UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC 

Regulatory Docket No. _______________ 

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

Michigan Aerial Photography

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF 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)

Submitted on August 27, 2015 

Brandon Lee Kilburn 

Michigan Aerial Photography 

 7710 Timbercreek Ct.APT #1 

Portage, MI 49024 

Tel: (269) 903-5612 
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 

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

SUMMARY...........................................................................................................................4 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER...................................................4 

BACKGROUND...................................................................................................................5 

BASIS FOR PETITION........................................................................................................5 

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER............................................................8 

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH Michigan Aerial 

Photography SEEKS EXEMPTION.........................................................................8 

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF Michigan Aerial Photography SEEKS AND THE 

REASON Michigan Aerial Photography SEEKS THE 

RELIEF....................................................................................................................12 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING Michigan Aerial Photography REQUEST 

WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST...........................................................15 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT 

ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY..........................................................................19 

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER......33 

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS 

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT Michigan Aerial Photography 

REQUEST................................................................................................................33 

CONCLUSION....................................................................................................................34 

APPENDICES.....................................................................................................................36 
3

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) Section 333

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 Landing 
4

SUMMARY

Michigan Aerial Photography seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R 

§§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & 

(a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 

333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will 

permit Michigan Aerial Photography to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for 

the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, 

real estate, special events, film sets, and landscape over certain areas of the United States. 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Michigan Aerial Photography is a family owned and operated business who 

provides its clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced technologies and solutions 

to increase efficiency, productivity and effectiveness. I offer this service as a small side 

business on top of working full time in IT Support for Stryker Medical to better support 

my family. Michigan Aerial Photography also provides its clients with the highest quality 

digital content for use in their commercial, personal, and non-profit multimedia projects. 

Michigan Aerial Photography has over 5 years of professional experience in photography 

and videotaping. I have over 4 years of recreational/hobby experience in building, flying, 

and maintaining multi-rotor’s including all aspects of aerial video and photography without 

any incidents. The objective of Michigan Aerial Photography aerial video and photography 

operations is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of commercial, public, and 

residential uses, targeting: 

 Aerial inspections of public and private structures. 

 Search and Rescue operations 

 Aerial photography/videography of houses / residential and commercial 

buildings 

 Aerial event photography/videography 

 Aerial event filming 

 Aerial Appraisals 

 Real Estate Marketing 

 Insurance Inspections of Home and Property 

 Commercial Advertising Video and Photography 

 Real Estate Photography and Videography 

 FREE services offered to our community, firefighter and state officials 

 Nature Monitoring 
5

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

Michigan Aerial Photography seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation 

or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) 

Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet 

or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of 2 pounds 

13.1 ounces, a length of 16.2 inches, width of 16.6 inches, height of 10.5 inches, and a 

maximum speed of approximately 31.1 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 UA is equipped with 

four main rotors; Driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors. The DJI 

Phantom 3 UA that will be operated by Michigan Aerial Photography and will be 

registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 

44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and 

marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking. 

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, Michigan Aerial Photography, pursuant to the pros 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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. 
6

Michigan Aerial Photography submits that the requested relief is proper since an 

equivalent level of safety will be ensured. Michigan Aerial Photography 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan Aerial Photography 

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 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 this exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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, Michigan Aerial 

Photography submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are 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 Phantom 3 Instruction 

Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. 
7

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan 

Aerial Photography operation of DJI Phantom 3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 

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

Additionally, Michigan Aerial Photography seeks an exemption from the requirements of 

Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. Michigan 

Aerial Photography submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the 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 

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

fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Michigan Aerial Photography provides the 

following information in support of its petition for exemption: 
8

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

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

Brandon Lee Kilburn 

Michigan Aerial Photography 

7710 Timbercreek Ct.APT #1 

Portage, MI 49024 

Tel: (269) 903-5612 

E-mail: Brandon@MI-Aerial.com

B. The Specific Sections of 14 C.F.R. From Which Michigan Aerial Photography 

Seeks Exemption. 

1. Michigan Aerial Photography 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. Michigan Aerial Photography 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. Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Section 91.121. 
9

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 altimeter setting of a station along the route and 

within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft; 

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a) (1) (i) 

of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate 

available station; or 

(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the 

departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before 

departure. 

4. Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Section 91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements 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. Michigan Aerial Photography 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[.] 
10

6. Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Section 91.407(a) (1) 

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, 

rebuilding, or alteration, subsection (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. Michigan Aerial Photography 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. 

8. Michigan Aerial Photography 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-- 
11

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

the work performed; and 

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

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

aircraft for return to service. 

(2) Records containing the following information: 

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

and each rotor. 

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

propeller, rotor, and appliance. 

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

are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis. 

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

last inspection required by the inspection program under which the 

aircraft and its appliances are maintained. 

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

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

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

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

required. 

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

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

propellers, and appliances. 

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

prescribed: 

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

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

work is performed. 

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

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

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

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

approved for return to service. 
12

C. The Extent Of Relief Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks And The Reason 

Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks The Relief. 

1. Extent Of Relief Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks And The Reason 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 certificate, 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 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 certain 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 maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances 

from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Further, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 
13

Michigan Aerial Photography business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire. 

2. Extent Of Relief Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks And The Reason 

Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a). 

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

extent required to allow Michigan Aerial Photography 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., the Michigan Aerial Photography Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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, Michigan Aerial Photography will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents 

(i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 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. Extent Of Relief Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks And The Reason 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 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), Michigan Aerial Photography seeks the 
14

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 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 Phantom 3 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. Extent Of Relief Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks And The Reason 

Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks Relief From Section 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 

Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under 

visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended 

landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

Michigan Aerial Photography seeks the requested relief because without an exemption 

from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 

UAs will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight 

operations that Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan Aerial Photography 

proposed operating limitations, ensure that Michigan Aerial Photography will safely 

operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual 
15

meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery 

power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, 

assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 

5. Extent Of Relief Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks And The Reason 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 

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 

conditions of 

FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, 

Michigan Aerial Photography will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, 

alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and 

practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the Michigan Aerial 

Photography Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, Sky will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 

3 UAS. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan 

Aerial Photography to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and 
16

photography of construction sites, real estate, special events, film sets, and 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 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 the 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 

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 Phantom 3 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 

Phantom 3 UAS. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UASs, instead of manned 

aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise 
17

pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. 

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 utilized for aerial video 

and photography, while burning approximately 20-30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation 

fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 UA, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, 

also eliminates noise pollution, as the UA 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 UA (weighing approximately 2 pounds 13.1 ounces respectively, at its 

maximum gross weight with a length of 16.2 inches and width of 16.6 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 Operations with 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 
18

Michigan Aerial Photography, 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 Phantom 3 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 Phantom 3 UAS, companies such as Michigan Aerial 

Photography, 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 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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., the Michigan Aerial Photography 

Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction 

Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement 
19

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 Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks 

Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 

certification 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.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not 

later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 

Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may 

operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the plan and 

rulemaking required by section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by 

section 334 of this Act. 

(b) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.--In making the determination under 

subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

(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 airspace system or the public or pose a 

threat to national security; and
20

(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 unmanned aircraft systems 

identified under paragraph (1). 

(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines under this 

section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the 

national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe 

operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system. 

In seeking this exemption, Michigan Aerial Photography 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. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe 

Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 3 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 Phantom 3 UAS. 

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth by the DJI 

Phantom 3 Specifications and Data Sheet, attached hereto as Exhibit A. 

ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation 

Modes Enable The UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational 

Area. 

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight 

modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS is provided in the Manufacturer’s User Manual *See attached PDF File 

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. 
21

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UA will remain stationary, in 

flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UA do 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., 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 is 

provided in the Manufacturer’s User Manual *See attached PDF

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 in the Manufacturer’s User Manual *See 

attached PDF

b.Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Are Limited To The Line Of 

Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer. 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Phantom 3 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist 

all pilots during flight time. 

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

Operating Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 grant of exemption will be limited to the 

following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs 
22

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 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 unaided by any device 

other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued 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 res 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 
23

that any update or re 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 res 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 

preflight 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 possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current 

third- class medical certificate. 

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. 
24

§ 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 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 the 

PIC. 

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a 

predetermined 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 
25

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 (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. 
26

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) 

And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan Aerial Photography proposed area of operations, and the 

operating limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical 

knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 

11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, 

Michigan Aerial Photography submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of 

a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for 

Michigan Aerial Photography specific proposed flight operations. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) 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, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. 
27

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 Michigan Aerial Photography 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 that 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 under 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 25 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 satisfy 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 operate the UA with appropriate 

distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. 

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. 
28

Accordingly, Michigan Aerial Photography will ensure safe operations by not 

allowing any PIC 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. 

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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Section 91.7(a) specific 

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

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 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 UA will be provided to the PIC via 

GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from 

the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude 

information, combined with Michigan Aerial Photography operation of the DJI Phantom 3 

UA within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety 
29

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 UASs 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. Exemption 

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 location 

of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Michigan Aerial Photography will ensure 

that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in 

VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to 

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

at least 

4.5 minutes. 

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 

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. Section 

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, and again at 
30

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 is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and 

operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned 

aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including 

Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief 

from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to 

those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 

11064, 11065, 11066, 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan Aerial Photography 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., 

the Michigan Aerial Photography Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, 

and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Michigan Aerial Photography will 

document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. 
31

Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating 

documents, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Exhibit B; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Exhibit C. 

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

Aerial Photography will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or 

preventive maintenance on the UAS using the 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 be 

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 Michigan Aerial Photography proposed operating limitations, 

the operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, Michigan 

Aerial Photography 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 granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all 
32

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, 11160, 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, Michigan Aerial Photography 

requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs, 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 UA 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 further, 

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 pursuant 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: 
33

If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain 

adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller 

because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or 

propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. 

The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and 

contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the 

FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in 

the regulations. 

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 Michigan Aerial Photography 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 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). 

F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The Rules 

From Which Michigan Aerial Photography Seeks Exemption: 

Michigan Aerial Photography 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 Michigan Aerial 

Photography Seeks: 

This exemption will permit Michigan Aerial Photography to commercially operate 

an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video 

and photography over certain areas of the United States.

G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support 

Michigan Aerial Photography Request. 

This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 
34

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

UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 operate without airworthiness 

certification. 

As discussed in detail above, Michigan Aerial Photography 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. 

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, Michigan Aerial Photography 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 airworthiness 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 

Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing 

Michigan Aerial Photography to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS commercially within the NAS. 
35

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

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Michigan Aerial Photography 

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 Michigan Aerial 

Photography 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: August 27, 2015 

Respectfully submitted, 

Michigan Aerial Photography 

Brandon Kilburn 

_________________________ 

Brandon Lee Kilburn 

 7710 Timbercreek CT APT#1 

 Portage, MI 49024 

Tel: (269) 903-5612 

 E-mail: Brandon@MI-Aerial.com 
36

Appendices: 

A – DJI Phantom 3 Technical Specifications 

B – DJI Phantom 3 Monthly Maintenance Log 

APPENDIX – A

DJI PHANTOM 3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Michigan Aerial Photography only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in 

small UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user 

to set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight to a 

predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude and 

location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices) 

Aircraft

WEIGHT (INCLUDING BATTERY AND PROPELLERS)

1280 g

DIAGONAL SIZE (INCLUDING PROPELLERS)

590 mm

MAX ASCENT SPEED

5 m/s

MAX DESCENT SPEED

3 m/s

HOVER ACCURACY 

• Vertical: +/- 0.1 m (when Positioning is active) or +/- 0.5 m

• Horizontal: +/- 1.5 m

MAX SPEED

16 m/s (ATTI mode, no wind)

MAX ALTITUDE ABOVE SEA LEVEL

6000 m
37

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

0°C to 40°C

GPS MODE

GPS/GLONASS

SENSOR

Sony EXMOR 1/2.3” Effective pixels: 12.4 M (total pixels: 12.76 M)

LENS

FOV 94° 20 mm (35 mm format equivalent) f/2.8, focus at ∞

ISO RANGE

100-3200 (video) 100-1600 (photo) 

SHUTTER SPEED

8s -1/8000s

IMAGE MAX SIZE

4000 x 3000

Camera STILL PHOTOGRAPHY MODES 

• Single Shot

• Burst Shooting: 3/5/7 shots

• Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 3/5

• Bracketed Frames at 0.7EV Bias

 Time-lapse VIDEO 

RECORDING MODES 

Phantom 3 Professional 

• UHD: 4096x2160p 24/25, 3840x2160p 24/25/30

• FHD: 1920x1080p 24/25/30/48/50/60

• HD: 1280x720p 24/25/30/48/50/60

Phantom 3 Advanced 

• FHD: 1920x1080p 24/25/30/48/50/60

• HD: 1280x720p 24/25/30/48/50/60

SUPPORTED SD CARD TYPES
38

Micro SD

Max capacity: 64 GB. Class 10 or UHS-1 rating required

MAX BITRATE OF VIDEO STORAGE 

Phantom 3 Professional

60 Mbps

Phantom 3 Advanced 

40 Mbps

SUPPORTED FILE FORMATS

• FAT32/exFAT

• Photo: JPEG, DNG

• Video: MP4, MOV (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264)

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

0°C to 40°C

CONTROLLABLE RANGE

Gimbal Pitch -90° to +30°

STABILIZATION

3-axis (pitch, roll, yaw)

Positioning

MAX VELOCITY

Less than 8 m/s (when 2 m above ground)

ALTITUDE RANGE

30 cm-300 cm

OPERATING RANGE 

30 cm-300 cm

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT

Surface with clear pattern and adequate lighting (Lux > 15)

OPERATING FREQUENCY

2.400 GHz-2.483 GHz

MAX DISTANCE

2000m (outdoors and unobstructed)

VIDEO OUTPUT PORT 

USB
39

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

0°C- 40°C

BATTERY 

Remote 

Controller 6000 mAh LiPo 2S

MOBILE DEVICE HOLDER

For tablet or phone

RECEIVER SENSITIVITY (1%PER)

-101 dBm ±2 dBm

TRANSMITTER POWER (EIRP)

• FCC: 20 dBm

• CE: 16 dBm

WORKING VOLTAGE

1.2 A @7.4 V

Battery 

Charger

VOLTAGE

17.4 V

RATED POWER

Phantom 3 Professional

 100 W

Phantom 3 Advanced

 57 W

CAPACITY

4480 mAh

VOLTAGE

15.2 V

BATTERY TYPE

LiPo 4S

ENERGY 

Intelligent 

68 Wh

Flight Battery NET WEIGHT
40

365 g

MAX FLIGHT TIME

Approximately 23 minutes 

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

-10°C to 40°C

MAX CHARGING POWER

100 W

App / Live

View

MOBILE APP

DJI Pilot

EIRP

100mW

LIVE VIEW WORKING FREQUENCY

2.4GHz ISM

LIVE VIEW QUALITY

720P @ 30fps (depending on conditions and mobile device)

LATENCY 

220ms (depending on conditions and mobile device)

REQUIRED OPERATING SYSTEMS

• iOS 8.0 or later

• Android 4.1.2 or later

RECOMMENDED DEVICES 

• iOS: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad Air Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad 

mini 2, iPad mini 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air 2, iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad 

mini 3, and iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular. This app is optimized for iPhone 5s, 

iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus

• Android: Samsung S5, Note 3, Sony Xperia Z3, Google Nexus 7 II, Google Nexus 

9, Mi 3, Nubia Z7 mini

• *Support for additional Android devices available as testing and development 

continues 
41

APPENDIX – B 

 Monthly Maintenance Log 

UAS #_____ Date Issue Maintenance 

Performed 

Initials 

Firmware 

Check 

 

Frame 

Engines 

Propellers 

Camera 

Gimbal 

Landing 

Gear 

Vibration 

Other: