1 March, 14 2016

Attn: U. S. Department of Transportation Docket Operations West Building Ground Floor, Room w12

- 140 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: KALEB THOLEN dba. THOLEN VISUALS REQUEST AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS 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 DJI Phantom 3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS PURSUANT
TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112

- 95)

Kaleb Tholen
Tholen Visuals
17161 Alva Road
Unit 2121 San Diego, CA 92127
858

- 525

- 53482 **TABLE OF CONTENTS**

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS.............................

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

SUMMARY......................................................................................

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

INTRODUCTION AND INTE RESTS OF PETITIONER..........

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

BACKGROUND..................................................................

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

BASIS FOR PETITION.............

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

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER...........................

... ............................. ............6

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH THOLEN VISUALS SEEKS
EXEMPTION...............................................

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

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF THOLEN VISUALS SEEKS AND THE REASON
THOLEN VISUALS SEEKS THE RELIEF............................

...... ......... ........... .. .............10

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THOLEN VISUALS ’ REQUEST WOULD BE IN
THE PUBLIC INTEREST .......................................

.................. ......... ............ ..... .............12

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION TO THOLEN VISUALS
WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY.................

........ .............. .......... ..........14

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED I N THE FEDERAL REGISTER.....

.......... 25

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO
SUPPORT THOLEN VISUALS’ REQUEST............................................

.. . ........ ... ......25

CONCLUSION.............................................

............................. ........................................25

APPENDICES.............................................

.............................. ..................... ...... ............ 263 **GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS**

AGL Above Ground Level
AOI Area of Interest
ATC Air Traffic Control
ATO Air Traffic Organization
AV Aerial Vehicle
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
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 In Command
SECTION 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)
SO Safety Observer
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
UA Unmanned Aircraft
UAS Unmanned Aircraft System
VFR Visual Flight Rules
VLOS Visual Line of Site
VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions
VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 SUMMARY

Kaleb Tholen, dba. Tholen Visua ls hereafter referred to as THOLEN VISUALS 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 (DJI Phantom 3) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption wil l permit Tholen
Visuals to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, resident ial and commercial real estate, civil landscapes and events over certain areas of the United
States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

THOLEN VISUALS has for over twenty years provided their clients (which include private sector businesses and non

- profits ) with expertise and knowledge in video , film, photography, multimedia mar keting, and advertising

, using advanced technologies and
solutions. THOLEN VISUALS has worked on thousands of productions over the past twenty years in all types of locations with a perfect client and employee safety record. In the past we have supplied ou r clients aerial video and photography using commercial aircraft. The objective of Tholen Visuals and our Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3) aerial operations is to provide a more affordable, high

- quality production system for a variety of commercial , public, and residential uses, specifically targeting

• Construction sites before and after

• Appraisals

• Real

- estate marketing

• Civic landmarks

• Special event coverage

• Film & Television

We have safely flown small RC electric quadcopters re creationally for approximately 4 years without incident.

**BACKGROUND**

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3, UAS

Tholen Visuals seeks an exemption to operate DJI Phantom 3 system for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone syst ems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of approximately 2.8 lb. while having a diagonal dimension of 23.2”, a maximum speed of approximately 16.4’fps and a maximum flying height of 400'. The DJI Phantom 3 is equipped with four main rotors; drive n by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric

motors.5 The DJI Phantom 3 that will be operated by Tholen Visuals 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 marke d in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking.

**BASIS FOR PETITION**

Petitioner, Tholen Visuals , 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 Phantom 3, UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an 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).

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Tholen Vi suals operation of DJI Phantom 3 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, Tholen Visuals 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.

Tholen Visuals submits that the requested relief is proper since an equival ent level of safety will be ensured. Tholen Visuals will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents ( i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Tholen Visuals
will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command , is requested by Tholen Visuals to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonst rated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from pe ople, vessels, vehicles and structures.

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

, because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Tholen Visuals submits that they will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight.6 Tholen Visuals also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS 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 Tholen Visuals’ operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a
level of safet y equivalent to Section 91.121.

Additionally, Tholen Visuals seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. Tholen Visuals submits that safety will not be affected by operation of th e DJI Phantom 3 UAS 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 23 minutes. Battery power indicators are also able to show exactly h ow much battery power is left, as well as how much time is needed to return safely back to point of take off.

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Tholen Visuals provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Ad dress Of The Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is:

Kaleb Tholen
Tholen Visuals
17161 Alva Road
Unit 2121 San Diego, CA 92127
858

- 525

- 5348
kaleb@tholenvisuals.com7 **B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption.**

**1. Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption From 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 the following, in relevant part:

(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, 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.

**2. Tholen Visuals**  **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. Tholen Visuals**  **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 aircraft, 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 altime ter 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 stati on; 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.8 **4. Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).**

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirement s for flight in VFR conditions

, subsection

(b), states 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 least 20 minutes.

**5. Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).**

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required

, subsection (a), states the following: 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. Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1)**

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration , su bsection (a)(1), states the following:

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless

--

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter[.]

**7. Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).** 

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), states 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 inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.9 **8. Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.417(a) And 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:

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration
and records of the 100

- hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft.
The records must include

--

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the wo rk 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 ser vice 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

ar e required to be overhauled on a specified time basis.

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained.

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required.

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances.10 (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 re tained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for return to service.

**C. The Extent Of Relief Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks And The Reason Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks**
**The Relief.**

**1. Extent Of Relief Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks And The Reason Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Relief From Section 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 or higher level certificat e, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire.

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth i n 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 no t carry passengers or property for compensation
or hire.

As set forth more fully below, Tholen Visuals submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS
unless that PIC has met ce rtain flight

- hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and

emergency maneuve rs, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels,
vehicles and structures.

Further, Tholen Visuals submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Tholen Visuals’ business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.11 **2. Extent Of Relief Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks And The Reason Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).** 

Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil ai rcraft airworthiness , is requested to the extent required to allow Tholen Visuals to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Tholen Visuals Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual).

Tholen Visuals seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore,
Tholen Visuals will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon it s compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3) 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. Extent Of Relief**  **Tholen Visuals Seeks And The Reason**  **Tholen Visuals Seeks** 
**Relief From Section 91.121.**

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , may be required to allow flight operations of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure s ensor, 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), Tholen Visuals seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before ea ch 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 Phantom 3 UAS 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. Extent Of Relief Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks And The Reason Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).** 

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR cond itions , is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 23 minutes. Tholen Visuals seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of
the12 battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that Tholen Visuals proposes to conduct pursuant to
this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, the DJI Phantom 3 operating documents, and Tholen Visuals ’ proposed operating limitations, ensure that Tholen Visuals will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23
minutes.

**5. Extent Of Relief Tholen Vis**  **uals Seeks And The Reason**  **Tholen Visuals Seeks**  **Relief From Sections 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, Tholen Visuals requests relief from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet the conditi ons of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Tholen
Visuals will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices pres cribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the Tholen Visuals Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Tholen Visuals
will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 U AS.

**D. The Reasons Why Granting Tholen Visuals**  **Request Would Be In The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole.** 

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing Tholen Visuals to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of film & television work, construction sites, real estate, events

, and civic landscape

, over certain
areas of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of
Tholen Visuals ’ proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

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

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the13 amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing
the use of a DJI Phantom 3 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 propert y 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 Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airport to takeoff o r 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 operat ions.

**2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Effic iency Of The DJI Phantom 3.** 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 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 oper ations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 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 utilize d for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20

- 30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS, 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 Phantom 3 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 onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS (weighing approximately 2.8 pounds at their maximum gross weight
with diagonal dimension of 23.2 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

approx imately 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 Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Benefit The Economy.** 

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will allow United States based companies, like
Tholen Visuals , to remain comp etitive 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 Phantom 3 UAS is one such technology14 that not only allows companies greater operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility wit hout the high operational cost of a traditional
manned aircraft.

By operating the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, companies such as Tholen Visuals , 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 Phantom 3 UAS, provides a stable workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal ta x 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 conducte d for decades, Tholen Visuals’ proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., Tholen Visuals Aerial Operations Manua l, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 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 Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption.**

**1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 UAS 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, Tholen Visuals ’ operation of the DJI Phantom 3 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.

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certi fication and sets forth 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.

-- Notw ithstanding 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.15 (b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

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

--

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

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of u nmanned 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 in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall es tablish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.

In seeking this exemption, Tholen Visuals submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

**a. T he Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.** 

The DJI Phantom 3 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 DJI Phantom 3 UAS.**

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A.

**ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Global Positioning Modes Enable The UAS To**  **Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.**

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided at pages 11 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual attached hereto as Appendix A.

**iii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS 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 P hantom 3 UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not reacquire16 control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that the Control Link is lost and the will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown.

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth at pages 12 through 14 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appen dix
A.

**iv. The DJI Phantom 3 GCS And Its Operation.**

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 23 through 29 of the DJI Phantom 3 User
Manual. DJI Phantom 3 User Ma nual is attached hereto as Appendix A.

**b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.** 

Tholen Visuals video production staff will be the only persons to act as a pilot i n command (PIC) of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist him at all times during flight time.

**c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations.** 

In seeking this exemption, Tholen Vis uals proposes to commercially operate DJI Phantom 3 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 gran t of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 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.

3. The UAS may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. 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 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 FAA

- issued airman medical
certificate.17 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

cap ability. 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 o f 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 t he 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 opera ting 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 operat ing 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 (AF S

- 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 affe cts 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 preflight inspecti on. 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,

mu st 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, n ot already covered in the relevant sections of the operating documents.18 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 i ts 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 i n service, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UAS
to service.

15. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety Bulletins.

16. The authorized person must make an en try in the aircraft record of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current
third

- class medical certificate.

18. The operator may no t 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 mane uvers 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 permitt ed 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 nonpar ticipants, 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 vi sual 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 FAA

- published 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 the19 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 po wer 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
wit h 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 th e 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 al l 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),

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 remain20 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 st ructures 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 per sons 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 (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.

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

Tholen Visuals submits 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 DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Considering Tholen Visuals’ proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations
set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeron autical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, Tholen Visuals submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a co mmercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Tholen Visuals’ specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, i n all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).21 Tholen Visuals will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour requirements or the DJI Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI
Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this e xemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels,
vehicles and structures.

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5
hours of those

hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes).

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during T holen Visuals’ proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows:

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required t hat prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi

- rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations unde r the exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be included in the 10 hours of multi

- rotor time and the 10 hours may be
included in the total 2 5 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight

hour requirements in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would sati sfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights the PIC is required to ope rate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, Tholen Visuals will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum22 flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, v essels,
vehicles and structures.

**3. Reasons Why An Exemption From 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, Thole n Visuals will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and
as stated in the conditions and limitations herein.

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Sec tion 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, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 1 1160, 11161).

**4. Reasons Why An Exemption From 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 DJI Phantom 3 UAS 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 and altitude. This altitude information, combined with Tholen Visuals’ operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 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. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground level.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemptio n Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

**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 equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the loc ation of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Tholen Visuals will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 323 UAS; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Sec tion 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery

power, a nd again at approximately 10% remaining battery

power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will descend and land automatically.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety i s 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, 5 745, 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. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 1 1066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

**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, Tholen Visuals 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
Tholen Visuals will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Tholen Visuals Aeria l Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Tholen
Visuals will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS.

Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by t he operating documents, Tholen Visuals will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals are attached hereto as Appendix A and B; a copy of the DJI Phant om 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Appendix C.

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Tholen Visuals will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenance on the UAS using t he methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating documents.

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the
DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be24 documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the
UAS are considered.

In consideration of Tholen Visuals’ proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and t he technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, Tholen Visuals 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). The FAA has previously g ranted relief 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, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 1 1160, 11161).

**7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.**

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, Tholen Visuals requests that
the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 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), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the 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; and furthe r, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in the
NAS.

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions p ursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or 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 unus ual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards for th e aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations.25 See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.

Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe special conditions for Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to

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

**• A Summary That Can Be Publi shed In The Federal Register, stating: The** 
**Rules From Which Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks Exemption:**

Tholen Visuals 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 Tholen Visuals**  **Seeks:**

This exemption will permit Tholen Visuals to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

**• Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support**
**Tholen Visuals’**  **Request.**

This Petition is made pursuant 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, Tholen Visuals’ request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above.

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the 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; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to ope rate without airworthiness
certification.

As discussed in detail above, Tholen Visuals will operate the DJI Phantom 3 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.

CO NCLUSION

As set forth herein, Tholen Visuals 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 DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airwor thiness26 certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Refo rm Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing Tholen Visuals to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially
within the NAS.

**WHEREFORE** , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Tholen Visuals 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 Leading Edge to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

Dated: March 14, 2016

Respectfully submitted,

Kaleb Tholen
Tholen Visuals
17161 Alva Road
Unit 2121 San Diego, CA 92127
858

- 525

- 5348

Appendices:

A

– Link to DJI Phantom 3 Manual: Click on link below

http://download.dji

- innovati ons.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professional_User_Manual_v1.2_en.pdf