraft so that it is facing forward for best orientation accuracy.

a) Approach the launch zone (the AgDroneTM system should remain disarmed)

b) Arm the AgDroneTM system (push and hold arming button until light is solid-red)

c) Test elevon function (move directional stick on RC transmitter)

d) Grip the AgDroneTM aircraft by the front of the wing
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

e) Select auto mode from the RC transmitter and wait for the propeller to spin up

f) Hand-launch the AgDroneTM aircraft so it travels a flat and level path into the wind

g) Observe mission, maintaining visual line-of-sight (VLOS) of the AgDroneTM aircraft

h) Adjust flight path and assist with controls as needed for obstacles and landing

The pilot in command observes flight data statistics and holds the controller should manual override be 

required. The observer watches the aircraft during flight and calls out conditions and alerts the pilot to any 

air conflicts or people moving into the flight zone. Pilot is tasked to avoid any off-nominal conditions 

identified by the observer.

4. Landing & Recovery - “j” and “k” apply to a failed-launch situation

a) Landing path is preprogrammed into the mission

b) Observer notifies Pilot that landing sequence has commenced

c) Pilot and Observer ensure that the landing zone is clear

d) The AgDroneTM aircraft descends and glides to landing waypoint automatically

e) Pilot confirms landing and selects fly-by-wire mode (throttle 0%)

f) Observer disarms the AgDroneTM system (push-hold arming button until light flashes red)

g) Observer returns the AgDroneTM aircraft to the ground station and disconnects the battery

h) Download mission data (unless reattempting mission after a failed launch)

i) Record post-flight notes and discrepancies in logbook

j) Perform preflight inspection to ensure airworthiness before the next mission

k) Click Write WPs to resend waypoints to AgDroneTM system before reattempting a mission

IMPORTANT: The RC transmitter should remain on when recovering and rebooting the AgDroneTM 

system.

5. Collect Mission Data

a) Reboot the AgDroneTM aircraft (remain disarmed – light blinking red)

b) Extract SD cards containing imagery data

c) Start HoneyComb Connect and download mission data

d) Reload SD cards and power-off the AgDroneTM system 

e) Upload mission data via HoneyComb Connect

f) Access mission data from HoneyComb online user account

§ 6: Airworthiness

Criteria must be met by the client in coordination with FAA.

* HoneyComb cannot provide further assistance on this section/subsection. 
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

§ 7: Procedures

The FAA outlines specific requirements concerning predetermined events as outlined below.

Lost Link/Mission Procedures

The “Home” location is set before operations begin using Google Maps. Home is where the aircraft 

returns to and loiters above if communications are lost. The area is set prior to flight at a safe location.

Lost Communications Procedures

In the event of lost communications the aircraft will return to its designated home position and loiter 

overhead until the operator regains control. If the operator is unable to regain control via telemetry or the 

2.4 GHz radio, the aircraft will attempt a controlled decent at the home location when the battery is 

depleted.

- Initial Lost-Link: Mission Planner will immediately alarm the operator of a lost-link status and 

will continue flying the planned path for up to 10 seconds while trying to reestablish 

communications.

- 10 Second Lost-Link: Mission Planner will continue to alarm the operator and the AgDroneTM 

aircraft will begin a circular loiter pattern at the approximate location where the lost-link occurred 

for up to 30 seconds while trying to reestablish communications.

- 30 second Lost-Link: Mission Planner will continue to alarm the operator and the AgDroneTM 

system will automatically initiate RTL mode and loiter above the home location. At this 

proximity, the AgDroneTM system should be able to reestablish communications.

- No Communications: If lost-link status continues and the aircraft cannot reestablish connection 

with the RC transmitter, the AgDroneTM aircraft will remain loitering above the home location 

until connections are restored or the battery power is depleted.

- Depleted Battery: In the event that battery power is depleted mid-flight, the first component to 

lose power is the motor. With no propulsion, the AgDroneTM aircraft will rely on the autopilot 

and control surfaces to gradually descend in the circular (spiral) pattern. 

If GPS link is lost the aircraft is able to reconcile position using dead-reckoning. However, the Pilot will 

be notified of the lost link and can choose to abort the mission.

Emergency Procedures

The Pilot is able to take fly-by-wire control of the aircraft and alter its flight path should an emergency 

arise. The Pilot is also able to demand return to home via the telemetry link.

§ 8: Avionics & Equipment

The AgDroneTM system utilizes an autopilot, GPS, tablet, and ground station software. The AgDroneTM 

system does not utilize onboard sense and avoid or include a transponder.

§ 9: Lights

The AgDroneTM system is not equipped with any lighting.
HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

§ 10: Spectrum Analysis Approval

The AgDroneTM system utilizes a Part 15 approved 915MHz telemetry and control link. A backup radio 

of 2.4 GHz is also utilized.

§ 11: ATC Communications

The AgDroneTM system does not provide radio communication with ATC. Ground operators may choose 

to equip themselves with radios to communicate with ATC if required.

§ 12: Electronic Surveillance/Detection Capability

The AgDroneTM system stores imagery onboard via an SD card. No video surveillance capabilities exist 

on the AgDroneTM system or provided equipment.

§ 13: Visual Surveillance/Detection Capability

The AgDroneTM system can be visually observed up to 5,280 ft. horizontally and up to 2,000 ft. vertically. 

Observation is ground based. 

§ 14: Aircraft Performance Recording

The AgDroneTM system utilizes onboard flight logging and ground logging. No voice recording is 

performed.