April 16, 2015

Exemption No. 11343 Regulatory Docket No. FAA

− 20 15

− 0040

Mr. Gregory S. Winton, Esq. The Aviation Law Firm 1997 Annapolis Exchange Parkway Suite 300 Annapolis, MD 21401

Dear M r . Winton :

This letter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations of the exemption, including the date it ends.

The Basis for Our Decision

By letter dated January 8, 2015 , you petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on behalf of Woolpert, Inc. ( hereinafter petitioner or operator ) for an exemption

. The exemption would all ow the petitioner to operate an unmanned ai rcraft system (UAS) to conduct aerial acquisitions and research

.
See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA des cribing the proposed operations and the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption

.
The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition in the Federal R egister because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner

.

Airworthiness Certification

The UAS proposed by the petitioner is a Skycatch

.2

In accordance with the statutory criteria provided in Section 333 of P ublic Law 112

− 95 in reference to 49 U

. S

. C

. § 44704, and in consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation, the Secretary of Transportation h as determined that this aircraft meets the conditions of Section 333. Therefore, the FAA finds that the relief from 14 CFR part 21, C ertification procedures for products and parts, Subpart H

— Airworthiness Certificates

, and any associated noise certification and testing requirements of part 36, is not necessary.

The Basis for Our Decision

You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection . The FAA has issued grants of exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. In Grants of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 11109 to Clayco, Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA

− 20 14

− 0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Lab s , Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0642), the FAA found that the enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned aircraft (UA) with the specifications described by the petitioner and carrying no passengers or crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater propo rtions, carrying crew in addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled by this exemption is in the public interest.

Having reviewed your reasons for requesting an exemption, I find that

—

• They are similar in a ll material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213 ;

• The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213 also apply to the situation you present; and

• A grant of exemption is in the public interest.

Our Decision

In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, delegated to me by th e Administrator, Woolpert, Inc. is granted an exemption from 14 CFR §§ 61.23(a) and ( c ), 61.101(e)(4 ) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a) , 91.7(a), 91.119(c), 91.121, 91.151(a)(1), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 91.417(a) and (b), to the extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform aerial data collection

. This exemption is subject to the conditions and limitations listed below.

Conditions and Limitations

In this grant of exemption, Woolpert, Inc. is hereafter referred to as the operator.3

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the Skycatch when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this exemption

.

2. Operations for t he purpose of closed

- set motion picture and television filming are

not permitted.

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (100 miles per hour). The exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine complian ce with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the aircraft manufacturer.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground l evel (AGL). Altitude must be reported in feet AGL.

5. The UA must 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.

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within the visual line of sight (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 must be able to communicate verbally at all times ;

e lectronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be designated before the fl ight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the VO can perform the duties required of the VO.

7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this grant of exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a dis crepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations herein take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. The4

operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to this grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted thi s exemption, then the operator must petition for an amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS

− 80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents.

8. Any UAS that has undergone m aintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. Functional test flights may only be conducted by a PIC with a VO and must remain at least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property.

9. The operator is responsible for maintai ning and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe operation.

10. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre

- flight inspection and determine the UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre

- flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. inoperable components, items, or equipment. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and th e UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight.

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and aircraft components.

12. Each UAS operated under this exempt ion must comply with all manufacturer safety bulletins.

13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a current FAA airman medical certifi cate or a valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a state, the District of Col u mbia , Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government. The PIC must also meet the flight revi ew requirements specified in
14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate.

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption, including ev asive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with
14 CFR § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of trai ning the operator’s PICs and VOs5

(training, proficiency, and experience

- building) and determining the PIC’s ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption are permitted under the terms of thi s exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

15. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions ( VMC). Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point (ARP) as denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not denoted with a n ARP, the center of the airport symbol as denoted on the current
FAA

- published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption holder. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

17. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is les s than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a

pre

- determined location within the private or controlled

- access property.

19. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies.

20. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minu tes or with the reserve power recommended by the manufacturer if greater.

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). All operations shall be conducted in accordance with an ATO

- issued COA. The exemption holder may apply for a new or amended COA if it intends to conduct operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the attached COA

.

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR p art 47, and have identification (N

− Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.6

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

24. The UA must remai n clear and give way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

25. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.

26. All Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating

persons, v essels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. 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 p rotection. 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 ; and b. The owner/controller of any v essels, 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.

The PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons are not considered nonparticipating persons under this exemption.

27. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- access property with permission from the property owner/controller or authorized represen tative. Permission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted.

28. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as de fined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS

− 80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov

.
If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed

- set motion picture and television filming and production, the following additional conditions and limitations apply.

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) as documented in this grant of exemption.7

30. At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) with jurisdiction over the area of proposed filming. The 3

- day notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights; b. Name and phone number of the o perator for the UAS aerial filming conducted under this grant of exemption;

c. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the on

- scene operation of the UAS; d. Make, model, and serial or N

− Number of UAS to be used;

e. Name and certificate number of UAS PIC s involved in the aerial filming; f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property owners and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the list of those who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request;
g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area, city, town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the altitudes essential to accomplish the operation.

31. Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating persons consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, as specified in the exemption holder’s MPTOM.

Unless otherwise specified in this grant of ex emption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.

This exemption terminates on April, 30, 2017 , unless sooner superseded or rescinded.

Sincerely,

/s/ John S. Duncan Director, Flight Standards ServiceUNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No. _______________

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

WOOLPERT , INC. FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATION SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121 , 91.151(b ), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)( 1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF THE

SKYCATCH UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM PURSUAN T TO SECTION 333 OF
THE F AA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 ( PUBLIC LAW 112

- 95)

Submitted on January 8

, 201 5

G REGORY S

. W INTON
, E SQ

. J ARED M. A LLEN
, E SQ

. T HE A VIATION L AW F IRM 1997 Annapolis Exchange Parkway Suite 300 Annapolis, Maryland 21401 Tel: (301) 294

- 8550
Fax: (866) 568

- 9886 Attorneys for Petitioner2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

................................ ................................ ................. 3

SUMMARY

................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 4

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER

................................ ................. 4

BACKGROUND

................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 5

BASIS FOR PETITION

................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 5

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER

................................ ................................ . 7

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH WOOLPERT , INC. SEEKS EXEMPTION

................................ ................................ ................................ ... 7

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF WOOLPERT , INC. SEEKS AND THE REASON WOOLPERT , INC. SEEKS THE RELIEF

................................ ................................ . 1 1

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING WOOLPERT

, INC. 'S REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST

................................ ................................ ..................... 1 3

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY

................................ ................................ .............. 1 7

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER

.......... 3 1

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT WOOLPERT , INC. 'S REQUEST

................................ ....................... 3 1

CONCLUSION

................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 3 23 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

C.F.R. Code of Federal Regulation s

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation

GCS Ground Control Station

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot I n Command

Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VO Visual Observer

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 SUMMARY

Woolpert , Inc

. seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b),

91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b ), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b)

,
to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and

Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)

. This exem ption will permit Woolpert , Inc. to operate an

Unmanned Aircraft System (UA S ) for t he commercial purpose of conducting aerial acquisitions

and research over certain rural areas of the United States

.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Woolpert, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as “Woolpert”) is a 103 year

- old design, geospatial

and infrastructure management firm with a long and well

- recognized history in mapping and

surveying. Woolpert excels in the collection of aerial imagery from manned, fixed

- wing aircraft

for the purpose of making highly accurate aerial maps for a range of clients and various

applications. In addition to operating a fleet of conventional fixed

- wing aircraft, Woolpert has

recently acquired a Skycatch unmanned aircraft system (hereinafter “Skycatch UAS”). As set

forth in this Petition, Woolpert seeks to commercially operate its Skycatch UAS over certain

rural areas of the United States for the purpose of conducting aerial acquisitions and research

,
continuing an established legacy that has always sought the highest standar ds of operations and

safety.

Woolpert has previously received two G rants of E xemption (Exemption Nos. 11111 and

11114) from the FAA concerning operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in the National

Airspace System ( NAS )

.5 BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Sy stem: Skycatch UAS

Woolpert seeks an exemption to operate the Woolpert Skycatch UAS for compensation

or hire within the NAS

. The Skycatch UAS is comprised of a vertical takeoff and landing

(VTOL) U nmanned A ircraft (UA) and a transportable G round C ontrol S tation (GCS) . The

Skycatch UA has a maximum gross weight of approximately 6.6 pounds, while having a

diameter of 30 inches

, height of 20 inches

, and maximum speed of 50 mph (43.4 knots) . The

Skycatch UA is equipped with four propellers, each being driven by a Lithium Polymer b attery

powered electric motor.

The Skycatch UA that will be operated by Woolpert will be registered in accordance with

49 U.S.C. 44103

, Registration of Aircraft

, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration

, and

marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45

, Identification and Registration Marking

.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, Woolpert , Inc., by and through undersigned counsel, pursuant to the

provisions of t he Federal Aviation Regulations ( 14 C.F.R. § 11.6 1) and the FAA Modernization

and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems

,
hereby petitions the Administrator to operate the Skycatch UAS in the N ational A irspace S ystem

(NAS)

, and for an exemption from the requi rements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a),

91.121, 91.151( b ), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

I n consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the

unmanned aircraft and its operation, Woolpert ’s operation of the Skycatch UAS meets the

conditions of Section 333 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in

accordance with 14 C.F.R. P art 21, Subpart H.6

Accordingly

, Woolpert requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1),

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for

maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate.

Woolpert submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety

will be ensured. Woolpert will use its authorized technician s to perform maintenance,

alteration s , or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and pra ctices

prescribed in the manufacturer’s maintenance manual . Furthermore, Woolpert will document

and maintain all maintenance records for the Skycatch UAS.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b)

, entitled Private pilot

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command

, is requested by Woolpert to the extent necessary to

allow a Pilot in Command ( PIC ) holding a private pilot certificate and a third

- class airman

medical certificate, and who has completed the Skycatch UAS training and currency

requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations . Woolpert submits that the

conditions and limit atio ns set forth herein will ensure the safety of the NAS , as well as the safety

of persons or property on the ground.

Woolpert seeks relief from Section 91.7(a) , entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness

, because

the Skycatch UAS does not require an airworthine ss certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. P art

21, Subpart H. As such, Woolpert submits that it will ensure that the Skycatch UAS is in an

airworthy condition

, prior to every flight

, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the

Skycatch Flight Manual , and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight

.
Woolpert also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled

Altimeter Settings , as the Skycatch UA will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard

.

However

, altitude information of the Skycatch UA will be provided to the PIC via Global7

Positioning S ystem ( GPS ) equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which

downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path

. This altitude

information, c ombined with Woolpert’s operation of the Skycatch UA within visual line of sight

,

at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121.

Additiona lly, Woolpert seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151( b ),

entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. Woolpert submits that safety will not be

affected by terminating flights of the battery powered Skycatch UA after 30 minutes of

continuous flight, which would allow for five minutes of battery power remaining.

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Woolpert provides the following information in

support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name A nd Address Of T he Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner is:

Woolpert , Inc. 4454 Idea Center Blvd. Dayton, Ohio 45430

The point of contact for this P etition and specific contact information is as follows:

Gregory S. Winton, Esq. The Aviation Law Firm 1997 Annapolis Exchange Parkway

, Suite 300 Annapolis, Maryland 21401 Tel: (301) 294

- 8550 | Fax: (866) 568

- 9886
Ema il: Greg@aviationlawexperts.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Woolpert Seeks Exemption.

1. Woolpert Seeks Exemption Fr om The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Section 61.113 , entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command

,

subsections (a) and (b) prescribe th e following, in relevant part:8

( a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft.

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, a ct as PIC 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.

2. Woolpert Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).

Section 91. 7 , entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , subsection (a), states the following :

(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.

3

. Woolpert Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121.

Section 91.121 , entitled Altimeter settings , subsection (a), states the following, in part:

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that airc raft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating

--

(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to

--

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure;

4

. Woolpert Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151 ( b )

.

Section 91.151

, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

, subsection ( b ),

state s the following:

(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 le ast 20 minutes.9

5

. Woolpert Seeks Exemption F rom T he R equirement O f Section 91.405(a)

.

Section 91. 405

, entitled Maintenance required

, subsection ( a )

, states the follow ing :

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 [.]

6

. Woolpert Seeks Exemption F rom The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1)

.

Section 91. 407

, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive mainte nance,

rebuilding, or alteration , subsection (a)(1)

, state s the following:

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintena nce, 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 [.]

7

. Woolpert Seeks Exemption F rom The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) A nd 91.409( a)(2 ).

Section 91.409

, entitled Inspections , subsection (a)

, state s the following:

(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 in spection 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 chap ter.

8

. Woolpert Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section s 91.417(a) A nd 91.417 (b)

.

Section 91.417

, entitled Maintenance records , subsections (a) and (b), state the

following:

(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:10

(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 Ad ministrator) 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.

(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

ar e 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 act ion, 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 retain ed until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.11

C

. The Extent Of Relief Woolpert Seeks And The R eason Woolpert Seeks The Relief

.

1. Extent of Relief Woolpert Seeks And The Reason Woolpert Seeks Relief From Secti on 61.113(a) And (b)

.

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations:

Pilot in command

, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot

certificate and a third

- c lass airman medical certificate, and who has completed the Skycatch

UAS training and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for

compensation

.

This relief is re quested since the limitations set for th in Section 6 1.113(a) and (b) state

that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC 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.

As set forth more fully below, Woolpert submits that an equivalent level of safety will be

maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the Skycatch UAS unless that PIC has

demonstrated

, through the Skycatch UAS training and currency requirements

, that the PIC is

able to safely operate the Skycatch UAS in a manner consistent with the operations

specifications as described in this exemption

, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as

well as maintaining app ropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, Woolpert submits that all flights o f the Skycatch UAS

, conducted by the PIC

pursuant to the grant of this Petition

- (1) will be incidental to Woolpert ’s business; and (2) will

not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.12

2. Extent of Relief Woolpert Seeks And The Reason Woolpert Seeks Relief From Section 91. 7(a)

.

R elief from Section 91. 7( a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness

, is requested to the extent

required to allow Woolpert to determine that the Skycatch UAS is in an airworthy condition

prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the Skycatch Flight Manual

,

and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe flight

.
Woolpert seeks the requested relief because the S kycatch UAS does not require an

air worthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C

. F

. R

. P art 21, Subpart H

. Therefore, Woolpert

will ensure that the Skycatch UAS is in an airworthy condition based up on its compliance with

the operating documents (i.e., the Skycatch Flight Manual) prior to every flight, and as stated in

the conditions and limitations below.

3

. Extent of Relief Woolpert Seeks And The Reason Woolper t Seeks Relief From Section 91. 121

.

Relief from Section 91.121 entitled Altimeter settings

, may be required to allow flight

operation s of the Skycatch UAS , which utilizes GPS equipment and a radio com munications

telemetry data link to downlink altitude information to the PIC from the UA to the GCS

. As

more fully set forth below, safety will be maintained as a result of the Skycatch UA ’s altitude

readout via GPS equipment

, and Woolpert’s operation of the Skycatch UA within visual line of

sigh t

, at or below 400 feet AGL.

4

. Extent O f Relief Woolpert Seeks And The Reason Woolpert Seeks Relief From Section 91.151( b )

.

R elief from Section 91.151( b ) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

, is

requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered Skycatch UA during

daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC)

, under visual flight rules ( VFR )

conditions

, to continue for a total duration of 3 0 minutes

, which will ensure that the UA will land13

with five minutes of battery power remaining

. Woolpert seeks the requested relief because

without an exemption from Section 91.151( b ), the flight time duratio n of the battery power ed

Skycatch UA will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial acquisition and research flight

operations that Woolpert propose s to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the Skycatch UAS, the

Skycatch Flight Manual , and Woolpert ’s proposed operating limitations

, ensure that Woolpert

will safely operate the battery powered Skycatch UA during daylight hours in VFR conditions

,

for a total fligh t duration of 3 0 minutes, landing with five minutes of battery power remaining.

5

. Extent O f Relief Woolpert Seeks And The Reaso n Woolpert Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), A nd 91.417(a) & (b).

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only

apply to aircraft wit h an airworthiness certificate, Woolpert requests relief from these Sections

because the Skycatch UAS does not require an airworthiness certificate. A s set forth more fully

below, the Skycatch UAS meets the conditions of Section 333 of the FMRA for operation

without an airworthiness certificate

. Accordingly, Woolpert will use authorized technicians to

perform maintenance, alteration s , or preventive main tenance on the UAS using the methods,

techniques, and practices prescribed in the manufacturer’s maintenance manual

. Furthermore,

Woolpert w ill document and maintain all maintenance records for the Skycatch UAS.

D

. The Reasons Why Granting Woolpert ’s Re quest Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole

.

Gr anting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Woolpert to

safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial acquisition s and research over rural areas of

the United States, commercially, in support of government entities, agriculture, scientific studies,

wildlife monitoring, forestry operations

, and the oil and gas industries. Additionally, use of the14

Skycatch UAS will dec rease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant

benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of Woolpert’s proposed operation of the Skycatch

UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

1. The Public Will Benefit From The Aerial Acquisition And Research Performed.

Woolpert submits this Petition to commercially operate the Skycatch UAS and perform

aerial acquisition and research throughout rural areas of the United States , in support of

government entities, agriculture, scientific studies, wildlife monitoring, forestry operations

,
mining, and the oil and gas industries. The Skycatch UAS will provide safe, efficient, and

economical aerial acquisition and research operations to further each of these f ields, all of which

are critical to the well

- being of the general public.

The specific operations that Woolpert will perform with the Skycatch UAS demonstrate

how the requested exemption will directly benefit the above

- referenced industries and the public

.
In agriculture, the aerial acquisition performed by the Skycatch UAS will be used to predict and

increase crop yields, as well as for the research and prevent ion of crop disease

. In the oil and gas

industry, the Skycatch UAS will be used to aid in facil ity inspections, survey and plan new

worksites, conduct volumetric analysis, and perform right of way analysis. The Skycatch UAS

will also further environmental management by researching invasive species, mapping

deforestation, and surveying point source pollution.

2. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.

The Skycatch UA is battery powered and serves as a safe, efficient, and economical

alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the

amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use15

of a Skycatch UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air

pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground.

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS,

congestion a round airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The

Skycatch UA does not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned

aircraft conducting aerial survey missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by

air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight

operations.

3

. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The Skycatch UAS.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the Skyca tch UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will

greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated

during traditional aerial survey flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the

Skycatch UAS p roduces no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious

alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion twin engine aircraft that are

typically utilized for aerial acquisitions, while burning approximately 20

- 30 gallons per hour of

leaded aviation fuel. The Skycatch UA, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions

,
also eliminates noise pollution, as the UA is propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather

than an internal combustion engine.

By using the Skycatch UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and

property in the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with traditional manned aircraft

flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely el iminated. Aside from the lack of

flightcrew members located onboard the aircraft, the Skycatch UA (weighing approximately 6.6

pounds at its maximum gross weight with a diameter of 30 inches , and with no fuel on board), has16

less physical potential for coll ateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air,

compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct aerial acquisitions (weighing approximately

6,500 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 40 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capa city of

180 gallons).

4

. Performing Aerial Acquisition Operations With The Skycatch UAS Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the Skycatch UAS is also an economical

alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct aerial acquisitions . As such, operation of the

Skycatch UAS will allow United States based companies , like Woolpert

, to remain co mpetitive

and contribute to growth of the U .S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel

and the Environmental Protection Agency (“ EPA ”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded

aviation fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative technology in

order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered Skycatch UA S is one suc h

technology that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility compared to manned

aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational cost of a traditional manned

aircraft.

By operating the Skycatch UAS , companies such as Wo olpert can remain competitive

and profitable, and therefore

, provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which

will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of

U.S. companies

, through commercial u se of the Skycatch UAS

, provides a stable workforce that

increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows

companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the

United States and a broad.17

5

. There Are No Privacy Issues

.

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for

d ecades

, Woolpert’s proposed operation of the Skycatch UAS will not implicate any privacy

issues. Specifically, the Skycatch UAS will be operated only in rural areas, and in accordance

with all Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R.

§ 91.119. Most significantly

, the Skycatch UA will not be operated closer than 500 feet t o any

person, vessel, vehicle, or structure

, which is not directly involved in the operation

.

E

. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which Woolpert Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The Skycatch UAS Meets The Conditions Of The FAA Modernizatio n and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333.

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the

unmanned aircraft and its operation, Woolpert ’s operation of the Skycatch UAS meets the

conditions of FMRA Section 333

, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance

with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Section 3 33 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification

and sets for th requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the

NAS or the public

, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section

333 states the following, in part:

(a) In General.

-- Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation 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.

(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

-- In making the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum

--18 (1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and po pulated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airwor thiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1).

(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.

-- If the Secretary determines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely i n the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe ope ration of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.

I n seeking this exemption, Woolpert submits that the Skycatch UAS can operate safely in

the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by : ( a ) the characteristics of the

Skycatch UAS ; ( b ) the pilot certification requirement; and ( c ) the specific operating limitations

.

a
. The Specifications Of The Skycatch UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The Skycatch UAS does not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or

otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and ope rational

capability.

i

. Technical Specifications Of The Skycatch UAS.

The technical specifications of the Skycatch UAS are set forth in Appendix C of the

“ Flight Manual For The Skycatch Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS)

, ” attached hereto as Exhibit

A. Exhibit A contains proprietary information and is to be held in a separate file p ursuant to 14

C.F.R. § 11.35(b) 1

.

1 Exhibits to this Petition contain proprietary information, and in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b), are not to be included in the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS).19 ii

. The Skycatch UAS Autonomous Flight A nd Navigation Modes Enable T he UAS To Remain Within A De fined O perational A rea.

A c omplete description of the au tonomous modes and methods of navigation of the

Skycatch UAS is provided at p age s 2 , 4, 5, and 10 of the “Flight Manual For The Skycatch

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS),” attached hereto as Exhibit A. Exhibit A contains

proprietary information and is to be held in a separate file pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).

iii

. The Skycatch UAS Is D esigned For Automatic Return To Launch In The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation.

A complete description of the Skycatch UAS’s automatic return to launch function in the

event of a break in communication or loss of telemetry data is set forth on page s 2

, 9 , and 10 of

the “Flight Manual For The Skycatch Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS),” a ttached hereto as

Exhibit A. Exhibit A contains proprietary information and is to be held in a separate file

pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).

b

. Flight Operations Of The Skycatch UAS Are Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot i n Command With A Safety Observer.

Woolpert will only utilize certificated p ilot s who possess a valid a irman m edical

c ertificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the Skycatch UAS. Additionally, a safety

observer will assist all pilots

. T he PIC must complete the Skycatch UAS training and

qualification

, as set forth in the “Flight Manual For The Skycatch Unmanned Aircraft System

(UAS),” attached hereto as Exhibit A. Exhibit A contains proprietary information and is to be

held in a separate file pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).20 c
. Flight s Of The Skycatch UAS Will B e Conducted Pursuant To S pec ific Operating L imitations.

In seeking this exemption, Woolpert proposes to commercially opera te the Skycatch UAS

for the special purpose of conducting aerial acquisitions over rural areas of United States

,

pursuant to the following specific operating limitations:

1) Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the following aircraft described in the operator’s manual which is a quad rotor aircraft weighing less than 10 pounds: Skycatch Unmanned Aircraft System. Proposed operations of any other ai rcraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant.

2) The UA may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 43.4 knots.

3) The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operator’s manual. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

4) The UA must 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 a ny device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA

- issued airman medical certificate.

5) All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement

, as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS c apability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight.

6) The operator’s manual and this grant of exemption must be maintained and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operator’s manual, the conditions and limitations herein take precedenc e and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operator’s manual. The operator may update or revise its operator’s manual. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and r evised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA gr anted this exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to their exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operator’s manual.

7) Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed21

and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records.

8) Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alt erations that affect the UAS opera tion or flight characteristics ( e.g. replacement of a flight critical component ) , must undergo a functional test flight in accordance with the operator’s manual. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the UAS aircraft records of the flight. The requirements and procedures for a functional test flight and aircraft record entry must be added to the operator’s manual.

9) The preflight inspection must account for all discrepancies, i.e. inoperabl e components, items, or equipment, not covered in the relevant preflight inspection sections of the operator’s manual.

10) The operator must follow the manufacturer’s UAS aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements, with particular attention to flight critical components that may not be addressed in the manufacturer’s manuals.

11) Woolpert must carry out their maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements in accordance with the operator’s manual. Maintenance, inspection, and alterations must be noted in the aircraft logbook, including total flight hours, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized UAS technician or PIC returning the UAS to service.

12) Woolpert U AS technicians must receive and document training referenced in the operator’s manual.

13) Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer System and Safety Bulletins.

14) Woolpert maintenance personnel must make a record entry in the UAS logbook or equivalent document of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

15) The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and a third

- class airman medical certificate. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 C

. F

. R

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

16) The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless that PIC has demonstrated

, through the training and currency requirements set forth in the operator’s manual, that the PIC is able to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption, including evasive and emerge ncy maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.22

17) UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C

. F

. R

. § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological condition s (VMC). Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

18) The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of the airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA

- published aeronautical chart. The UA may not operate within 3 nautical miles from any city or densely populated area.

19) The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

20) If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a

pre

- determined location within the private or controlled

- access property and land

, or be recovered in accordance with the operator’s manual.

21) The PIC must abort the flight in the ev ent of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operator’s manual.

22) The PIC is prohibited from beginning a UAS flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions and assuming normal cruising speed) there is enough power to fly to the first point of intended landing prior to utilizing battery reserve power.

23) The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under this gran t of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request issuance of a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation.

24) All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption mu st be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C

. F

. R

. P art 47, and have identification (N

Number) markings in accordance with 14 C

. F

. R

. P art 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.

25) Before conducting operations, t he radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

26) The documents required under 14 C

. F

. R

. 91.9 and 91.203 mu st be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

27) The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

28) The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.23

29) The UA may not be operated over congested or densely populated areas. These areas include but are not limited to the yellow areas depicted on World Aeronautical Charts (WAC), Sectional Aeronautical Charts (Sectionals), or Terminal Area Charts (TAC). However, aeronautical charts may not reflect pertin ent local information. Ultimately, it is the PIC’s responsibility to maintain the minimum safe altitudes required by § 91.119.

30) Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC or VO) , vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protect ion. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; b. the aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the land owner/cont roller has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and;

c. operations near the PIC or VO do not present an undue hazard to the PIC or VO, per § 91.119(a).

31) All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- access property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained prior to the beginning of every flight.

32) Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be r eported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

Woolpert submi ts that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and

(b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the Skycatch UAS unless that

PIC has demonstrated

, through the Skycatch UAS training and currency requirements

, that the

PIC is able to safely operate the Skycatch UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption,

including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people,

vessels, vehicles and structures.24

Considering Woolpert’s prop osed a rea of operations

, and the operating limitations set

forth

- above ; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of

commercial pilot requirements ( See Exemption No. 11062 ) ; and the airmanship skills necessary

to saf ely operate the Skycatch UAS, Woolpert submits that the additional manned airmanship

experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills

necessary for Woolpert’s specific proposed flight operations.

The Skycatch UAS was the subject of a previous Gra nt of Exemption from Section

61.113(a) and (b) . In Exemption No. 11109, the FAA grant ed relief from Section 61.113(a) and

(b) concerning the operation of the Skycatch UAS by a PIC holding a private pilot certificate and

third class airman medical certificate, based upon the following analysis :

The FAA has analyzed Clayco’s proposed operation and has dete rmined that it does not differ significantly from the situation described in Grant of Exemption No. 11062 (Astraeus Aerial). Clayco plans to operate over private property with controlled access in the NAS. Given: 1) the similar nature of Clayco’s proposed operating environment to that of Astraeus’, 2) the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial requirements [ref: Exemption No. 11062], and 3) the airmanship skills necessary to operate the UAS, the FAA finds that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Clayco’s specific proposed operations. Therefore, the FAA finds that a PIC holding a private pilot certificate and a third

- class airman medical certificate is appropriate for the proposed operations.

With regard to the airmanship skills necessary to operate the UAS (item #3 stated above), Clayco has proposed a 100 hour training program and 6 month currency requir ements. The conditions and limitations below stipulate that Clayco may not permit any PIC to operate unless that PIC has demonstrated through Clayco’s training and currency requirements that the PIC is able to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and

structures.

See Exemption No. 11109 at 12.

Additionally, t he FAA has previously gra nted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b)

specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g.25

Exemption Nos. 11062

, 11063

, 11064

, 11065

, 11066

, 11067

, 11080

, 11109

, 11110

, 11112

,

11136, 11138 ).

As in Exemption No. 11109, Woolpert will not allow any PIC to operate the Skycatch

UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated through the Skycatch UAS training and currency

requirements

, that the PIC is able to safely operate the Skycatch UAS in a manner consist ent

with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

A complete description of the Skycatch UAS Training and Qualification requirements is

set forth at pa ge 5 of t he “Flight Manual For The Skycatch Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS),”

attached hereto as Exhibit A. Exhibit A contains proprietary information and is to be held in a

separate file pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).

3. Reasons Why An Exemption Fr om The Requirements Of Section 91. 7(a) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91. 7(a) will be maintained because

prior to every flight, Woolpert will ensure that the Skycatch UAS is in an airworthy conditio n

based up on the Skycatch UAS’s compliance with its operating documents (i.e., the Skycatch

Flight Manual), and as stated in the conditions and limitations herein

.
The Skycatch UAS was the subject of a previous Gran t of Exemption from Section

91.7(a) (Exemption No. 11109). Additionally, t he FAA has previously granted relief from

Section 91. 7(a) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those

presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063 , 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080,

11109, 11110, 11112 , 11136, 11138 ).26

4

. Reasons Why An Exemption Fr om The Requirements Of Section 91. 121 Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because

the altitude information of the Skycatch UA will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and

a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active

monitoring of the flight path . This altitude information, combined with Woolpert’s operation of

the Skycatch UA within visual line of sight

, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of

safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS

equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prio r to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point will

be established and confirmed for accuracy by the UAS PIC. The Skycatch UAS was the subject

of a previous Grant of Exemption from Section 91.121 (Exemption No. 11109). Additionally,

t he FAA has previ ously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances

similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062

, 11063

,

11064

, 11065

, 11066

, 11067

, 11080

, 11109

, 11112

, 11136, 11138 ).

5

. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151( b ) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equiv a l e nt level of safety established by 14

C.F.R. Section 91.151( b ) as a result of (1) the te chnical specifications of the Skycatch UAS ; (2)

the limitations on the proposed flight operations ; and (3) the location of the proposed flight

operations . Accordingly, Woolpert will ensure that it can safely operate the battery powered

Skycatch UA during daylight hours

, in VFR conditions

, for a total flight duration of no more

than 3 0 minutes, resulting in a landing with five minutes of battery power remaining

.27

In a previous Petition for Exemption

, in which an operator was utilizing a Skycatch UAS

identical in all material respects to the Skycatch UAS Woolpert proposes to use, the FAA

granted an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151, stating as follows:

In the event that the U AS should run out of power, it would simply land within the access controlled operating area. Given its weight and construction material, the risks are less than contemplated by the current regulation. Prior relief has been granted for manned aircraft to o perate at less than the minimums prescribed in § 91.151 (a), including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. In addition, similar UAS

- specific relief has been granted an Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, and 10673 for daytime, Visual Flight Rules (VFR) condition s. The Skycatch provides a battery failsafe that commands the UA’s return to the launch point when criti cal minimum voltage is reached. The UAS batteries provide approximately 35 minutes of powered flight. The FAA agrees with Clayco’s proposal to limit UA S flights to not more than 30 minutes, or enough battery reserve to ensure that the UAS lands at the ground station with at least 20% battery reserve power, whichever happens first. Given the limitations on its proposed operations and the location of thos e proposed operations, a reduced minimum power reserve for flight in daylight VFR conditions is reasonable.

See Exemption No. 11109 at 15.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the Skycatch UAS ; the

limitations on the proposed flight operations ; and the location of the proposed operations, will

ensure that Woolpert may safely operate the battery powered Skycatch UA during daylight hours

in VFR conditions for a total duration of not more than 3 0 minu tes, and landing with five

minutes of battery power remaining

.
Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151

establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating

limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at

less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151 , including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and

10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 specific to UAS

,
in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos.28

8811, 10808, 10673 , 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080

, 11109

, 11110

,

11136, 11138 ).

6

. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, Woolpert submits that the equivalent level of safety with

regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409( a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because

Woolpert will use its trained technicians to perform maintenance, alteration s , or preventive

maintenance on the unmanned aircraft system using the methods, techniques, and practices

prescribed in the manufacturer’s maintenance m anual. Furthermore, Woolpert will document

and maintain all maintenance records for the Skycatch UAS.

Since the Skycatch UAS will be inspected as prescribed by t he manufacturer’s

m aintenance m anual, Woolpert will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by

Section s 91.405(a)

, 91.409(a)(1)

, and 91.409(a)(2)

. The Flight Manual For The Skycatch UAS

sets forth airworthiness requirements for the UA , including preflight and post flight inspections

,

as well as scheduled maintenance in four categories: daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly.

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Woolpert will

perform maintenance, alteration s or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods,

techniques, and practices prescribed by t he manufacturer’s m aintenance m anual

. The Flight

Manua l For The Skycatch UAS details procedures for each component of the UA , including the

c omponents of the p ropulsion system, a vionics system, and payload system

.
A complete description of the Skycatch UAS airworthiness and maintenance

requirements is set forth at page 6 of t he “Flight Manual For The Skycatch Unmanned Aircraft29

System (UAS),” attached hereto as Exhibit A. Exhibit A contains proprietary information and is

to be held in a separate file pu rsuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level o f safety

established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b)

, because a ll maintenance o f the

Skycatch UAS will be performed by Woolpert trained technicians, who will document and

maintain maintenance records for the Skycatch UAS.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning the Skycatch UAS

and Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) esta blish that

safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the

UAS are considered. In Exemption No. 11109, the FAA stated the following concerning the

Skycatch UAS and the Skycatch Flight Manual :

Regardin g the petitioner’s requested relief from 14 C

. F

. R 91.405 (a) Maintenance required , 91.407(a)(1) O

peration after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration , 91.409(a)(2) Inspections , and 91.417(a) and (b) Maintenance records , the FAA has determined that relief from § 91.409(a)(1) is also necessary because it is an alternate inspection requirement of § 91.409(a)(2). The FAA has carefully evaluated the petitioner’s request and determined that cause for granting the exemption is warranted.
T he FAA notes that the petitioner’s Skycatch UAS Flight Manual contain daily, preflight, monthly and yearly checks for the UAS. The FAA finds that adherence to the Skycatch Flight Manual, as required by the conditions and limitations below, is sufficient to ensure that safety is not adversely affected. In accordance with the petitioner’s UAS maintenance, inspection, and recordkeeping requirements, the FAA finds that exemption from 14 C

. F

. R

. 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 91.417(a) and (b) is warranted subject to the conditions and limitations below.

In consideration of Woolpert’s proposed operating limitations, the most recent Skycatch

Flight Manual, and the technical aspects of the Skycatch UAS, Woolpert submits that safety will

not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C

. F

. R . Sections 91.405 (a), 91.407(a)(1)

and (a)(2) , 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b)

. T he FAA has previously granted relief specific

to UAS in circumstances similar, in all m aterial respects, to those presented herein (e.g.30

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080

, 11109, 11110, 11112

,

11136, 11138 ).

7

. T he FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.

In accordance with Sec tion 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

(FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions

, Woolpert requests that the FAA

prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the Skycatch UAS , which contain such

safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to

that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H

, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a),

91. 121, 91.151( b ), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), an d 91.417(a) & (b) . Such

special conditions will permit safe operation of the UA for the limited purpose of conducting

aerial acquisitions over certain rural areas of the United States

. FMRA Sec tion 333 sets forth the

requirem ents for considering whether a UAS will cre ate a hazard to users of the NAS or the

public

, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such

UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that

must be established fo r the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS

.

Likewise , the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R.

§ 21.16

, for operation of the Skycatch UAS

, since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part

21 do not contain adequate o r appropriate safety standards

, due to the novel or unusual design

features of the aircraft . Section 21.16, entitled Special Conditions , states the following:

If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the prod uct. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in t he regulations.

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16

.31

Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Sec tion 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 , the FAA may

prescribe special conditions for Woolpert ’s intended operation of the Skycatch UAS , which

contain such safety standards that the Admi nistrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety

equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H

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

& (b), 91.7(a), 9 1 .121, 91.151( b )

, 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a)

& (b)

.

F. A S ummary That C an Be P ublish ed In T he Federal Register, stating: The Rules From Which Woolpert Seeks Exemption:

Woolpert , Inc. seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151( b )

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

.
A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption Woolpert Seeks:

This exemption will permit Woolpert , Inc. to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial acquisitions and research

over certain rural areas of the United States

.

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support Woolpert ’s Request.

This Petition is made p ursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

(FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS

may operate safely in the NAS

. As such

, Woolpert ’s request for exemption may be granted

pursuant to the authority of FMRA Sec tion 333 and 14 C.F.R. P art 11, as set forth above.

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the require ments for considering whether a UAS will create

a hazard to users of the NAS or the public

, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and

further, provides the authority for such U AS to operate without airworthiness certification.32

As discussed in detail above

, Woolpert will operate the Skycatch UAS safely in the NAS

,
without creating a hazard to users of the NAS

, or the public

, or otherwise pose a threat to

national security

.

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein

, Woolpert seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and

Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)

, which will permit safe

operation of the Skycatch UAS commercially

, without an airworthiness certificate

, for the

limited purpose of conducting aerial acquisitions over certain ru r al areas of the United States

.

By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfill ing the Congressional mandate of

the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the

public

, by allowing Woolpert to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the Skycatch UAS

commercially with in the NAS

.

WHEREFORE , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Woolpert respectfully requests that the

Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections

61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151( b )

, 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1 ) & (a)(2), and

91.417(a) & (b)

, and permit Woolpert to operate the Skycatch UAS commercially for the

purpose of conducting aerial acquisitions and research over certain rural areas of the United

States

.33

Date d: January 8 , 201 5 Respectfully submitted,

The Aviation Law Firm

/s/ Gregory S. Winton

____________________________ Gregory S. Winton, Esq. Jared M. Allen, Esq. 1997 Annapolis Exchange Parkway Suite 300 Annapolis, Maryland 21401 Tel: (301) 294

- 8550 Fax: (866) 568

- 9886 Attorneys for Petitioner

cc: James H. Williams , AFS

- 80 Robert Pappas Dean Griffith, Esq.