UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No. _______________

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

ANDREW RICARD

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 BLADE 350 QX3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on June 4th, 2015 

Andrew Ricard

2045 Clubview Dr.

Highland, MI 48356

(248) 892-2639

andrew.m.ricard@gmail.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 

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

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

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

BACKGROUND....................................................................................................................4 

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

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER.........................................................................6

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH ANDREW RICARD 

SEEKS EXEMPTION................................................................................................6

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF ANDREW RICARD SEEKS AND THE REASON 

ANDREW RICARD SEEKS THE RELIEF.........................................................10

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING ANDREW RICARD’S REQUEST WOULD 

BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST .........................................................................12

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT 

ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY..........................................................................14

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER..................27

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO 

SUPPORT ANDREW RICARD’S REQUEST.....................................................28

CONCLUSION....................................................................................................................28

APPENDICES........................................................................................29
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

ANDREW RICARD 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 

ANDREW RICARD to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial 

purpose of conducting aerial photography, aerial videography and cinematography, aerial 

filming and photography for real estate, aerial mapping, and aerial photography and 

videography for special events to include but not limited to weddings, private or public 

parties/events, business advertisement(s), promotional events, environmental studies, and 

sports events.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

ANDREW RICARD provides his clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced 

technologies and solutions to increase efficiency, productivity and effectiveness. 

ANDREW RICARD has hundreds of hours flying experience. The objective of ANDREW 

RICARD and his aerial operations is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of 

commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting:

• Construction sites before and after

• Appraisals

• Real-estate marketing

• Motion Picture Filming

• Aerial acquisitions used for inspections of public and private 

structures.

• Search and Rescue operations

• Business advertisement

• Promotional events

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Blade 350 QX3 AP Combo

ANDREW RICARD seeks an exemption to operate a Blade 350 QX3 AP Combo system

for compensation or hire within the NAS. The Blade 350 QX3 is vertical takeoff and 

landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing 

electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The Blade 350 QX3 has a maximum gross weight 

of approximately 2 pounds 2 ounces, while having a length of 18.3 inches width of 8.3 

inches, height of 7.48 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 34 knots. The Blade 

350 QX3 UA is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery 

powered electric motors. 
The Blade 350 QX3 UAS that will be operated by ANDREW RICARD 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, ANDREW RICARD, 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 Blade 350 QX3 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, ANDREW RICARD operation of Blade 350 QX3 

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, ANDREW RICARD 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. 

ANDREW RICARD submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of 

safety will be ensured. ANDREW RICARD 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 Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, ANDREW 

RICARD will document and maintain all maintenance records for the Blade 350 QX3 

UAS. 

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

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by ANDREW RICARD 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 

Blade 350 QX3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and 

emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, 

vehicles and structures. 

ANDREW RICARD seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft 

airworthiness, because the Blade 350 QX3 UAS does not require an airworthiness 

certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, ANDREW RICARD 

submits that he will ensure that the Blade 350 QX3 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior 

to every flight, by determining that the UAS is in compliance with the operating 
documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual), and 

that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. 

ANDREW RICARD also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, 

entitled Altimeter Settings, as the Blade 350 QX3 UA will not have a typical barometric 

altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the Blade 350 QX3 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 ANDREW 

RICARD’s operation of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 

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

Additionally, ANDREW RICARD seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 

91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. ANDREW RICARD 

submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the Blade 350 QX3 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 10 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, ANDREW RICARD 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:

ANDREW RICARD

2045 Clubview Dr.

Highland, MI 48356

(248) 892-2639

andrew.m.ricard@gmail.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which ANDREW RICARD Seeks 

Exemption. 

1. ANDREW RICARD 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. ANDREW RICARD 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. ANDREW RICARD Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Section 91.121. 

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

part: 

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or 

flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that 

is set, when operating--

(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to--

(i) The current reported 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. ANDREW RICARD 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. ANDREW RICARD Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of 

Section 91.405(a).

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: 

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

(a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and 

shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this 

section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.] 

6. ANDREW RICARD 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. ANDREW RICARD 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. ANDREW RICARD Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of 

Sections 91.417(a) And 91.417(b). 
Section 91.417, entitled Maintenance records, subsections (a) and (b), state the 

following: 

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each 

registered owner or operator shall keep the following records for the periods 

specified in paragraph (b) of this section: 

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

records of the 100-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved 

inspections, as appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and 

each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must 

include--

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

the 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, 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. 

C. The Extent Of Relief ANDREW RICARD Seeks And The Reason ANDREW 

RICARD Seeks The Relief. 

1. Extent Of Relief ANDREW RICARD Seeks And The Reason ANDREW 

RICARD 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, ANDREW RICARD submits that an equivalent level of 

safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the Blade 350 QX3 

UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, demonstrating 

that the PIC is able to safely operate the Blade 350 QX3 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, ANDREW RICARD submits that all flights of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS, 

conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to 

ANDREW RICARD’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire. 

2. Extent Of Relief ANDREW RICARD Seeks And The Reason ANDREW 

RICARD 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 ANDREW RICARD to determine that the Blade 350 QX3 UAS is in 

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

the operating documents (i.e., the ANDREW RICARD Aerial Operations Manual, 

Monthly Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual). 

ANDREW RICARD seeks the requested relief because the Blade 350 QX3 UAS do not 

require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

Therefore, ANDREW RICARD will ensure that the Blade 350 QX3 UAS is in airworthy 

condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly 

Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 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 ANDREW RICARD Seeks And The Reason ANDREW 

RICARD Seeks Relief From Section 91.121. 

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

operations of the Blade 350 QX3 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), ANDREW RICARD seeks the requested 

relief because the Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 limits (geo-fences) will also be preset and 

established prior to each flight.

4. Extent Of Relief ANDREW RICARD Seeks And The Reason ANDREW 

RICARD 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 Blade 350 QX3 UA 

during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules 

(VFR), for a total duration of 10 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, 

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

RICARD seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), 
the flight time duration of the battery powered Blade 350 QX3 UA will severely constrain 

the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that ANDREW RICARD 

proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. 

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS, 

the Blade 350 QX3 operating documents, and ANDREW RICARD’s proposed operating 

limitations, ensure that ANDREW RICARD will safely operate the battery powered Blade 

350 QX3 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 10 

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 ANDREW RICARD Seeks And The Reason ANDREW 

RICARD 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, ANDREW RICARD requests relief from 

these Sections because the Blade 350 QX3 UAS does not require an airworthiness 

certificate. As set forth more fully below, Blade 350 QX3 UAS meets the conditions of 

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

ANDREW RICARD 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 ANDREW RICARD Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, ANDREW RICARD will document and maintain all maintenance records for 

the Blade 350 QX3 UAS. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting ANDREW RICARD’S 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 ANDREW 

RICARD to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial photography, aerial 

videography and cinematography, aerial filming and photography for real estate, aerial 

mapping, and aerial photography and videography for special events to include but not 

limited to weddings, private or public parties/events, business advertisement(s), 

promotional events, environmental studies, and sports events over certain areas of the 

United States..

Additionally, use of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce 

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

ANDREW RICARD’s proposed operation of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS will be realized 

without implicating any privacy issues. 
1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS. 

The Blade 350 QX3 UA is battery powered and serves as a safe, efficient, and economical 

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

reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an 

exemption allowing the use of a Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 

QX3 UA does 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 Blade 350 QX3

UAS. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the Blade 350 QX3 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, Blade 350 QX3 UAS produces 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 

QX3 UA (weighing approximately 2 pounds 2 ounces at its maximum gross weights with 

lengths of 18.3 inches, widths of 18.3 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 The Blade 350 QX3

UAS Will Benefit The Economy. 
In addition to being safe and efficient, the Blade 350 QX3 UAS is also an economical 

alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation 

of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS will allow United States based companies, like ANDREW 

RICARD, 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 QX3 UAS, companies such as ANDREW RICARD, 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 Blade 350 QX3

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, ANDREW RICARD’s proposed operation of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS will not 

implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the Blade 350 QX3 UAS will be operated only 

in compliance with operating documents (i.e., the ANDREW RICARD Aerial Operations 

Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual) which 

requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, and in 

accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude 

requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, 

Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That 

Provided By The Rule From Which ANDREW RICARD Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The Blade 350 QX3 UA Meets 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, ANDREW RICARD’s operation of the Blade 350 

QX3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an 

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 
Section 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, ANDREW RICARD submits that the Blade 350 QX3 UAS can 

operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the 

characteristics of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) 

the specific operating limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The Blade 350 QX3 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe 

Characteristics.
The Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 QX3 UAS. 

The technical specifications of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS are set forth by the Blade 350 

QX3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A.

ii. The Blade 350 QX3 UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation 

Modes Enable The UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational 

Area. 

The Blade 350 QX3 UAS may be operated in both manual and fully autonomous flight 

modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the Blade 350 QX3

UAS is provided at pages 9-12 of the Blade 350 QX3 User Manual, attached hereto as 

Appendix A. 

iii. The Blade 350 QX3 UAS Is 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 Blade 350 QX3 UA will remain stationary, in flight, for 

3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the Blade 350 QX3 UA do not reacquire control link 

data from the GCS, the UA will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UAs will 

return to the home position (i.e., Return to Home) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff 

position and shutdown. 

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS are set forth 

at pages 11-13 of the Blade 350 QX3 User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A. 

iv. The Blade 350 QX3 GCS And Its Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the Blade 350 QX3 GCS and 

flight control software is provided at pages 11-12 of the Blade 350 QX3 User Manual. The 

Blade 350 QX3 User Manual is attached hereto as Appendix A. 

b. Flight Operations Of The Blade 350 QX3 UAS Are Limited To The 

Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety 

Observer. 
ANDREW RICARD will be the only person to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of Blade 

350 QX3 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist him during flight time. 

c. Flights Of The Blade 350 QX3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To

Specific Operating Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, ANDREW RICARD proposes to commercially operate the 

Blade 350 QX3 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: Blade 350 QX3 AP

Combo 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. 

§ 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 

pre- determined location within the planned operating area and land or be 

recovered in accordance with the operating documents. 

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

emergencies in accordance with the operating documents. 

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

forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising 

speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power 

remaining. 

25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued 

Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any 

operations under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the 

operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in 

advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall 

be conducted in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA 

including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder 

requirements. 
26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by 

serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have 

identification (N- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45, 

Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for 

operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications 

Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency 

requirements. 

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be 

available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the 

UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the 

Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. 

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

operations and activities at all times. 

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

vehicle.

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all 

nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or 

essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: 

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect 

nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an 

accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain 

under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating 

persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight 

operations must cease immediately and/or; 

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the 

owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted 

permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of 
operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present 

an undue hazard, and; 

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons 

do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a). 

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

with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

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

vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA 

must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (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.

ANDREW RICARD 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 Blade 

350 QX3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour and 

currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the Blade 350 QX3 UAS in a 

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

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

Considering ANDREW RICARD’s 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 Blade 350 QX3 UAS, ANDREW 

RICARD submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially 

certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for ANDREW 

RICARD’s 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). 
ANDREW RICARD will not allow any PIC to operate the Blade 350 QX3 UAS unless 

that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements or the Blade 350 

QX3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the 

Blade 350 QX3 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 ANDREW RICARD’s 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, ANDREW RICARD will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to 

operate the Blade 350 QX3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum 

flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the Blade 350 

QX3 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, ANDREW RICARD will ensure that Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 ANDREW RICARD’s operation of the Blade 350 QX3 UA within visual 

line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 

91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard 

the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established 

by the UAS at ground level. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. 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 Blade 350 

QX3 UAS; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the 

proposed flight operations. Accordingly, ANDREW RICARD will ensure that it will safely 

operate the battery powered Blade 350 QX3 UA during daylight hours in VFR conditions, 

with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 10 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 

approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the Blade 

350 QX3 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, ANDREW RICARD 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 ANDREW RICARD will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, 

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

practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the ANDREW RICARD Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, ANDREW RICARD will document and maintain all maintenance records for 

the Blade 350 QX3 UAS. 

Since the Blade 350 QX3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, 

ANDREW RICARD 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 Blade 350 QX3 User Manual is

attached hereto as Appendix A; a copy of the Blade 350 QX3 UAS Maintenance LOG is 

attached hereto as Appendix B. 

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

RICARD 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 

Blade 350 QX3 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 ANDREW RICARD’s proposed operating limitations, the operating 

documents, and the technical aspects of the Blade 350 QX3 UASs, ANDREW RICARD

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, ANDREW RICARD requests 

that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the Blade 350 QX3

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 Blade 350 QX3 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 Ricard and Associates LLC’s intended operation of the 

Blade 350 QX3 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).

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

From Which ANDREW RICARD Seeks Exemption: 

ANDREW RICARD 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 ANDREW RICARD Seeks: 

This exemption will permit ANDREW RICARD to commercially operate an 

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

photography over certain areas of the United States.
Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support ANDREW 

RICARD’s 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, ANDREW RICARD’s 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, ANDREW RICARD will operate the Blade 350 QX3 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, ANDREW RICARD 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 Blade 350 QX3 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 ANDREW RICARD to 

safely, efficiently, and economically operate the Blade 350 QX3 UAS commercially within 

the NAS. 

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

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, ANDREW RICARD 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 Ricard and Associates LLC, to 

operate the Blade 350 QX3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video 

and photography over certain areas of the United States.

Dated: June 4th, 2015

APPENDIX A
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

®
EN 2

• Always keep a safe distance in all directions around your model to avoid collisions or injury. This model is controlled by a radio signal subject to interference 

from many sources outside your control. Interference can cause momentary 

loss of control.

• Always operate your model in open spaces away from full-size vehicles, traffi c 

and people.

• Always carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional 

support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery packs, etc.).

• Always keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the reach 

of children.

• Always avoid water exposure to all equipment not specifi cally designed and 

protected for this purpose. Moisture causes damage to electronics.

• Never place any portion of the model in your mouth as it could cause serious 

injury or even death.

• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.

• Always keep aircraft in sight and under control.

• Always move the throttle fully down at rotor strike.

• Always use fully charged batteries.

• Always keep transmitter powered on while aircraft is powered.

• Always remove batteries before disassembly

• Always keep moving parts clean.

• Always keep parts dry.

• Always let parts cool after use before touching.

• Always remove batteries after use.

• Never operate aircraft with damaged wiring.

• Never touch moving parts.

Age Recommendation: Not for children under 14 years. This is not a toy.

CAUTION: The ESCs for the 350 QX3 are not compatible with any other product, and the 350 QX3 is not compatible with any other ESCs. Use of any other 

ESCs on the 350 QX3 will cause a crash, which may result in property damage and/or personal injury.

WARNING AGAINST COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS: If you ever need to replace a Spektrum component found in a Horizon Hobby product, always purchase 

from Horizon Hobby, LLC or a Horizon Hobby authorized dealer to ensure authentic high-quality Spektrum product. Horizon Hobby, LLC disclaims all support and warranty with regards, but not limited to, compatibility and performance of counterfeit products or products claiming compatibility with DSM or Spektrum.

WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate the product 

correctly can result in damage to the product, personal property and cause serious injury. 

This is a sophisticated hobby product. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this 

Product in a safe and responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the product or other property. This product is not intended for use by children without 

direct adult supervision. Do not use with incompatible components or alter this product in any way outside of the instructions provided by Horizon Hobby, LLC. 

This manual contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual, prior to 

assembly, setup or use, in order to operate correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.

The following terms are used throughout the product literature to indicate various levels of potential harm when operating this product:

NOTICE: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create a possibility of physical property damage AND a little or no possibility of injury.

CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of physical property damage AND a possibility of serious injury.

WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury OR create a high probability of superfi cial injury.

NOTICE

All instructions, warranties and other collateral documents are subject to change at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby, LLC. For up-to-date product literature, 

visit horizonhobby.com and click on the support tab for this product. 

Meaning of Special Language

General Safety Precautions and Warnings 

Before operating this product, consult all applicable local and national regulations, as well as any accredited modeling associations in your area. In the US, airspace 

regulations are governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and applied in part by the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). You are responsible for both 

how and where you fl y your aircraft.

FAA Website: http://www.faa.gov/

AMA Website: http://www.modelaircraft.org/
3 EN

Table of Contents

Components

Airframe Blade® 350 QX3 Quadcopter

Motors 4x Brushless Outrunner Motor, 1100Kv

ESCs 4x 10-Amp Brushless ESC

Battery 3000mAh 3S 11.1V 20C Li-Po Battery

Charger 3S DC Li-Po Balancing Charger with 5A AC Power Supply

Transmitter SpektrumTM DX4 DSMX® 4-Channel Transmitter (RTF, AP Combo)

Camera/Gimbal CGO2 GB 1080p HD (AP Combo)

Specifi cations

Length 18.30 in (465mm)

Height 7.48 in (190mm)

Rotor Diameter 22.80 in (580mm)

Flying Weight 33.7 oz (955 g)

To register your product online, visit www.bladehelis.com

Box Contents ......................................................................................................4

Charging Warnings..............................................................................................4

Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC) .....................................................................................4

Charging the Flight Battery .................................................................................5

Install the Gimbal (AP Combo) .............................................................................5

Install the Transmitter Batteries (RTF, AP Combo) .................................................5

Transmitter Control Layout (RTF, AP Combo) ........................................................6

Extend the GPS Mast ..........................................................................................6

Install the Flight Battery ......................................................................................6

Transmitter Setup and Binding (BNF) ...................................................................7

Binding ...............................................................................................................8

Flight Mode Switch (RTF, AP Combo) ...................................................................9

Flight Modes Explained .......................................................................................9

LED Codes ........................................................................................................10

GPS Functionality ..............................................................................................10

Flight Guidelines and Warnings .........................................................................11

Preparing the 350 QX3 For Flight ......................................................................11

Flying the 350 QX3 ...........................................................................................11

Calibration Procedures ......................................................................................13

Graphic User Interface ......................................................................................14

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................14

Parts of the 350 QX3 .........................................................................................15

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
EN 4

Box Contents

Charging Warnings

WARNING: Failure to exercise caution while using this product and comply 

with the following warnings could result in product malfunction, electrical 

issues, excessive heat, FIRE, and ultimately injury and property damage.

• NEVER LEAVE THE POWER SUPPLY, CHARGER AND BATTERY UNATTENDED 

DURING USE.

• NEVER CHARGE BATTERIES OVERNIGHT.

• Never attempt to charge dead, damaged or wet battery packs.

• Never attempt to charge a battery pack containing different types of batteries.

• Never allow children under 14 years of age to charge battery packs.

• Never charge batteries in extremely hot or cold places or place in direct 

sunlight.

• Never charge a battery if the cable has been pinched or shorted.

• Never connect the charger if the power cable has been pinched or shorted.

• Never attempt to dismantle the charger or use a damaged charger.

• Never drop charger or batteries.

• Always use only rechargeable Li-Po batteries designed for use with this type 

of charger.

• Always inspect the battery before charging.

• Always keep the battery away from any material that could be affected by 

heat.

• Always monitor the charging area and have a fi re extinguisher available at all 

times.

• Always end the charging process if the battery becomes hot to the touch or 

starts to change form (swell) during the charge process.

• Always connect the charge cable to the charger fi rst, then connect the battery 

to avoid short circuit between the charge leads. Reverse the sequence when 

disconnecting.

• Always connect the positive red leads (+) and negative black leads (–) correctly.

• Always disconnect the battery after charging, and let the charger cool between 

charges.

• Always charge in a well-ventilated area.

• Always terminate all processes and contact Horizon Hobby if the product 

malfunctions.

Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC)

Low voltage cutoff (LVC) protects the Li-Po battery from over-discharge in fl ight 

and activates when the battery reaches a preset value. When the battery is 

discharged to the cutoff point, the aircraft will display rapidly fl ashing red, green 

and blue LEDs to warn you it’s time to land. When you see this LED code, land 

immediately to prevent over-discharge and damage to the battery.

When the LVC is activated, you have approximately 2 minutes until the battery is 

depleted and can no longer maintain a hover. Repeated fl ying to LVC will damage 

the battery.

NOTICE: Crash damage and battery damage are not covered under warranty. 

IMPORTANT: Always disconnect and remove the Li-Po battery from the aircraft 

after each fl ight. Charge your Li-Po battery to about half capacity before storage. 

During storage, make sure the battery charge does not fall below 3V per cell. 

A connected battery will result in trickle discharge.

• Blade 350 QX3

• CGO2 3-Axis Camera/Gimbal (AP Combo)

• 3000mAh 3S 11.1V 20C Li-Po Battery

• 3S DC Li-Po Balancing Charger with 5A AC Power Supply

• Spektrum DX4 DSMX

4-Channel Transmitter (RTF, AP Combo)

• 4 AA Batteries (RTF, AP Combo)

• Cell Phone Mount
5 EN

Charging the Flight Battery

Charger Specifi cations

• Input Voltage: 10.5–15V DC

• Charge Current: 3.5A

Charger LED Codes

Green Blinking: Power connected

Red Blinking: Charging

Red & Green Blinking: Cells balancing

Green Solid: Charging complete

Red Solid: Error

CAUTION: All instructions and warnings must 

be followed exactly. Mishandling of Li-Po 

batteries can result in a fi re, personal injury and/or 

property damage.

NOTICE: If using a battery other than the included 

Li-Po battery, refer to your battery manufacturer’s 

instructions for charging.

1a 1b

2 3

Install the Gimbal (AP Combo)

Install the Transmitter Batteries (RTF, AP Combo)

The Battery Charging Process

1. Connect the AC power supply to the charger.

2. Connect the AC power supply to an AC power source. 

The green LED blinks.

3. Connect the battery to the charger. The red LED 

blinks, indicating charging. When the battery nears 

full charge, the red and green LEDs blink, indicating 

cell balancing.

4. Disconnect the battery when the green LED glows 

solid.

• Slide the gimbal on the mount rails until it locks.

• Connect the wiring harness to the plug on the bottom 

of the 350 QX3.

• To remove the gimbal, press the tab at the front of 

the mount and slide the gimbal forward.

• Install 4 AA batteries in the transmitter as shown.

b

a

AP C b )
EN 6

Install the Flight Battery

Transmitter Control Layout (RTF, AP Combo)

Mode Switch

0 - Smart Mode

1 - AP Mode

2 - Return Home

Gimbal 

control 

switch

Aileron/Roll

Motor Stop/Bind Button

Elevator/Pitch

Rudder/Yaw

Throttle/Altitude

Power Switch

Extend the GPS Mast

a

b d

c
7 EN

Transmitter Setup (BNF)

Transmitter Model 

Type

Switch Select Reversing Throttle Cut Model Setup Switch Position

DX6i

acro n/a gear - R

All others - N

act Travel Adj: Flap ↑ 120 ↓ 100 

Throttle Subtrim: ↑ 10

Fl aps: FLAP

Norm ↑ 100

land ↓ 100 

Mi x 1:

gear → gear act

rate: D –60%, U 0%

SW: ele d/r

Smart Mode = F Mode ( POS. 0)

Return Home = F Mode (POS. 1)

AP MODE = ELE D/R (POS 1)

GI MBAL control = FLAP (POS 1),

Throttle controls gimbal angle

Ac celerometer calibration = Set FLAP to POS 0 and cycle 

Flight Mode switch 4 times

Co mpass calibration = Set FLAP to POS 10 and cycle 

Flight Mode switch 4 times

DX6

airplane Ch annel Assign:

Channel Input 

Confi g (2nd page):

Gear: B

AUX1: A

S ervo setup:

AUX1 - R

All others - N

Th rottle cut:

Position: 

–130%

Switch: Switch i

Se rvo setup:

Travel:

120%

140%

AX1

Smart Mode = Switch B ( POS. 0)

AP MODE = Switch B (POS 1)

Return Home = Switch B (POS. 2)

GI MBAL Control = Switch A (POS 1),

Throttle controls gimbal angle

Co mpass calibration = Switch A (POS 1) and

cycle B switch 4 times 

Ac celerometer calibration = Switch A (POS 0) and

cycle B switch 4 times

DX7s

airplane Knob: AUX2

Gear: AUX1

Flap: Gear

Se rvo setup:

All NORM

Th rottle cut:

0% Trainer

Se rvo setup:

Travel:

Aux1 120% 140%

Smart Mode = Flap switch ( POS. 0)

AP MODE = FLap switch (POS 1)

Return Home = Flap switch (POS. 2)

GI MBAL Control = Gear switch (POS 0),

Knob controls gimbal angle

Co mpass calibration = Gear switch (POS 0) and

cycle FLAP switch 4 times

Ac celerometer calibration = Gear switch (POS 1) and 

cycle FLAP switch 4 times

DX8

airplane Gear: AUX1

Knob: AUX2

F Mode: Gear 

Se rvo setup:

All NORM

Th rottle cut:

0% Trainer

Se rvo setup:

Travel:

Aux1 120% 140%

Smart Mode = F Mode switch ( POS. 0)

AP MODE = F Mode switch (POS 1)

Return Home = F Mode switch (POS. 2)

GI MBAL Control = Gear switch (POS 0),

Knob controls gimbal angle

Co mpass calibration = Gear switch (POS 0) and

cycle FLAP switch 4 times 

Ac celerometer calibration = Gear switch (POS 1) and 

cycle FLAP switch 4 times 

DX9/DX18

airplane Ch annel Assign:

Channel Input

Co nfi g (2nd page):

Gear: B

AUX1: A

AUX2: R Knob

Se rvo setup:

All NORM

Th rottle cut:

Position: 

–130%

Switch: Switch i

Se rvo setup:

Tr avel:

140%

120%

AX1

Smart Mode = Switch B ( POS. 0)

AP MODE = Switch B (POS 1)

Return Home = Switch B (POS. 2)

GI MBAL Control = A switch (POS 0),

Knob controls gimbal angle

Co mpass calibration = A switch (POS 0) and

cycle B switch 4 times 

Ac celerometer calibration = Gear switch (POS 1) and 

cycle B switch 4 times 
EN 8

Binding

The RTF/AP combo transmitter is bound to the model 

at the factory. If for any reason the model needs to be 

re-bound, follow the directions below.

Normal Bind

Roll left

Roll right

Bind with GPS enabled

Bind with GPS disabled

Bind button

Transmitter Bind Codes

Entering Bind Mode

Binding the 350 QX3 To Your Transmitter

1. With the transmitter and quadcopter powered OFF, 

connect the battery to the 350 QX3.

2. Place the 350 QX3 on a fl at level surface.

3. Power the 350 QX3 ON and let it initialize. The 

status LED will remain off.

4. Hold the 350 QX3 upside down until the status LED 

fl ashes blue, indicating it has entered bind mode.

5. Set the quadcopter back upright.

6. On your transmitter, ensure the throttle is in the low 

position and the throttle trim is at neutral.

7. Power ON your transmitter in bind mode according 

to the instructions included with your transmitter.

8. When the binding process is successful, the

350 QX3 will emit a quick, 3-beep tone and the LED 

will fl ash either green, purple or red, depending on 

which fl ight mode is selected.

If the LED is fl ashing red, the 350 QX3 is in Return 

Home mode. Switch to Smart or AP Mode (green 

or purple fl ashing) before attempting to start the 

motors.

9. Place the quadcopter outdoors in the desired

starting position in preparation for fl ight.
9 EN

Flight Modes Explained

Smart Mode

This fl ight mode is intended for 

the beginner pilot. For best results while using Smart Mode,

it is recommended the pilot 

always turn to face the

350 QX3 while fl ying. 

• Stick Relativity– While in 

Smart Mode, the path of the aircraft will always 

follow the control stick input direction relative to the 

pilot location, regardless of the direction the nose of 

the aircraft is pointing. 

• SAFE CircleTM feature– In most scenarios, the quad 

will not enter the SAFE Circle. 

• Position Hold– The aircraft will hold its position when 

elevator and aileron inputs are at neutral.

• Self-Leveling– Brings the 350 QX3 to a level attitude 

when the elevator and aileron inputs are at neutral.

• 100 m geo-fence– The 350 QX3 uses GPS information to create a virtual barrier and will not travel

farther than 100 meters from the home position.

AP Mode

This fl ight mode keeps the

350 QX3 in a steady hover

and locked into position while 

the controls are held at neutral, 

making it deal for image/video 

capture. 

• Control Input– While in AP Mode, the 350 QX3

follows the control stick input direction relative to the 

position and orientation of the aircraft rather than the 

position of the pilot.

• Position Hold– The aircraft will hold its position when 

elevator and aileron inputs are at neutral.

• Self-Leveling– Brings the 350 QX2 AP to a level 

attitude when the elevator and aileron inputs are at 

neutral.

• 100 m geo-fence– The 350 QX3 uses GPS information to create a virtual barrier and will not travel

farther than 100 meters from the home position.

Smart Mode Stick Relativity Control Inputs

Flight Mode Switch (RTF, AP Combo)

Smart Mode

(Solid Green LED on the 350 QX3)

AP Mode

(Solid Purple LED on the 350 QX3)

Return Home

(Red fl ashing LED on the 350 QX3)

AP Mode Control Inputs

NOTICE: If the 350 QX3 loses GPS signal while fl ying in either Smart or AP Mode, the LED will fl ash either green or purple, depending on which fl ight mode you are 

currently using, and the 350 QX3 will default to a stable fl ight mode with similar control response as AP Mode without the availability of position hold. Return Home 

will not function. Please familiarize yourself with the controls in AP Mode to ensure a safe return of the 350 QX3 in the event of GPS signal loss.

Pilot location

Right transmitter stick

Right transmitter stick

Stick commands move the 350 QX3 

relative to the pilot location

Stick commands move the 350 QX3 

relative to the quadcopter’s orientation

Front

=

=

Away from the pilot

Toward 

the pilot

Solid Green LED

Solid Purple LED
EN 10

LED Codes

Startup Codes

Flying Codes

Radio off or not bound to the quad .......................................

Initialization failed ................................................................

IMU initialization ..................................................................

Fully charged battery ...........................................................

Fully discharged battery .......................................................

Emergency mode (cycle power to reinitialize) .......................

Bind mode ...........................................................................

GPS Disabled .......................................................................

Smart Mode, waiting for GPS ...............................................

Smart Mode, GPS lock .........................................................

AP Mode, waiting for GPS.....................................................

AP Mode, GPS lock ...............................................................

Return to home mode activated ...........................................

GPS lost while in Smart mode (in fl ight)................................

GPS lost while in AP mode or return to home (in fl ight) .........

Battery voltage below 10.9V ................................................

Battery voltage below 10.6V ................................................

Compass calibration needed ................................................

CAUTION: If you see the LED signal for low 

battery (10.6V), immediately land your aircraft 

and recharge the battery.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to use Return Home 

with a low battery.

No LED

GPS Functionality

To acquire a reliable GPS signal, it is important the 350 QX3 has a clear view of 

the sky. Obstructions that can affect the aircraft’s ability to acquire an acceptable 

signal include:

• Flying close to or around tall/big buildings

• Flying under dense vegetation

• Flying indoors or under a structure

If you cannot acquire a GPS lock at startup, the motors cannot be started in either 

Smart Mode or AP Mode. You will have to re-bind the quadcopter with the GPS 

functions turned off to allow you to start the motors for fl ight (see the Binding 

section). It is not possible to use Smart Mode without having GPS enabled. If the 

350 QX3 is initialized with GPS disabled, it will default to AP Mode without position 

hold, but will still be capable of altitude hold. 

If you lose the GPS signal while fl ying, the aircraft will not have Stick Relativity, the 

SAFE CircleTM feature, Position Hold or Return Home functions available. We recommend maneuvering the 350 QX3 by steering with forward elevator and rudder only 

if GPS signal is lost.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to fl y the 350 QX3 with GPS enabled while 

indoors or in a location where the GPS signal is known to be poor, as loss 

of signal could result in a crash.

GPS Functions

(see the Binding section for turning GPS functions ON and OFF )

With GPS ON

• If the 350 QX3 took off with GPS lock and a home position set, when Return 

Home mode is activated the quadcopter will fl y back to the start position 

(maintaining altitude along the way), then reduce altitude to land.

• If the 350 QX3 loses GPS lock while fl ying in Smart, AP or Return Home

mode, the LED will fl ash green, purple or red, depending on which fl ight mode 

you are currently using. The 350 QX3 will default to a stable fl ight mode with 

similar control response to AP Mode without the availability of position hold.

• If the 350 QX3 deviates too far from its intended GPS path when in Return 

Home mode, it will descend using the barometric pressure sensor to maintain 

the descent rate.

• Once the 350 QX3 has landed in Return Home mode, it will stop the motors.

With GPS OFF

• The LED will show solid white.

• The fl ight mode available will be similar in control response to AP Mode

without the availability of position hold.

• Altitude hold will function normally.

Loss of GPS Signal

If the 350 QX3 loses GPS signal in fl ight, it will respond according to the

following conditions:

Smart Mode: (Green fl ashing LED)

If the 350 QX3 loses GPS signal in fl ight while in Smart Mode the LED will 

fl ash green. The stick relativity feature of Smart Mode will not function. The 

350 QX3 will follow the control stick input direction relative to the position and 

orientation of the aircraft rather than the position of the pilot, similar to the 

control response in AP Mode. Return home will not function. The aircraft will 

still use the pressure sensor to maintain altitude and control rate of descent.

If GPS signal is reacquired, after receiving 5–10 seconds of reliable GPS 

signal, the Smart Mode functions return.

AP Mode: (Purple fl ashing LED)

If the 350 QX3 loses GPS signal in fl ight while in AP Mode the LED will fl ash 

purple. The quadcopter will not enter GPS position hold when the right stick is 

returned to center. Return home will not function. If GPS signal is reacquired 

after receiving 5-10 seconds of reliable signal, AP Mode functions return.

Loss of Transmitter Signal

If the transmitter signal is lost for any reason, the 350 QX3 will respond

according to the following conditions:

• If the motors are stopped, the 350 QX3 will disarm.

• If the motors are turning but the 350 QX3 is not fl ying, it will stop the motors 

and disarm. 

• If the 350 QX3 is fl ying and has a good GPS lock with a home position set, it 

will activate the Return Home function (rapid red fl ashing LED) upon the loss 

of the transmitter signal. 

• If the compass is faulty, not connected or if there is no GPS lock,

the 350 QX3 descends slowly when the transmitter signal is lost.

• If the pressure sensor is not working, the 350 QX3 reduces power to

control the decent when the transmitter signal is lost.
11 EN

Flight Guidelines and Warnings

• Always inspect the model before fl ight. 

• Always keep aircraft in sight and under control.

• Always keep people and pets at least 35 feet (10 meters) away when the 

battery is connected.

• Keep children out of the vicinity of this product at all times.

• Always use fully charged batteries.

• Always keep transmitter powered on while aircraft is powered. 

• Always remove batteries before disassembly.

• Always keep moving parts clean.

• Always keep parts dry.

• Always let parts cool after use before touching.

• Always remove batteries after use.

• Never operate aircraft with damaged wiring.

• Never touch moving parts.

• Always follow the most up to date AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code. Preparing the 350 QX3 For Flight

CAUTION: When the home location is set (step 6), the 350 QX3 must be approximately 16 feet (5 meters) from where the pilot will stand during fl ight, pointing away from the pilot. If the aircraft is pointed in any other direction, the SAFE Circle feature will not function as expected and may result in personal injury 

or damage to property. Once the aircraft’s motors are started, do not change your position.

1. Power on the transmitter with the fl ight mode set to 

Smart Mode.

2. Remove the battery hatch. Install a fully charged

battery pack, connect the blue EC3TM battery connector 

and reinstall the hatch.

3. With the quad on a level surface, turn on the power 

switch and allow the 350 QX3 to initialize.

If the GPS is enabled, wait for the GPS signal to be

acquired (solid green LED).

IMPORTANT: While in Smart Mode, the motors will not 

start if a GPS signal has not been acquired.

4. Move the aircraft to the desired home location and

orient the aircraft pointed away from the pilot.

5. Step back approximately 16 feet (5 meters) from the 

home location.

6. To start the motors, move both sticks into the bottom 

inside corners, then back to center.

7. The props will begin to spin. The home position for GPS 

functions is set and your aircraft is ready to fl y. 

Lower the throttle stick fully and hold the bind button to 

stop the motors after fl ight.

16 feet (5 meters)

350 QX3 home location

Pilot location

Smart Mode Flying Front

LED

Flying the 350 QX3

Takeoff

The throttle control for the 350 QX3 changes the altitude 

of the quadcopter by moving the throttle stick above or 

below half throttle. As you move the throttle stick above 

half, the quadcopter will climb. As you move the throttle 

stick below half, the quadcopter will descend. The farther 

away from half you move the throttle stick, the faster the 

quadcopter will climb or descend.

To takeoff, slowly advance the throttle to slightly above 

half. The 350 QX3 will slowly climb. When the quadcopter 

reaches the desired height, ease the throttle back to half 

to hold that altitude.

Explore the fl ight envelope of the 350 QX2 AP in 

Smart Mode without fear of losing orientation. See 

the diagrams in the Flight Modes Explained section for 

more details on the aircraft’s function in Smart Mode.

In Smart Mode, the direction the aircraft is pointing 

does not affect the control, and the aircraft’s response 

relative to you (the pilot location) does not change with 

orientation. AP Mode operates more like a conventional 

RC helicopter or multicopter.

Throttle stick

Climb

Descend

NOTICE: If you begin to lose control, release the control 

sticks and the model will self-level.

Pay close attention to the LED while fl ying. If at any time 

the LED indicates the fl ight battery voltage is low (below 

10.6V), as shown In the LED code section, land the 350 

QX3 immediately and charge the fl ight battery.

SAFE CircleTM
EN 12

Return Home

NOTICE: Return home will only function if the

350 QX3 has GPS lock.

• When this feature is activated, the LED will rapidly 

fl ash red.

• The 350 QX3 will fl y back to its assigned home location and land. After landing, the motors may take up 

to 5 seconds to stop.

• The return home function may be cancelled by 

switching back to Smart or AP Mode using the fl ight 

mode switch.

• To restart the props after landing in Return Home, 

move both transmitter sticks to the bottom inside 

corners and then back to center.

CAUTION: The 350 QX3 will not recognize the 

SAFE Circle feature when Return Home is used. 

Activating Return Home may cause the 350 QX3 to 

fl y directly over the pilot if the aircraft was fl own to a 

position behind where the pilot was standing when the 

home position was established.

Activating Return Home Landing

To land the 350 QX2 AP there are two options: 

• Guide the aircraft to where you wish to land. Slowly 

reduce the throttle below half to descend and land. 

When the quadcopter has landed, lower the throttle 

completely and press the bind button to stop the 

motors.

• Activate the Return Home function to return the

350 QX3 to the assigned home location and land 

automatically.

CAUTION: Do not activate the Return Home

function if the 350 QX3 is showing the low

battery indication. Manually land the aircraft

immediately.

After Your Flight

1. Turn off the power switch on the 350 QX3.

2. Turn off the power to your transmitter.

3. Unplug and remove the battery from the 350 QX3. 

Recharge your battery following the charging

warnings and instructions.

CAUTION: Always disconnect the Li-Po battery from the aircraft when not fl ying to avoid 

over-discharging the battery. Batteries discharged to a 

voltage below the lowest approved voltage may become 

damaged, resulting in loss of performance and potential 

fi re when batteries are charged.

Location alert

The motors will beep under the following conditions:

• At any time the props stop spinning after they have 

been initialized. 

• After 30 seconds of no throttle input (waiting armed 

on the ground).

This will alert the pilot to the location of the aircraft if it 

lands in a location with low visibility. 

Beeping will continue until the battery can no longer 

supply enough power to the motors.

If the quadcopter crash lands and one or more motors 

are stopped by an impact, the quadcopter enters 

emergency mode. The LED will fl ash white and the 

motors will beep loudly.

b

a

Motor Stop
13 EN

North

4X

4X

a b c d

Calibration Procedures

Compass calibration procedure:

NOTICE: The following procedure has to be

completed within 30 seconds after entering compass 

calibration mode.

1. Power the transmitter.

2. Power on the 350 QX3 and face the

quadcopter pointing North.

3. Cycle the top left transmitter switch completely

4 times as shown at the left.

4. The 350 QX3 indicates it has entered compass

calibration mode by slowly fl ashing the LED orange.

5. When the LED begins to fl ash rapidly, complete

all 4 rotations of the 350 QX3 as shown in the

illustration at left within 30 seconds, rotating the 

quad 45° counterclockwise between each rotation.

6. Hold the quad level, facing North and check the LED.

Green = Ready

Red = Repeat Compass Calibration

Accelerometer calibration procedure:

1. Power on the transmitter and 350 QX3 and

place the quad on a fl at, level surface.

2. While holding the bind switch on the transmitter, 

cycle the top left switch 4 times as shown at the left.

3. The 350 QX3 will emit a series of slow tones

followed by a series of rapid tones, indicating the 

calibration has started.

4. Do not move the 350 QX3 while it performs the

accelerometer calibration procedure.

5. When the procedure has completed, the 350 QX3 will 

emit a “happy” tone and the LED will display green 

indicating the calibration was successful. If it emits a 

“sad” tone and the LED displays solid red, repeat the 

calibration procedure. 

Pressure Sensor Calibration 

The pressure sensor is calibrated at the factory on the 

350 QX3. Recalibration should only be necessary if you 

replace the sensor. 

1. Place the 350 QX3 in a cold area. Allow it to remain 

in the cold for 30 minutes or more. 

2. Bring the 350 QX3 out of the cold and into a warm 

area. The greater the difference in temperature 

between the cold and warm areas, the more accurate 

the calibration will be.

3. Ensure your transmitter is off and then connect a 

fl ight battery to the 350 QX3Power the 350 QX3 ON 

and let it initialize. The status LED will remain off.

4. Hold the 350 QX3 upside down until the status LED 

fl ashes blue, indicating it has entered bind mode.

5. Set the quadcopter back upright.

6. Bind your transmitter to the 350QX3 with the rudder 

stick fully to the right. The LED will blink red and blue 

rapidly. Leave the aircraft and transmitter powered 

on and allow the aircraft to warm up for 10 minutes. 

Do not move the aircraft during this time.

7. After 10 minutes the motors on the aircraft will beep 

to indicate the calibration is complete. Power off the 

aircraft and then your transmitter. 

If the 350 QX3 displays the failed calibration code, power 

off the aircraft and then begin the pressure calibration 

procedure again. 

Rudder right

Bind in pressure calibration mode
EN 14

Graphic User Interface

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution

350 QX3 will not initialize The quadcopter was moved during initialization Re-arm the aircraft, being cautious to avoid any movement during

initialization

GPS will not lock

Heavy overcast Wait for lighter cloud cover and re-lock or disable GPS

Solar fl ares Wait for disturbance to subside or disable GPS

Aircraft is indoors Disable GPS

Objects blocking clear access to the sky

(under a metal cover, inside a car, tall buildings, etc...) Move aircraft to a clear area

Video transmitter nearby Re-position or remove video transmitter

GPS has reduced resolution

Raised threat level by the U.S. government Wait for threat level to be reduced or disable GPS

The GPS antenna coaxial cable is nicked, cut,

or otherwise damaged Replace the GPS antenna

GPS functions not operating 

properly

The compass has been exposed to a magnet Move the aircraft away from the magnetic source. In worst case

scenario, the compass may need to be replaced

The GPS antenna coaxial cable is nicked, cut, or otherwise 

damaged Replace the GPS antenna

The aircraft is behaving erratically Rebind the aircraft with the GPS function off

Aggressive fl ight Fly level for a few seconds before using other modes

Motors won’t start

GPS lock has not been acquired Ensure GPS antenna has clear view of sky and GPS lock has been 

acquired

‘Compass error’ is indicated by the LED See below for troubleshooting ‘compass error’

Incorrect start up procedure Review start up procedure in manual

Blinking yellow led

‘compass error’ indication

Model is too close to a metal object or metal surface Move model away from large metal objects or surfaces

Compass needs calibration Calibrate compass

(see calibration reference)

Steady beeping,

motors won’t start Throttle trim is not centered

Calibrate DX4 transmitter

(AP or RTF version)

Center throttle trim (BNF version)

Won’t hold position in hover

Weak GPS signal Check GPS antenna mast is extended

Compass needs calibration Calibrate compass

(see calibration guide)

Accelerometers need calibration Calibrate accelerometers

(see calibration guide)

Motors take a long period of

time to shut off after completing 

return to home

Pressure calibration is needed Refer to the Pressure Sensor Calibration section of this manual

If you need to update the fi rmware in your quadcopter, download the PC user

interface* at http://www.bladehelis.com/ProdInfo/Files/350_QX_PC_Interface.zip

Follow the on-screen instructions for installation and operation.

This graphic user interface allows you to monitor systems, adjust system settings 

and calibrate sensors.

Sensor Information Screen

• See status of all sensors and speed controls at a glance

• Check battery voltage and accelerometer operation

Calibration Screen

• Calibrate accelerometers and camera gimbal

• Review instructions for compass sensor and DX4 transmitter calibration

• Adjust geo-referenced fl ight boundaries

GPS Screen

• See number of available satellites and signal strength

• Verify latitude, longitude and altitude indications

• Verify GPS accuracy

Device Information Screen

• See programming software version

• See quad fi rmware version and vehicle ID

• Update fi rmware

*Requires USB Interface (BLH7840) sold separately.
15 EN

Parts of the 350 QX3

LED Indicator

LED Indicator

Flight Battery Door

Power Switch

Power Switch

CGO2

Camera/Gimbal

(AP Combo)

Camera LED

Camera Lens

Wi-Fi Antenna

GPS Antenna Mast

Front

Back

Bottom
©2015 Horizon Hobby, LLC.

Blade, SAFE Circle, the SAFE logo, the BNF logo, E-fl ite, Celectra, DSM, DSMX, EC3

and the Horizon Hobby logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Horizon Hobby, LLC.

The Spektrum trademark is used with permission of Bachmann Industries, Inc.

US 7,391,320. Other patents pending. 

Created 11/14 46736.1 EN
APPENDIX B
Inspection Date Aircraft Repairs needed Repaired? (Y/N)