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 REQUI REMENTS 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
PUR SUANT 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

a ndrew.m.ricard@gmail.comTABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

GLOSSARY OF A BBREVIATIONS...................................................................................3

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

INTRODUCTION AND INTEREST S 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 GRANTI NG 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 FEDE RAL REGISTER.............. ....27

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT ANDREW RICARD’S REQUEST......

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. ........... ....28

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

................................................... .............................28

APPENDICES ........................................................................................29GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level
AOI Area of Interest
ATC Air Traffic Control
ATO Air Traffic Or ganization
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 Unma nned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and LandingSUMMARY

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 qualit y 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

structur es.

• Search and Rescue operations

• B usiness advertisement

• P romotional 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. Th e 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 hav ing 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 Ma rking

.
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 Syste ms , 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), 91.4 09(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 s et 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 personne l 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 a ble 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 operatingdocuments (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and Blade 350 QX3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight.

ANDR EW 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 B lade 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 f light 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 tot al 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 suppo rt 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) pres cribe 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 car ry 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 a ircraft 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 l anding 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 o wner 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 Exemp tion 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 th e 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 ai rworthiness 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, an d 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 s ervice.

(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 in spection 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 revi sion 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 engi nes, 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 owne r 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 Relie f 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 rel ief 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 bu siness 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 exemptio n, 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 o f 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 f rom 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 a ccordance 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 Manu al) 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
i nformation 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 request ed 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 press ure 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 See ks 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
durin g 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
R ICARD 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 inte nded 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 airworthin ess 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

p reventive 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 R ICARD 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 w ill 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 pri vacy issues.1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.

T he 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

r educing 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 do es not re quire 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 la nding 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 great ly 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 prod uce s 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 com bustion 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 a t its m a x i m u m g r o s s w e i g hts 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 O perations 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 oper ations. 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 an d 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
fin ancial 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 resea rch 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, Month ly 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

req uirements 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 Meet s 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 meet s 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 authorit y 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 sta tes 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 determinat ion 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 consid ering 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 oper ated 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 Us er 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 s oftware is pro vided 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 p roposes 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 b y 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
f

or the purpose of aerial video and photography.

3. The UAs may not be flown at an indicat ed airspeed exceeding 20 knots.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above

g round 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

t imes. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as specified on t he PIC’s FAA

- issued airman
medical certificate.

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not

p ermitted.

7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to

s atisfy 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 tr affic 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 up on 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 mu st 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 revise d 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 mainten ance 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 t hat 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 docum ents. 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 th e 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 betwee n 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 demo nstrates 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 ac cordance 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 b e 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 a eronautical 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 availab le 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 it s 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 ac cordance 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 requ est 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 leve l 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
vehi cle.

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 th at 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 pro tection 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 ofoperating 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 representati ve 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 Integrati on 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
certificate d 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 respec ts, 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 P IC 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 equiva lent 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 rotor craft 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 requireme nts 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 app licable 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 flig hts 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 emergen cy 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 Secti on 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 an d 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, 11 080, 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 monitorin g 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 Se ction 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, 1 1161).

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 techn ical 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 o f 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 o ccurring 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 here in (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 est ablished 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, technique s, 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 maintena nce 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 Sections91.405 (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 exem ption 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. Maintenanc e 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 circum stances 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 in tended 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 o f 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
auth ority 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 of14 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 21.1 6, 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 unusu al 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 Additiona l 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
UA S 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 RICAR D wil l 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 conduc ting 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 Refo rm 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

®2 EN

• 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 th e 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 abi lity. 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 instruction s 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 in jury. WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury O R 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 associ ations 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 Spektrum TM 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 MANUAL4 EN



### 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 Mount5 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 )6 EN



### 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 c7 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 times8 EN



### 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 forthe 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 Circle TM

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 avai lability 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 LED10 EN 

### 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 Circle TM 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 EC3 TM 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 Circle TM12 EN

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 Stop13 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 QX3Po wer 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 mode14 EN 

### 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 BInspection Date Aircraft Repairs needed Repaired? (Y/N)