U.S. Department of Transportation

Docket Management System

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, D.C. 20590

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC

Joseph Schindler

20406 Little Bear Creek Rd #72

Woodinville, WA 98072

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC , pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 

11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned 

Aircraft Systems, hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Inspire 1, in the National Airspace 

System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of :

14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b)

14 CFR 45.23(b)

 91.7(a), 

91.121,

 91.151(b), 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91

Name And Address Of The Petitioner

The name and address of the Petitioner and Point of Contact is:

SKYLAB AERIAL IMAGING

ATTN: JOSEPH SCHINDLER

20406 LITTLE BEAR CREEK RD #72

WOODINVILLE, WA 98072

CELL: 425-780-0653

Email: j.schindler@skylab-imaging.com

PREFACE:

The Federal Aviation Act expressly grants the FAA the authority to issue exemptions. This statutory authority by its

terms includes exempting civil aircraft, as the term is defined under §40101 of the Act, that includes UAS, from the 

requirement that all civil aircraft must have a current airworthiness certificate.

The Administrator may grant an exemption from a requirement of a regulation prescribed under subsection (a) or

(b) of this section or any sections 44702 - 44716 of this title if the Administrator finds the exemption in the public 

interest. 49 U.S.C. §44701(f) See also 49 USC §44711(a); 49 USC §44704; 14 CFR §91.203 (a) (1). Skylab Aerial Imaging, 
LLC proposes to use one UAS; 1) DJI INSPIRE 1, for commercial photography, cinematography, inspections or surveying. 

This aircraft has four rotors and four motors in a quadcopter configuration (X4). It is only capable of vertical take off and 

landing. This UAS weighs less than 55 lbs. including payload. Can fly, under normal conditions at a speed of no more 

than 42.8 knots and has the capability to hover, and move in the vertical and horizontal plane simultaneously. This UAS is 

equipped with GPS and auto-return function to the predetermined safe landing area as well as allowing reading of

magnetic interference that can cause loss of GPS signal. The UAS will operate only in visual line of sight and will operate 

only within a sterile closed-set area of a residential or commercial listing, open desolate areas near rural farms or a 

closed-set special event. Such operations will insure that the UAS will “not create a hazard to users of the national 

airspace system or the public.” (Reform Act Section 333 (b)).

This exemption application is expressly submitted to fulfill Congress’ goal in passing Section 333(a) through (c) of 

the Reform Act. This law directs the Secretary of Transportation to consider whether certain unmanned aircraft systems 

may operate safely in the national airspace system (NAS) before completion of the rule making required under Section 

333 of the Reform Act. In making this determination, the Secretary is required to determine which types of UASs do not 

create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public or pose a threat to national security in light of the following:

• The UAS’s size, weight, speed and operational capability;

• Operation of the UAS in close proximity to airports and populated areas; and

• Operation of the UAS within visual line of sight of the operator.

Reform Act § 333 (a). Secretary determines that such vehicles “may operate safely in the national airspace 

system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft in the national airspace system.” 

Id. §333(c).

 The Federal Aviation Act expressly grants the FAA the authority to issue exemptions. This statutory authority by its 

terms includes exempting civil aircraft, as the term is defined under §40101 of the Act, that includes UAS, from the 

requirement that all civil aircraft must have a current airworthiness certificate.

The Administrator may grant an exemption from a requirement of a regulation prescribed under subsection (a) or

(b) of this section or any sections 44702 - 44716 of this title if the Administrator finds the exemption in the public 

interest. 49 U.S.C. §44701(f) See also 49 USC §44711(a); 49 USC §44704; 14 CFR §91.203 (a) (1).

RELIEF OVERVIEW

 Given the small size of the UAS involved and the restricted sterile environment within which they will operate, the 

applicant falls squarely within that zone of safety (an equivalent level of safety) in which Congress envisioned that the 

FAA must, by exemption, allow commercial operations of UASs to commence immediately. Also due to the size of the 

UASs and the restricted areas in which the relevant UAS will operate, approval of the application presents no national 

security issue. 

Given the clear direction in Section 333 of the Reform Act, the authority contained in the Federal Aviation Act, as 

amended; the strong equivalent level of safety surrounding the proposed operations, and the significant public benefit, 

including enhanced safety, reduction in environmental impacts, including reduced emissions associated with allowing 

UASs for aerial inspections, surveying and photography and cinematography, the grant of the requested exemptions is in 

the public interest. Accordingly, the applicant respectfully requests that the FAA grant the requested exemption without 

delay.
 AIRCRAFT AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC proposes that the exemption requested herein apply to civil aircraft that have the 

characteristics and that operate with the limitations listed herein. These limitations provide for at least an equivalent or 

even higher level of safety to operations under the current regulatory structure because the proposed operations 

represent a safety enhancement to the already safe aerial inspections, surveying and photography and cinematography 

operations conducted with conventional aircraft.

These limitations and conditions to which Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC agrees to be bound when conducting 

commercial operations under an FAA issued exemption include:

1. The UAS will weigh less than 55 lbs.

2. Flights will be operated within visual line of sight of a pilot and/or observer.

3. Maximum total flight time for each operational flight will be 13 minutes or less.

Flights will be terminated at 25% battery power reserve should that occur prior to the 13 minute limit.

4. Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL or, not more than 200 feet above an elevated 

platform for which filming is planned.

5. Minimum crew for each operation will consist of the UAS Pilot, the Visual Observer, and or Camera Operator.

6. Additional camera(s) will be filming UAS in flight at applicable times.

7. The UAS will only operate within a confined sterile closed-set area with a set safety perimeter, the boundaries of which

will be determined by the UAS PIC based on the site-specific activities and speed of the UAS required for the operation, 

and coordinated with the jurisdictional FAA FSDO and local government officials as applicable.

8. A briefing will be conducted in regards to the planned UAS operations prior to each day’s production activities. It will 

be mandatory that all personnel who will be performing duties within the boundaries of the safety perimeter be present 

for this briefing.

9. The UAS Pilot and/or Aerial Coordinator will ensure this safety perimeter that only consenting personnel will be 

allowed within 100 feet of the UAS operation by not permitting anyone who had not been briefed or whom is not 

involved in production to be in the closed-set area, and 500 ft away from people not directly involved in operations.

10. Observer and PIC will at all times be able to communicate by voice and/or two way radio communication system.

11. Written and/or oral permission from the relevant property holders will be obtained.

12. If applicable, all required permissions and permits will be obtained from territorial, state, county or city jurisdictions, 

including local law enforcements, fire, or other appropriate governmental agencies.

13. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UAS will have the capability to return to a pre-determined

location within the Security Perimeter and land safely.

14. The UAS will have the capability to abort flight in case of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies.
14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates 14 C.F.R. §91.203 (a) (1)

 Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, establishes the procedural requirements for the issuance of 

airworthiness certificates as required by FAR §91.203 (a) (1). Given the size and limited operating area associated with 

the aircraft to be utilized by the Applicant, an exemption from Part 21 Subpart H meets the requirements of an 

equivalent level of safety under Part 11 and Section 333 of the Reform Act. The Federal Aviation Act (49 U.S.C.§44701 (f))

and Section 333 of the Reform Act both authorize the FAA to exempt aircraft from the requirement for an airworthiness 

certificate, upon consideration of the size, weight, speed, operational capability, and proximity to airports and populated 

areas of the particular UAS. In all cases, an analysis of these criteria demonstrates that the UAS operated without an 

airworthiness certificate, in the restricted environment and under the conditions proposed will be at least as safe, or 

safer, than a conventional aircraft (fixed wing or rotorcraft) operating with an airworthiness certificate without the 

restrictions and conditions proposed.

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

its operation, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC operation of DJI Inspire 1, UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and 

therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Accordingly, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC 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. Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level 

of safety will be ensured. Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will use experienced personnel or technicians as needed to perform 

maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and practices 

prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Inspire 1 UAS.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: 

Pilot in command, is requested by Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) 

meet or exceed the described requirements of operations set by manufacturer, and who has demonstrated, that the PIC 

is able to safely operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and 

emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the DJI 

Inspire 1 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Skylab 

Aerial Imaging, LLC submits that he will ensure that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight,

by determining that the UASs are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI 

Inspire 1 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. 

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter 

Settings, as the DJI Inspire 1 will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the 

DJI Inspire 1 will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and 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 Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC's operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS within visual line of sight, at 

or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. 

Additionally, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled 

Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC submits that safety will not be affected by 

operation of the DJI Inspire 1 during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules 

(VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 13 minutes to the first point of intended 

landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes. 

EXTENT AND REASONING WHY Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC SEEKS RELIEF FROM THE LISTED SECTIONS ABOVE: 

1. Section 61.113(a) & 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 meet all requirements as described in the DJI Inspire 1 owner’s manual 

to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. 

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(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, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC submits that an equivalent level of safety will be 

maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated that the PIC

is able to safely operate either the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as 

described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances 

from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC submits that all flights of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant 

to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC's business; and (2) will not carry 

passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

2. 91.7(a). 

Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, is requested to the extent required to allow Skylab 

Aerial Imaging, LLC to determine that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring 

that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC Operations Manual, 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual). 

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC seeks the requested relief because the DJI Inspire 1 UAS does not require an 

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will ensure

that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the 

aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

3. 91.121. 

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight operations of the DJI 

Inspire 1 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data 

link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires 

that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level

(AGL), Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC seeks the requested relief because the DJI Inspire 1 UA altimeter may be set on the 

ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight. 

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is sought to the extent 

necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an 

equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Inspire 1 UA are equipped with a barometric pressure sensor 

and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each 

flight, and provides the PIC with altitude information of the UA on the heads-up display of the GCS. 

4. 91.151(b). 

Relief 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 DJI Inspire 1 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions 

(VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 13 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, 

assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes. Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC seeks the requested 
relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Inspire 1

UA will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC

proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. 

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, the DJI Inspire 1 operating 

documents, and Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC's proposed operating limitations, ensure that Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will 

safely operate the battery powered DJI Inspire 1 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), 

under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13 minutes to the first point of 

intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 5 minutes.

14 CFR 45.23(b)

Marking of the Aircraft;

Applicable codes of Federal Regulation require aircraft to be marked according to certain specifications. Skylab 

Aerial Imaging, LLC UASs are, by definition, unmanned. They therefore do not have a cabin, cockpit or pilot station on 

which to mark certain words or phrases. Further, two inch lettering is difficult to place on such small aircraft. 

Regardless, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will mark its UAS in the largest possible lettering by placing the "N "number on 

its fuselage as required by 14 CFR 45.29 (f) so that the pilot, technician, spotter and others working with the UAV will 

see the markings. The FAA has previously issued exemptions to this regulation through- Exemption No 10167 and 

10700

5. 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 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 with an 

airworthiness certificate, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC requests relief from these Sections because the DJI Inspire 1 UAS do 

not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA 

Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will use trained 

technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques,

and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC Aerial Operations Manual, 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will document 

and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Inspire 1 UAS. 

The Reasons for granting my request are entirely beneficial to the public and community as a whole. 

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC to safely, 

efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, survey and inspect 

over certain areas of the United States. To assist other businesses in helping them grow from my services or rather, to 

fulfill their needs, whatever it may be. 

This exemption application is expressly submitted to fulfill Congress’ goal in passing Section 333(a) through (c) of 

the Reform Act. This law directs the Secretary of Transportation to consider whether certain unmanned aircraft systems 

may operate safely in the national airspace system (NAS) before completion of the rule making required under Section 

332 of the Reform Act. In making this determination, the Secretary is required to determine which types of UAS do not 

create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public or pose a threat to national security in light of the following:

• The UAS’s size, weight, speed and operational capability;

• Operation of the UAS in close proximity to airports and populated areas; and
• Operation of the UAS within visual line of sight of the operator.

Reform Act § 333 (a). Lastly, id. the Secretary determines that such vehicles “may operate safely in the national airspace 

system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft in the national airspace system.” 

Id. §333(c).

 

 Given the small size of the UAS involved and the restricted sterile environment within which they will operate, the 

applicant falls squarely within that zone of safety (an equivalent level of safety) in which Congress envisioned that the 

FAA must, by exemption, allow commercial operations of UASs to commence immediately. Also due to the size of the 

UASs and the restricted areas in which the relevant UAS will operate, approval of the application presents no national 

security issue. Given the clear direction in Section 333 of the Reform Act, the authority contained in the Federal Aviation 

Act, as amended; the strong equivalent level of safety surrounding the proposed operations, and the significant public 

benefit, including enhanced safety, reduction in environmental impacts, including reduced emissions associated with 

allowing UASs for movie and television operations, the grant of the requested exemptions is in the public interest. 

Accordingly, the applicant respectfully requests that the FAA grant the requested exemption without delay.

REASONS BENEFICIAL TO THE PUBLIC/COMMUNITY

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

The DJI Inpsire 1 UA are battery powered and serve 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 use of a DJI Inspire 1 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 around airports 

caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The DJI Inspire 1 UA do not require an airport to takeoff or land.

Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography 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.

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI Inspire 1 UAS. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the 

public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still 

photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS produce no air pollution,

and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine 

aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20-30 gallons per hour of 

leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Inspire 1 UA, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise 

pollution, as the UAs are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. 

By using the DJI Inspire 1 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 eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located on-board the aircraft, the DJI Inspire 1 UA 

(weighing approximately 6 pounds 7 ounces, at their maximum gross weights with length of 16 inches, widths of 17 

inches, and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, 

and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 

pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). 
3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography, Surveys and Inspections, Operations With The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Will 

Benefit The Economy. 

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are also an economical alternative to using manned 

aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will allow United States based 

companies, like Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC, to remain competitive 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 DJI Inspire 1 UAS is one such 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 DJI Inspire 1 UAS, companies such as Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC, 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 use of the DJI 

Inspire 1 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 abroad. 

4. There Are No Privacy Issues. 

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, Skylab Aerial Imaging, 

LLC's proposed operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS 

will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., the Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC Aerial Operations 

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as 

well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the 

minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

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 Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The DJI Inspire 1 UA Meet The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization 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, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and

will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

In seeking this exemption, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC submits that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS can operate safely in the 

NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS; (b) the pilot 

certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Inspire 1 UAS do 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 operational capability. 

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Inspire 1 UAS. 

The technical specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are set forth by the DJI Inspire 1 Specifications and Data 

Sheet.

ii. The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UAS To Remain Within A 

Defined Operational Area. 
The DJI Inspire 1 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight modes. A complete 

description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS User Manuals.

iii. The DJI Inspire1 Are Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss Of The 

Control Link Or Navigation.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Inspire 1 UA will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3

seconds, the DJI Inspire 1 UA does not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAs will assume that the Control Link

is lost and the UAs will return to the home position (i.e., fail-safe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position 

and shutdown. 

A complete description of the Fail-safe Functions of the DJI Inspire 1 UA are set forth in the DJI inspire 1 User 

Manual, attached.

iv. The DJI Inspire 1 GCS And Its Operation. 

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 GCS and flight control software is 

provided in the DJI Inspire 1 User Manual, attached. 

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Inspire 1 UAS Are Limited To The Visual Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in 

Command With A Safety Observer. 

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid airman medical 

certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist all pilots 

during flight time. 

c. Flights Of DJI Inspire 1 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC proposes to commercially operate DJI Inspire 1 UAS for the 

special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following

specific operating limitations:

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the 

operating documents, rotorcraft UASs weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Isnpire 1 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition 

to amend this grant. 

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of aerial video 

and photography, surveys, and inspections.

3. The UA may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 45 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the 

procedures specified in the operating documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All 

altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 

5. The UAs 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 FAAissued airman medical certificate. 

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted. 
7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long 

as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. 

Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be designated before 

the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the 

SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents. 

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic 

and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other 

instruments. 

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during UAS operations and made 

available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations 

contained in the grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions 

and limitations contained in the grant of exemption 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 upon request. The operator must also present updated and 

revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator 

determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, 

then the operator must petition for 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. 

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that 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 performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for 

safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the pre-flight inspection. All maintenance and 

alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records.

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics,

e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts 

the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records. 

12. The pre-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. inoperable components, items, or 

equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating documents. 

13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, 

inspection, and life limit requirements. 

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance 

with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul 

component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work 

accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS to service. 

15. Each UASs operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety Bulletins. 
16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the corrective action taken against 

discrepancies discovered between inspections. 

17. The PIC must meet or exceed all requirements as set forth by manufacturer in order to justifiably operate the 

DJI Inspire 1, or hold an equivalent pilot license approved by the FAA. 

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the operator’s qualification criteria and 

demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated 

under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances 

from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours must be logged in a manner 

consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are permitted 

under the terms of the 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 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

19. 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 conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be 

made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) 

are not authorized. 

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAApublished aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and 

the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of 

agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request. 

21. 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. 

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre- determined location within the 

planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents. 

23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the 

operating documents. 

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there 

is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% 

battery power remaining. 

25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) 

prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to 

request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to 

the operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued 

COA including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements. 
26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identification (N- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. 

part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 

27. Before conducting operations, the 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. 

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground 

Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the 

Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. 

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all 

times. 

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

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than 

the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, 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 protection. 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 owner/controller of such vessels, 

vehicles or structures has granted permission 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, and; 

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue 

hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a). 

32. 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 for each flight to be conducted.

33. 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 (AFS80) 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

Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC AFFIRMS ALL INFORMATION LISTED ABOVE TO BE TRUE AND BINDING UPON FAA’S 

FINDINGS OF EXEMPTION REGARDING COMMERCIAL OPPERATIONS OF LISTED UAS, UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE OF LAWS 

OR REGULATIONS DECIDED BY THE GOVERNEMENT/FAA. THANKYOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.
Skylab Aerial Imaging, LLC

Joseph K. Schindler