September 25, 2015

Exemption No. 13001

Regulatory Docket No. FAA−2015−2810

Mr. Hally E. Dinkel 

Dering Harbor, LLC dba Aerial Hamptons

183 North Ferry Road

Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965

Dear Mr. Dinkel:

This letter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our 

decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations of the exemption, 

including the date it ends.

By letter dated June 9, 2015, you petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 

behalf of Dering Harbor, LLC dba Aerial Hamptons (hereinafter petitioner or operator) for an 

exemption. The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to 

conduct video and photography of construction sites, building inspections, agricultural lands, 

outdoor recreational facilities, real estate, special events, and landscapes.

See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA describing the proposed operations and 

the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption.

The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition 

in the Federal Register because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any 

delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner.

Airworthiness Certification

The UAS proposed by the petitioner are the DJI S900 and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+.

In accordance with the statutory criteria provided in Section 333 of Public Law 112−95 in 

reference to 49 U.S.C. § 44704, and in consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited 

operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation, the Secretary of Transportation 
2

has determined that this aircraft meets the conditions of Section 333. Therefore, the FAA 

finds that relief from 14 CFR part 21, Certification procedures for products and parts, 

Subpart H—Airworthiness Certificates, and any associated noise certification and testing 

requirements of part 36, is not necessary.

The Basis for Our Decision

You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection1. The FAA has issued grants of 

exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. 

In Grants of Exemption Nos. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 

11109 to Clayco, Inc. (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (see

Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Labs, Inc. (see Docket No. 

FAA−2014−0642), the FAA found that the enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned 

aircraft (UA) with the specifications described by the petitioner and carrying no passengers or 

crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater proportions, carrying crew in 

addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled 

by this exemption is in the public interest.

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

 They are similar in all material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213;

 The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 

11213 also apply to the situation you present; and 

 A grant of exemption is in the public interest.

Our Decision

In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. 

Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, 

delegated to me by the Administrator, Dering Harbor, LLC dba Aerial Hamptons is granted 

an exemption from 14 CFR §§ 61.23(a) and (c), 61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a), 

91.7(a), 91.119(c), 91.121, 91.151(a)(1), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 

91.417(a) and (b), to the extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform 

aerial data collection. This exemption is subject to the conditions and limitations listed 

below.

 

1 Aerial data collection includes any remote sensing and measuring by an instrument(s) aboard the UA. 

Examples include imagery (photography, video, infrared, etc.), electronic measurement (precision surveying, RF 

analysis, etc.), chemical measurement (particulate measurement, etc.), or any other gathering of data by 

instruments aboard the UA.
3

Conditions and Limitations

In this grant of exemption, Dering Harbor, LLC dba Aerial Hamptons is hereafter referred to 

as the operator.

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be 

grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

.

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the DJI S900 and the 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. 

Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to 

amend this exemption.

2. Operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and television filming are 

not permitted. 

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (100 miles per hour). The 

exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine 

compliance with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at 

airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the 

aircraft manufacturer.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level 

(AGL). Altitude must be reported in feet AGL.

5. The UA must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. 

This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than

corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued airman medical certificate or 

U.S. driver’s license.

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within 

the visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used 

to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS 

capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times; 

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 VO can perform the duties 

required of the VO.

7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its 

operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this grant of 

exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating 

documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the 

Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and 
4

limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, 

the conditions and limitations herein take precedence and must be followed. 

Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating 

documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the 

operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised 

documents to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. The 

operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension 

or amendment to this grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update 

or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then 

the operator must petition for an amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s 

UAS Integration Office (AFS−80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding 

updates or revisions to the operating documents.

8. Any UAS that has undergone 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 prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. 

Functional test flights may only be conducted by a PIC with a VO and must remain at 

least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such 

a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property.

9. The operator is responsible for maintaining and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is 

in a condition for safe operation.

10. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre-flight inspection and determine the 

UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre-flight inspection must account for all 

potential discrepancies, e.g., inoperable components, items, or equipment. If the 

inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is 

prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the 

UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight.

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, 

replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and 

aircraft components.

12. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer 

safety bulletins.

13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, 

commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a 

current FAA airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a 

state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal 

government. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 

14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate.
5

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the 

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

operated under this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC 

qualification flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with 

14 CFR § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs and VOs 

(training, proficiency, and experience-building) and determining the PIC’s ability to 

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

under this exemption are permitted under the terms of this exemption. However, 

training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During 

training, proficiency, and experience-building flights, all persons not essential for 

flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA 

with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

15. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All 

operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights 

under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point (ARP) as 

denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not 

denoted with an ARP, the center of the airport symbol as denoted on the current 

FAA-published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s 

management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption 

holder. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available 

to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

17. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet 

horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

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

pre-determined location within the private or controlled-access property.

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

20. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast 

weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the 

intended operation and to operate after that for at least 5 minutes or with the reserve 

power recommended by the manufacturer if greater.

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA). All 

operations shall be conducted in accordance with an ATO-issued COA. The 

exemption holder may apply for a new or amended COA if it intends to conduct 

operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the enclosed COA.
6

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial 

number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification 

(N−Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must 

be as large as practicable.

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and 

any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the 

PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. 

These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement 

official upon request.

24. The UA must remain clear and give way to all manned aviation operations and 

activities at all times. 

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

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

persons, 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 in a manner ensuring the safety 

of nonparticipating persons; and

b. The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission 

for operating closer to those objects and the PIC has made a safety assessment of 

the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not 

present an undue hazard.

The PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons are not considered 

nonparticipating persons under this exemption.

27. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property with 

permission from the property owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

28. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries of the operational area as 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.
7

If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and 

television filming and production, the following additional conditions and limitations apply.

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) 

as documented in this grant of exemption.

30. At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this 

exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight Standards 

District Office (FSDO) with jurisdiction over the area of proposed filming. The 3-day 

notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan of activities 

must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights;

b. Name and phone number of the operator for the UAS aerial filming conducted 

under this grant of exemption;

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

the UAS;

d. Make, model, and serial or N−Number of UAS to be used;

e. Name and certificate number of UAS PICs involved in the aerial filming;

f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property owners 

and/or local officials to conduct the filming production event; the list of those 

who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request;

g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and

h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area, city, 

town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the altitudes 

essential to accomplish the operation.

31. Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating persons 

consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, as specified in the 

exemption holder’s MPTOM.

Unless otherwise specified in this grant of exemption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS 

operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, 

parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.
8

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

Sincerely,

/s/

John S. Duncan

Director, Flight Standards Service

Enclosures
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL

AVIATION ADMINISTRATION WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: Dering Harbor, LLC FOR

AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF THE

CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS 61.101(e)(4) & (5), 61.113(a) & (b), 61.23(a), 61.315(a), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a)

& (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF THE AIRCRAFT UNMANNED

AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION

AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on June 9, 2015

Hally E. Dinkel / Dering Harbor LLC

DBA Aerial Hamptons

183 North Ferry Road

Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965

Tel: (516)297-0482

Email: hed@aerialhamptons.com
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 DERING HARBOR LLC

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

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF DERING HARBOR LLC SEEKS AND THE REASON

DERING HARBOR LLC SEEKS THE RELIEF................12

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING DERING HARBOR LLC’S REQUEST WOULD BE

IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ..................................... 17

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT ADVERSELY

AFFECT SAFETY ......................................................................... 20

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER. .... 34

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO

SUPPORT DERING HARBOR LLC’S REQUEST.... .............34

CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................................ 34
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
SUMMARY

Hally E. Dinkel seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.315(a), 61.23(a), 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 Dering Harbor LLC

DBA Aerial Hamptons to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose

of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, building inspections, agricultural

lands, outdoor recreational facilities, real estate, special events, and landscapes within the United

States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Dering Harbor LLC will provide its clients with the highest quality digital content for use in

their commercial, personal, and non-profit multimedia projects. Dering Harbor LLC will bring

together marketing expertise, artistic direction and state-of-the- art technology to make studio

quality productions within reach for any business, but will seek to predominately partner with other

small businesses. The objective of Dering Harbor LLC aerial video and photography operations is to

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

residential uses, specifically targeting:

• Aerial event filming and photography

• Feature film and Documentary cinematography

• Promotional videos for businesses, non-profits & government entities

• Agricultural surveys

• Land surveys with 3D mapping technology
BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: THE AIRCRAFT UAS & DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus

Dering Harbor LLC seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or hire

within the NAS. The DJI S900 and DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus (S900 and P2V+ respectfully and

referred to here on as “THE AIRCRAFT” together) are vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL)

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

phone systems. The S900 and P2V+ are electric powered rotary wing UAS that are capable of

transmitting live airborne video images and location information to a Ground Control Station (GCS). The S900 and P2V+ store the photographs and data on board and make them available for download

after completion of the flight. The S900 is 36 in diameter x 20 in height and weighs 6.8 pounds and

the P2V+ is 14 in x 14 in x 12 in and weighs 3.2 pounds, well under the 55 lbs mandated in the

FMRA. The S900 can conduct hovering flight and has a maximum cruising speed of 30 knots. It is

battery powered, has a flight endurance of 18 minutes and can operate in temperatures ranging from - 10° to 40° C. The S900’s omni-directional antenna has a range of 1.5 km and operates in the 2.420 –

2.483 GHz frequency range. The P2V+ can conduct hovering flight and has a maximum cruising

speed of 28 knots. It is battery powered, has a flight endurance of 20 minutes and can operate in

temperatures ranging from -10° to 40° C. The P2V+ omni-directional antenna has a range of 1500 ft

and operates in the 5.728 GHz-5.85 GHz frequency range. The Aircraft that will be operated by Dering Harbor LLC 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, Dering Harbor LLC, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations

(14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby petitions the Administrator to

commercially operate the THE AIRCRAFT in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an

exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.315(a), 61.23(a), 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

Aircraft and their operation, Dering Harbor’s operation of the THE AIRCRAFT 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, Dering Harbor LLC requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for

maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. Dering Harbor LLC submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of

safety will be ensured. Dering Harbor LLC will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform

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

practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and THE

AIRCRAFT Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Dering Harbor, LLC will document and maintain all

maintenance records for the THE AIRCRAFT UAS. Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.101(e)(4) and (5) entitled Recreational pilot

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, and from Section 61.315(a) entitled What are the

privileges and limits of my sport pilot certificate, and from Section 61.23(a) entitled Medical

certificates: Requirements and duration, is requested by Dering Harbor LLC to the extent necessary
to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a sport pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a valid

driver’s license, and who has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and currency

requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS in a manner consistent

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

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Dering Harbor LLC seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the THE AIRCRAFT UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with

14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Dering Harbor LLC submits that it will ensure that the THE

AIRCRAFT 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 THE

AIRCRAFT Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. Dering Harbor LLC also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled

Altimeter Settings, as the THE AIRCRAFT UA will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the THE AIRCRAFT UA 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 Dering Harbor LLC’s operation of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Additionally, Dering Harbor LLC seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section

91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. Dering Harbor LLC submits that

safety will not be affected by operation of the THE AIRCRAFT UA during daylight hours in visual

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

for a total duration of 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, Dering Harbor LLC provides the following

information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner. The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is:

Hally E. Dinkel

Dering Harbor LLC

183 North Ferry Road

Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965

Tel: (516)297-0482

Email: hed@aerialhamptons.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which Dering Harbor LLC Seeks

Exemption. 1. Dering Harbor LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.101(e)(4)

and (5).Section 61.101, entitled Recreational pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in

command, subsection (e)(4) and (5) prescribe the following, in relevant part:

(e) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (i) of this section, a recreational pilot may not

act as pilot in command of an aircraft-

(4) For compensation or hire;

(5) In furtherance of a business;

2. Dering Harbor LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.23(a). Section 61.23(a), entitled Operations requiring a medical certificate: Requirements

and duration, subsection (a) prescribe the following, in relevant part:

(f) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (i) of this section, a recreational pilot may not act

as pilot in command of an aircraft-
3. Dering Harbor LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.315(a). Section 61.315(a), entitled What are the privileges and limits of my sport pilot

certificate, subsection (a) prescribe the following, in relevant part:

(c) You may not act as pilot in command of a light-sport aircraft:

(2) For compensation or hire.

(3) In furtherance of a business.-

4. Dering Harbor LLC 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.

5. Dering Harbor LLC 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 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.
6. Dering Harbor LLC 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. 7. Dering Harbor LLC 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[.]

8. Dering Harbor LLC 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[.]

9. Dering Harbor LLC 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. 10. Dering Harbor LLC 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 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

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, a nd

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. C. The Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor LLC

Seeks The Relief. 1. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor

LLC 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, Dering Harbor LLC submits that an equivalent level of safety

will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS UA unless
that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to

safely operate either the THE AIRCRAFT 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, Dering Harbor LLC submits that all flights of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Dering Harbor

LLC business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

2. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor

LLC Seeks Relief From Section 61.23(a). Relief from Section 61.23(a), entitled Operations requiring a medical certificate:

Requirements and duration, is requested to the extent required to necessary to allow a PIC holding a

sport pilot certificate or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid driver’s license, to

conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire.

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.23(a) otherwise require the

PIC of any flight for compensation or hire to hold a comprehensive FAA issued medical certificate.

In Exemption No. 11213 to Aeryon Labs, Inc., the FAA “finds that, because of the risk mitigations

established in the conditions and limitations of this exemption, a person that holds a U.S. issued

driver’s license who is operating a UAS will not adversely affect safety. The FAA is granting relief

from § 61.23(a) to allow any pilot that holds one of the pilot’s certificates discussed above to operate

a UAS under this exemption with a U.S. issued driver’s license, in lieu of an FAA-issued medical

certificate. The FAA is also granting relief from § 61.23(c) to allow sport pilot certificate holders to

operate aircraft other than LSA with a U.S. issued driver’s license under this exemption.”
3. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor LLC

Seeks Relief From Section 61.315(a). Relief from Section 61.315(a) entitled What are the privileges and limits of my sport pilot

certificate, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a sport pilot or higher level

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

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.315(a) restrict a sport pilot

from acting as the PIC of any flight for compensation or hire, or for the furtherance of any business.

In Exemption No. 11213 to Aeryon Labs, Inc., the FAA re-assessed the level of pilot

certificate that would be appropriate for the petitioner’s operations. In evaluating this petition, similar

to the evaluation of the private and commercial pilot certificates in Exemption No. 11062, the agency

compared the aeronautical knowledge requirements of the recreational and sport pilot certificates to

those of the private pilot certificate. They found that the aeronautical knowledge requirements that

would be applicable to a UAS operation for a recreational pilot and sport pilot certificate are

substantially similar as those for a private pilot certificate. Additionally, similar to the private and commercial pilot certificates, holders of recreational

and sport pilot certificates are subject to security screening by the Department of Homeland Security

(DHS).

Therefore, because they must demonstrate aeronautical knowledge relevant to UAS

operations and are subject to DHS screening, factors that were considered by the FAA in allowing

private pilot operations under previous exemptions, the FAA now determines that holders of

recreational and sport pilot certificates may serve as the PIC for UAS operations.
4. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor

LLC 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 Dering Harbor LLC to determine that the THE AIRCRAFT UAS are in airworthy

condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating

documents (i.e., the THE AIRCRAFT Maintenance Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and THE

AIRCRAFT Instruction Manual).

Dering Harbor LLC seeks the requested relief because the THE AIRCRAFT UAS do not

require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Dering Harbor LLC will ensure that the THE AIRCRAFT UAS are in airworthy condition based

upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and THE

AIRCRAFT 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. 5. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor LLC

Seeks Relief From Section 91.121. Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight

operations of the THE AIRCRAFT 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), Dering Harbor LLC seeks the requested relief because the THE AIRCRAFT 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

THE AIRCRAFT 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. 6. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Dering Harbor LLC 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 THE AIRCRAFT UAs 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. Dering Harbor LLC seeks the requested relief because without

an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered THE AIRCRAFT

UA will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that

Dering Harbor LLC proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS,

the THE AIRCRAFT operating documents, and Dering Harbor LLC’s proposed operating

limitations, ensure that Dering Harbor LLC will safely operate the battery powered THE AIRCRAFT

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 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.
7. Extent Of Relief Dering Harbor LLC Seeks And The Reason Dering Harbor LLC

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, Dering Harbor LLC requests relief from these Sections

because the THE AIRCRAFT UAS does not require airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully

below, the THE AIRCRAFT UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without

an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Dering Harbor LLC will use trained technicians to

perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods,

techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the THE AIRCRAFT

Maintenance Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and THE AIRCRAFT Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Dering Ha rbor LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for the

THE AIRCRAFT UAS. D. The Reasons Why Granting Dering Harbor LLC 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 Dering Harbor LLC

to safely, efficiently, and economically conduct aerial video and photography of construction sites, building inspections, agricultural lands, wineries, outdoor recreational facilities, real estate, special

events, and landscapes over certain areas of the United States. Additionally, use of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS,

reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of Dering

Harbor LLC’s proposed operation of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS will be realized without

implicating any privacy issues.
1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS. The THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT

UAS 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 THE AIRCRAFT

UAS. Conducting aerial acquisitions with the THE AIRCRAFT UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated

during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and

electric motors, the THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT UAS, while reducing the carbon

footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UASs are propelled by battery
powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine. By using the THE AIRCRAFT

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 THE AIRCRAFT UAS (weighing approximately 1 1 pounds maximum gross weights with

diameter of 36 inches for the S900 and approximately 3.2 pounds and a length of 14 inches &

width of 14 inches for the P2V+, 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 The THE AIRCRAFT UAS

Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the THE AIRCRAFT is also an economical alternative

to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the THE

AIRCRAFT UAS will allow United States based companies, like Dering Harbor LLC, to remain

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

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

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

remain competitive. Operating the battery powered THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT UAS, companies such as Dering Harbor LLC, can remain

competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of

U.S. companies, through commercial use of the THE AIRCRAFT 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, Dering Harbor LLC proposed operation of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS will not implicate any

privacy issues. Specifically, the THE AIRCRAFT UAS will be operated only in compliance with

the conditions set forth in any exemption granted under this petition. 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 Dering Harbor LLC Seeks Exemption. 1. Reasons Why The THE AIRCRAFT 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, Dering Harbor LLC

operation of the THE AIRCRAFT 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

(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, Dering Harbor LLC submits that the THE AIRCRAFT

UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by:

(a) the characteristics of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement;

and

(c) the specific operating limitations. a. The Specifications Of The THE AIRCRAFT UAS Demonstrate Its

Safe

Characteristics. The THE AIRCRAFT UAS does not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise

pose athreat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability.

i. Technical Specifications Of The THE AIRCRAFT UAS. The technical specifications of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS are set forth by the DJI S900 and

DJI PV2+

ii. The THE AIRCRAFT UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The

UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area. The THE AIRCRAFT UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight

modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the THE AIRCRAFT

UAS is provided in the THE AIRCRAFT User Manual
iii. The THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT UA will remain stationary, in flight,

for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the THE AIRCRAFT UA does not reacquire control link

data from the GCS, the UA will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UA 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 THE AIRCRAFT UAS are set

forth in the THE AIRCRAFT User Manual.

iv. The THE AIRCRAFT GCS And Its Operation. A complete description of the operation and specifications of the THE AIRCRAFT GCS and

flight control software is provided in the THE AIRCRAFT User Manual. THE AIRCRAFT User

Manual.b. Flight Operations Of THE AIRCRAFT UAS Are Limited To The Line Of Sight

Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.

Dering Harbor LLC will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid airman

medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS. Additionally, a

safety observer will assist all pilots during flight time. c. Flights Of THE AIRCRAFT UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating

Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, proposes to commercially operate THE AIRCRAFT UAS for

the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United

States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations:

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

described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs weighing less than 55 pounds

maximum gross weight: THE AIRCRAFT Unmanned Aircraft System. 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 vision 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 revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator

upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for

extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update or

revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then

the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration

Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating

documents. 10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is

prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found

to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the 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. §

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. §

19.1. 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 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. 2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would

Not Adversely Affect Safety. Dering Harbor LLC 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

THE AIRCRAFT UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour

and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS

in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers

and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Considering De rin g H arb or LLC proposed area of operations, and the operating

limitations set forth-above; the parallel nature of sport pilot aeronautical knowledge

requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and

the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS, Dering

Harbor LLC submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially

certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Dering Harbor

LLC 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). Dering Harbor LLC will not allow any PIC to operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS unless that

PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements or the THE AIRCRAFT UAS

training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS
in a manner consistent with this exemption, 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 Dering Harbor LLC 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.
Accordingly, Dering Harbor LLC will ensure safe operations by not allowing any

PIC to operate the THE AIRCRAFT UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting

minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the

THE AIRCRAFT 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, Dering Harbor LLC will ensure that the THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment

and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UAS to the GCS for

active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with Dering

Harbor LLC’s operation of the THE AIRCRAFT 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 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 THE AIRCRAFT UAs; (2) the

limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Dering Harbor LLC will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered THE

AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT 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 THE AIRCRAFT 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 30%

remaining battery power, and again at approximately 20% and then 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the THE AIRCRAFT 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, Dering Harbor LLC 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 Dering

Harbor LLC 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 THE AIRCRAFT Maintenance Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and THE

AIRCRAFT Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Dering Harbor LLC will document and maintain all

maintenance records for the THE AIRCRAFT UAS. Since the THE AIRCRAFT UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating

documents, Dering Harbor LLC will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by

Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Dering Harbor

LLC 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 THE
AIRCRAFT 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 Dering Harbor LLC proposed operating limitations, the operating

documents, and the technical aspects of the THE AIRCRAFT UAS, Dering Harbor LLC 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 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, Dering Harbor LLC requests that the FAA

prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the THE AIRCRAFT 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 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 THE AIRCRAFT 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 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 Dering Harbor LLC’s intended operation of the THE AIRCRAFT

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 Dering Harbor LLC Seeks Exemption:

Dering Harbor LLC seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections

61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.315(a), 61.23(a), 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 Dering Harbor LLC Seeks:

This exemption will permit Dering Harbor LLC 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 Dering Harbor

LLC 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, Dering Harbor LLC 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, Dering Harbor LLC will operate the THE AIRCRAFT UASs

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, Dering Harbor LLC 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 THE AIRCRAFT 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 Dering Harbor LLC to safely, efficiently, and economically operate

the THE AIRCRAFT UAS commercially within the NAS. WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Dering Harbor LLC respectfully requests that

the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections
61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.315(a), 61.23(a), 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 Dering Harbor LLC to operate the DJI S900

and DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and

photography over areas of the United States. Respectfully submitted, Hally E. Dinkel

Dering Harbor, LLC

P.O. Box 3004

183 North Ferry Road

Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965

Tel: (516)297-0482

Email: hed@aerialhamptons.com