UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, D.C.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF:

SkySalt Aerial, LLC

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF 

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

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

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL 

OPERATION OF DJI PHANTOM 3 AND DJI INSPIRE 1 UNMANNED 

AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on June 11, 2015 

Tyler D. McCarty

SkySalt Aerial, LLC 

2626 Harney St

Omaha, NE 68131

Tel: (402) 677-2442
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH SKYSALT

AERIAL, LLC SEEKS EXEMPTION.................................................................6 

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF SKYSALT AERIAL, LLC SEEKS AND THE 

REASON SKYSALT AERIAL, LLC SEEKS THE 

RELIEF.................................................................................................................8 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING SKYSALT AERIAL, LLC'S

REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ......................................12 

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT 

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

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER......24 

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS 

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT SKYSALT AERIAL, LLC'S

REQUEST...............................................................................................................25 

CONCLUSION....................................................................................................................25 

APPENDICES........................................................................................26
3

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation 

GCS Ground Control Station 

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link 

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot In Command

Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333

SO Safety Observer

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
4

SUMMARY

SkySalt Aerial, LLC 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 SkySalt Aerial, LLC to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the 

commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography for wedding 

videography, real estate photography, corporate marketing, special events, film sets, and 

landscape over certain areas of the United States. 

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

SkySalt Aerial, LLC provides its clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced 

technologies and solutions to increase efficiency, productivity and effectiveness. SkySalt 

Aerial, LLC also provides its clients with the highest quality digital content for use in their 

commercial, personal, and non-profit multimedia projects. SkySalt Aerial, LLC and it's 

sister companies have over 7 years of professional experience in video production and 

photography and is recognized as an expert this field. SkySalt Aerial, LLC has over 3 

years of recreational/hobby experience in all aspects of aerial video and photography. The 

objective of SkySalt Aerial, LLC's aerial video and photography operations is to provide

high quality imaging for a variety of wedding, commercial, public, and residential uses, 

specifically targeting:

 Wedding Videography and Photography

 Motion Picture Filming and Commercial Cinematography

 Real Estate Photography

 Increase public knowledge of UAS and promote safe UAS operations.

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3, DJI Inspire 1 UASs

SkySalt Aerial, LLC seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation 

or hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 are vertical takeoff and 

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

(GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 3 has a 

maximum gross weight of approximately 2 pounds 13 ounces, while having a length of 18

inches, width of 13 inches, height of 8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 30

knots. The DJI Inspire 1 has a maximum gross weight of 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, a length of 

17.3 inches, width of 17.7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of 

approximately 42 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1UAs are equipped with four 

main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors. 

The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs that will be operated by SkySalt Aerial, 

LLC will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as 

well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. 

Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking.
5

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, SkySalt Aerial, LLC, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation 

Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby 

petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 3, DJI Inspire 1 

UASs in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the 

requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated 

with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, SkySalt Aerial, LLC's operation of DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs 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, SkySalt Aerial, LLC requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth 

requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that the requested relief is proper since an 

equivalent level of safety will be ensured. SkySalt Aerial, LLC will use experienced 

personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance 

on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating 

documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 

Instruction Manual). Furthermore, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs. 

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

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by SkySalt Aerial, LLC to the 

extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level 

certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting 

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

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs in a manner consistent with this exemption, 

including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from 

people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft 

airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs do not require an 

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

SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that they will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 

1 UASs are in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UASs 

are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition 

for safe flight. 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 

91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs will not 

have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning 

System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks 

from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, 

combined with SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 
6

Inspire 1 UASs within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of 

safety equivalent to Section 91.121. 

Additionally, SkySalt Aerial, LLC seeks an exemption from the requirements of 

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

LLC submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

Inspire 1 UAs during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under 

visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 

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

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

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, SkySalt Aerial, LLC provides the 

following information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

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

SkySalt Aerial, LLC c/o Tyler McCarty

2626 Harney St

Omaha, NE 68131

Tel: (402) 677-2442

Email: info@skysaltaerial.com

B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. from Which SkySalt Aerial, LLC

Seeks Exemption. 

1. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

61.113(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, 

subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part: 

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command 

(PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or 

hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft. 

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in 

connection with any business or employment if—

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and 

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

2. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.7(a).

Section 91.7, entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, subsection (a), states the 

following: 

(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. 

3. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of

Section 91.121. 
7

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. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection

(b), states the following: 

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless 

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly 

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

fly after that for at least 20 minutes. 

5. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 

91.405(a).

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

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

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

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

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

6. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 

91.407(a)(1)
8

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. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 

91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections, subsection (a), states the following:

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an 

aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had --

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has 

been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this 

chapter; or 

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance 

with part 21 of this chapter. 

8. SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections

91.417(a) And 91.417(b).

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

following: 

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

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

specified in paragraph (b) of this section: 

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

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

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

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

include--

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

the work performed; and 

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

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

aircraft for return to service. 
9

(2) Records containing the following information: 

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

each rotor. 

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

propeller, rotor, and appliance. 

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

are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis. 

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

last inspection required by the inspection program under which the 

aircraft and its appliances are maintained. 

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

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

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

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

required. 

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

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

propellers, and appliances. 

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

prescribed: 

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

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

work is performed. 

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

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

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

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

approved for return to service. 

C. The Extent Of Relief SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks And The Reason 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks The Relief. 
10

1. Extent Of Relief SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks And The Reason SkySalt

Aerial, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and 

limitations: Pilot in command, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding 

a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical 

certificate, and who has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, to conduct the 

proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. 

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) 

state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in 

connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that 

business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire. 

As set forth more fully below, SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that an equivalent 

level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI 

Phantom 2 UAS or DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and 

currency requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either the DJI 

Phantom 2 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications 

as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as 

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

Further, SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

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

incidental to SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or 

property for compensation or hire.

2. Extent Of Relief SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks And The Reason SkySalt

Aerial, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).

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

extent required to allow SkySalt Aerial, LLC to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

Inspire 1 UASs are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is 

in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the SkySalt Aerial, LLC Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 

Instruction Manual). 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

Inspire 1 UASs do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. 

Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 and 

DJI Inspire 1 UASs are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the 

operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 

1 Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in 

condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

3. Extent Of Relief SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks And The Reason SkySalt

Aerial, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.
11

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

flight operations of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, which utilize a barometric 

pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to 

downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). 

Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be 

reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), SkySalt Aerial, 

LLC seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Inspire 1 UA’s 

altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric 

pressure or field altitude, before each flight. 

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 

91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and 

limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will 

be maintained since the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs are equipped with a 

barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground 

level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with 

altitude information of the UA on the heads-up display of the GCS. 

4. Extent Of Relief SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks And The Reason SkySalt

Aerial, LLC Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR 

conditions, is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs during daylight hours in visual meteorological 

conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to 

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

at least 4.5 minutes. SkySalt Aerial, LLC seeks the requested relief because without an 

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

Phantom 2 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial 

video or still photo flight operations that SkySalt Aerial, LLC proposes to conduct 

pursuant to this Petition. 

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 operating documents, and 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that SkySalt Aerial, LLC 

will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs during 

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

with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of 

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

minutes.

5. Extent Of Relief SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks And The Reason SkySalt

Aerial, LLC Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1),

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).
12

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, SkySalt Aerial, LLC requests relief 

from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs do not require 

airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

Inspire 1 UASs meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an 

airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will use trained technicians to 

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

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

SkySalt Aerial, LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will 

document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 

UASs. 

D. The Reasons Why Granting SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s Request Would Be In 

The Public Interest; That Is, How It Would Benefit The Public As A Whole. 

Granting the present Petition will further the public interest by allowing SkySalt 

Aerial, LLC to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and 

photography for wedding films, real estate, special events, film sets, and landscape over 

certain areas of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will decrease 

congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. 

Notably, the benefits of SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

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

The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs are battery powered and serve as a safe, 

efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain 

aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial 

acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS 

would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as 

well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. 

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, 

congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The 

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs do not require an airport to takeoff or land. 

Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography 

missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during 

the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, 

instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels 
13

of air and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography 

flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

Inspire 1 UASs produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious

alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are 

typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20-30 

gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs, while 

reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the 

UAs are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion 

engine. 

By using the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs to perform aerial acquisitions, 

the substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually

associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced

or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the 

aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs (weighing approximately 2 pounds 13

ounces and 6 pounds 7.5 ounces respectively, at their maximum gross weights with lengths 

of 18 inches and 17.3 inches respectively, widths of 13 inches and 17.7 inches 

respectively, and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage 

to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that 

typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a 

wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). 

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs 

are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial 

operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will allow 

United States based companies, like SkySalt Aerial, LLC, to remain competitive and 

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

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

leaded aviation fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative 

technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 3

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs is one such technology that not only allows companies greater 

operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without 

the high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft. 

By operating the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, companies such as 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC, can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater 

job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of 

the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, 

through commercial use of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, provides a stable 

workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax 

revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain 

competitive both in the United States and abroad. 

4. There Are No Privacy Issues.
14

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for 

decades, SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 

1 UASs will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI 

Inspire 1 UASs will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., the 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner 

involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with the 

Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 

91.119. 

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

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

Provided By The Rule From Which SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs Meet The

Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)

Section 333.

In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated 

with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will 

not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. 

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness 

certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a 

hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part: 

(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not 

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

Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may 

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

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

section 334 of this Act. 

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

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

(1) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their 

size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and 

populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create 

a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a 

threat to national security; and

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or 

airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States 

Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems 

identified under paragraph (1). 
15

(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, SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that the DJI Phantom 

3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 

333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 

1 UASs; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating 

limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs

Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs do not create a hazard to users of 

the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its 

size, weight, speed, and operational capability. 

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1

UASs.

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs are set 

forth by the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 Specifications and Data Sheet, attached 

hereto as Exhibit A and B. 

ii. The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Autonomous Flight And

Navigation Modes Enable The UASs To Remain Within A Defined

Operational Area.

The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs may be operated in both manual and 

fully autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational 

modes of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs is provided at pages 11-17 and 40-46

of the DJI Phantom 3 and pages 12-16 and 45-50 of the DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals, 

attached hereto as Exhibit C and D. 

iii. The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Are Designed For

Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss

Of The Control Link Or Navigation.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs will 

remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom

3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs do not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAs will 

assume that the Control Link is lost and the UAs will return to the home position (i.e., 

failsafe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown. 

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set 

forth at pages 12 through 14 and for the DJI Inspire 1 at pages 13 through 15 of the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals, attached hereto as Exhibit C and D. 

iv. The DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 GCS And Its Operation.
16

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 3

and DJI Inspire 1 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 23 through 38 of 

the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual and pages 40 through 47 of the DJI Inspire 1 User 

Manual. DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals are attached hereto as Exhibits C 

and D.

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Are

Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With

A Safety Observer.

SkySalt Aerial, LLC will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current 

and valid airman medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs. Additionally, a safety observer will assist all pilots 

during flight time. 

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs Will Be Conducted

Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, SkySalt Aerial, LLC proposes to commercially operate 

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs for the special purpose of conducting aerial video 

and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific 

operating limitations:

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

aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs weighing less 

than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1

Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will 

require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant. 

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations

for the purpose of aerial video and photography.

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

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

level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating

documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes

reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

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

times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any

device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued airman

medical certificate.

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

permitted.

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

the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability.

The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic

messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be
17

designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the 

duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the 

functions prescribed in the operating documents. 

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing

and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and

is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments.

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during

UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a

discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the grant

of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the

conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence

and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as

outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its

operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions

and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request.

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

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

that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted

the exemption, then the operator must petition for amendment to its grant of

exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if

questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents.

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a

condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the

safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the

necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a

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

preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly

documented in the aircraft records.

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS

operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical

component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the

functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records.

12. The pre-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g.

inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the

relevant sections of the operating documents.

13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component,

maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements.

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping

requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance,

inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts

must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description
18

of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the 

UAS to service. 

15. Each UASs operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer

Safety Bulletins.

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the

corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

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

third- class medical certificate.

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the

operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate

the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining

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

qualification flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R.

§ 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are

permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may

only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training,

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

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

with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. §

91.119. 

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. §

1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions

(VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA

office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight

rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as

denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter of

agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is

conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA.

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

the Administrator upon request.

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

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

PIC.

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a predetermined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered

in accordance with the operating documents.
19

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

emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.

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

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

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

remaining.

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

of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the

grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice

to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48

hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance

with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including class of airspace,

altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

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

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

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

Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.

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

and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications

Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency

requirements.

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

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

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

Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

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

operations and activities at all times.

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

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

persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons),

vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating

persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The

operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such

protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such

protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease

immediately and/or;
20

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

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

permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of

operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present

an undue hazard, and;

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

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

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

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

Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

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

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

must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) within 24

hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board

(NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.

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

And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that the equivalent level of safety established by 

Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate 

the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting 

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

DJI Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. 

Considering SkySalt Aerial, LLC’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 DJI Phantom 3 or DJI 

Inspire 1 UAS, SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that the additional manned airmanship 

experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship 

skills necessary for SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s specific proposed flight operations. 

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to 

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

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

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 or DJI 

Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour 

requirements or the DJI Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS training and currency 

requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1

UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency 
21

maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and 

structures. 

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent 

with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a 

minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of 

UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, 

the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency

purposes). 

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight 

experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an 

equivalent level of safety during SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s proposed operations. The 

Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in 

compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows: 

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for 

the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have 

accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of 

total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS 

pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the 

PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot 

operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the 

exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements 

to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be 

included in the 10 hours of multi-rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in 

the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the 

PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for 

currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight-hour requirements 

in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the 

skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA 

also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance 

with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, 

and experience-building flights can also be conducted under the grant of exemption 

to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and 

experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate 

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

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. 

Accordingly, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will ensure safe operations by not allowing any 

PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, 

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

operate the DJI Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. 

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a)

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained 

because prior to every flight, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will ensure that the DJI 
22

Phantom 3 or DJI Inspire 1 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s 

compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations 

herein. 

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific 

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

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

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained 

because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs will be 

provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, 

which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and 

altitude. This altitude information, combined with SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s operation of the 

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAs within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet 

AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information 

will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a 

zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UASs at ground level. 

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

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

Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 

11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b)

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by

14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; 

and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, SkySalt Aerial, LLC 

will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1

UAs during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total 

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

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

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

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location 

of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 

C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 and 

DJI Inspire 1 UASs provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the 

UAs experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% 

remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the 

critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs 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 
23

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

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

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

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

11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 

11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would

Not Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that the equivalent level of 

safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by 

Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met 

because SkySalt Aerial, LLC will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, 

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

practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the SkySalt Aerial, LLC Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 

Instruction Manual). Furthermore, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will document and maintain all 

maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs. 

Since the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will be inspected as prescribed by 

the operating documents, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will maintain the equivalent level of 

safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the 

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 User Manuals are attached hereto as Exhibit C and D; a 

copy of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as 

Exhibit E. 

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations 

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

prescribed by the operating documents. 

Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety 

established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the 

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs will be performed by trained technicians. 

Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. 

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is 

not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the 

UAS are considered. 

In consideration of SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s proposed operating limitations, the 

operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 

UASs, SkySalt Aerial, LLC submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting 

exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 

91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to 

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

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

11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.
24

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, SkySalt Aerial, LLC requests 

that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds 

necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 

91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such 

special conditions will permit safe operation of the UAs for the limited purpose of 

conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States for 

compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering

whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a 

threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate 

without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be 

established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS. 

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R.

§ 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, since the

airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate 

safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design features of the aircraft. Section 21.16, 

entitled Special Conditions, states the following: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

the regulations. 

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.

Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA 

may prescribe special conditions for SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s intended operation of the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs, which contain such safety standards that the 

Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 

14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 

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

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

From Which SkySalt Aerial, LLC Seeks Exemption: 

SkySalt Aerial, LLC 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). 
25

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption SkySalt Aerial, 

LLC Seeks: 

This exemption will permit SkySalt Aerial, LLC to commercially operate an 

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

photography over certain areas of the United States.

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

SkySalt Aerial, LLC’s Request. 

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

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

UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, SkySalt Aerial, LLC’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, SkySalt Aerial, LLC will operate the DJI Phantom 3

and DJI Inspire 1 UASs safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, 

or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. 

CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, SkySalt Aerial, LLC seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 

C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs 

commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting 

aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this 

Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, 

by allowing SkySalt Aerial, LLC to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs commercially within the NAS. 

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

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, SkySalt Aerial, LLC 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 SkySalt Aerial, LLC to operate the 

DJI Phantom 3 and DJI Inspire 1 UASs commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial 

video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

Dated: June 11, 2015
26

Respectfully Submitted

SkySalt Aerial, LLC

_________________________

Tyler D. McCarty

SkySalt Aerial, LLC, President 

2626 Harney St

Omaha, NE 68131

Tel: (402) 677-2442

EXHIBITS:

A – DJI Phantom 3 Specifications Data Sheet

B – DJI Inspire 1 Specifications Data Sheet

C – DJI Phantom 3 Manufacturer’s User Manual

D – DJI Inspire 1 Manufacturer’s User Manual

E – Monthly Maintenance Log

F – DJI Inspire 1 Maintenance Manual

EXHIBIT – A

DJI PHANTOM 3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

SkySalt Aerial, LLC only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in 

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

the user to set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. 
27

Parameters can also be set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude 

as well as limit flight to a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software 

provides real-time altitude and location information to the PIC via the linked monitor 

(smart phone/tablet devices)

1.1 DJI Phantom 3

1.1.1 Aircraft

1.1.1.1 Supported Battery – DJI 4480mAH LiPo 4S 15.2V Battery

1.1.1.2 Weight (Battery & Propellers Included) – 1280g 

1.1.1.3 Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly) – Vertical: .1m; Horizontal: 1.5m

1.1.1.4 Max Yaw Angular Velocity - 2000/s

1.1.1.5 Max Tilt Angel - 350

1.1.1.6 Max Ascent Speed – 5m/s

1.1.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 3m/s

1.1.1.8 Max Flight Speed – 16m/s 

1.1.2 Gimbal

1.1.2.1 Working Current – Static: 750mA; Dynamic: 900mA

1.1.2.2 Control Accuracy - ±0.030

1.1.2.3 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 - +300

1.1.2.4 Maximum Angular Speed – Pitch: 900/s

1.1.3 Camera

1.1.3.1 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

1.1.3.2 Sensor Size – 1/2.3”

1.1.3.3 Effective Pixels – 12.4M

1.1.3.4 Resolution – 4000x3000

4.1.3.5 HD Video Recording – 4096x2160 MAX

4.1.3.6 Recording Field of View - 1100/850

1.1.4 Transmitter

1.1.4.1 Operating Frequency – 2.400 GHz-2.483 GHz

1.1.4.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – FCC Compliance: 

2000m

1.1.4.3 Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) - -101dBm

1.1.4.4 Transmitter Power – FCC Compliance: 20dBm

1.1.4.5 Working Voltage – 120mA@7.4V
28

EXHIBIT – B

DJI INSPIRE 1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

SkySalt Aerial, LLC only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in 

small UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software 
29

enabling the user to set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. 

Parameters can also be set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude 

as well as limit flight to a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software 

provides real-time altitude and location information to the PIC via the linked monitor 

(smart phone/tablet devices)

2.2 DJI Inspire 1

2.2.1 Aircraft

2.2.1.1 Model – T600

2.2.1.2 Weight (Battery Included) – 6lbs 7.5291oz (2935g)

2.2.1.3 Hovering Accuracy (GPS Mode) – Vertical: 0.5m; Horizontal: 2.5m

2.2.1.4 Max Angular Velocity – Pitch: 3000/s; Yaw: 1500/s

2.2.1.5 Max Tilt Angle - 350

2.2.1.6 Max Ascent Speed – 5m/s

2.2.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 4m/s

2.2.1.8 Max Speed – 22m/s (ATTI mode, no wind – NOT RECOMMENDED)

2.2.1.9 Max Flight Altitude – 4500m

2.2.1.10 Max Wind Resistance – 10m/s

2.2.1.11 Max Flight Time – Approximately 18 minutes

2.2.1.12 Motor Model – DJI 3510

2.2.1.13 Propeller Model – DJI 1345

2.2.1.14 Operating Temperature Range – 140F to 1040F (-100C to 400C)

2.2.1.15 Dimensions – 17 1⁄4” x 17 3⁄4” x 12”

2.2.2 Gimbal

2.2.2.1 Model – ZENMUSE X3

2.2.2.2 Output Power (with camera) – Static: 9W; In Motion: 11W

2.2.2.3 Operating Current – Static: 750mA; In Motion: 900mA

2.2.2.4 Angular Vibration Range - ±0.030

2.2.2.5 Mounting – Detachable

2.2.2.6 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 to +300; Pan: ±3200

2.2.2.7 Mechanical Range – Pitch: -1250 to 450; Pan: ±3300

2.2.2.8 Max Controllable Speed – Pitch: 1200/s; Pan: 1800/s

2.2.3 Camera

2.2.3.1 Name – X3

2.2.3.2 Model – FC350

2.2.3.3 Total Pixels – 12.76M

2.2.3.4 Effective Pixels – 12.4M

2.2.3.5 Image Max Size – 4000x3000

2.2.3.6 ISO Range – 100-3200

2.2.3.7 Field of View - 940

2.2.3.8 CMOS – Sony EXMOR 1/2.3”
30

2.2.3.9 HD Video Recording – UHD(4K): 4096x2160p24/25, 

3840x2160p24/25/30; FHD: 1920x1080p24/25/30/48/50/60; HD: 

1280x720p24/25/30/48/50/60

2.2.3.10 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

2.2.4 Transmitter

2.2.4.1 Name – C1

2.2.4.2 Operating Frequency – 5.728-5.850GHz; 2.400-2.483GHz

2.2.4.3 Communicating Distance (unobstructed) – 2000m

2.2.4.4 Output Power – 9W

2.2.4.5 Operating Temperature Range - 140F to 1040F (-100C to 400C)

2.2.4.6 Battery – 600mAh LiPo 2S
31

EXHIBIT – C

DJI Phantom 3 Manufacturer’s User Manual
32

EXHIBIT – D

DJI Inspire 1 Manufacturer’s User Manual
33

month:_________year:________

UAS:___________ Date Issue

Discovered

Date Issue

Addressed

Software Updates

Airframe

Engines

Propellers

Camera Gimbal

Landing Gear

Vibration Dampening

Other:

MONTHLY MAINTENANCE LOG

Issue Description & Maintenance Conducted

Maintenance Performed By:

Print & Sign

EXHIBIT – E

EXHIBIT – F

DJI Inspire 1 Maintenance Manual