DECOULOS & COMPANY

 ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING & LAND PLANNING

185 ALEWIFE BROOK PARKWAY, CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS 02138

TEL: 617.489.7795 FAX: 877.842.9629

WWW.DECOULOS.COM 

VIA PUBLIC DOCKET UPLOAD

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Docket Management System

Federal Aviation Administration

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington, DC 20590 

Dear Sir or Madam:

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Decoulos & 

Company, LLC seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 CFR §§ 45.23(b), 61.23(a) and (c), 

61.101(e)(4) and (5), 61.113(a) and (b), 91.7(a), 91.9(b)(2), 91.103, 91.109, 91.119, 91.121, 

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

The exemption requests detailed on the following pages will allow the firm to provide aerial data 

collection services in the New England area that provide improved benefits to protecting public 

health, safety and the environment. 

Because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, there is good cause to not require 

publishing a summary of this petition in the Federal Register.

We appreciate your consideration and would be glad to address any questions or concerns 

regarding the request.

Respectfully submitted,

James J. Decoulos, PE, LSP

jamesj@decoulos.com
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUMMARY AND PURPOSE OF EXEMPTION REQUESTS

Contact Information.....................................................................................................................3

Proposed Services........................................................................................................................3

Public Benefits.............................................................................................................................3

UAS COMPLIANCE AND OPERATION

Safety and Compliance ...............................................................................................................4

Preflight Procedures and Inspection ...........................................................................................5

EXTENT AND REASONING OF EXEMPTION RELIEF

14 CFR 45.23(b): Marking of the Aircraft ..................................................................................6

14 CFR 61.23(a) and (c): Medical Certificates ..........................................................................6

14 CFR 61.101(e)(4) and (5): Recreational Pilot Privileges and Limitations ............................6

14 CFR 61.113(a) & (b): Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: Pilot in Command ..............6

14 CFR 91.7(a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness ............................................................................6

14 CFR 91.9(b)(2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual in the Aircraft ................................................7

14 CFR 91.103: Preflight Action ................................................................................................7

14 CFR 91.109: Flight Instruction ..............................................................................................7

14 CFR 91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes ..................................................................................8

14 CFR 91.121: Altimeter Settings .............................................................................................8

14 CFR 91.151(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions ........................................8

14 CFR 91.203(a)(1) and b: Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration ...................9

14 CFR 91.405(a); 91.407(a)(1); 91.409(a)(1) and (2); and, 91.417(a) and (b):

Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance and Alterations.......................................................9

APPENDICES

A – UAS Operation Manual ..............................................................................................11

B – UAS Flight Checklist ..................................................................................................48
3

SUMMARY AND PURPOSE OF EXEMPTION REQUESTS

Contact Information

James J. Decoulos

Decoulos & Company, LLC

185 Alewife Brook Parkway

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138

Office: (617) 489-7795

Email: jamesj@decoulos.com

Web: www.decoulos.com

Proposed Services

Decoulos & Company, LLC (D&C) proposes to use a 3DRobotics X8+ Unmanned Aircraft 

System (UAS) to support its environmental engineering and land planning business. If relief is 

granted in this exemption request, the general services that will be provided are aerial data 

collection services. The services may include environmental and hazardous waste assessments; 

investigation of hazardous waste and petroleum releases; inspection of construction projects; 

evaluation of building energy performance; aerial view analysis of existing properties and 

proposed structures; investigations and three-dimensional mapping of vacant lands and 

developed properties, coastal shorelines, wetlands and waterways, stormwater flooding, solid 

waste facilities, endangered species habitats, archaeological sites, excavation and filling of 

construction sites and quarries, historic properties, telecommunication facilities, utilities, 

vegetation, accident reconstruction and forensics.

The inspections and mapping shall use high-resolution mirrorless cameras, high-definition video 

cameras, laser scanners, light detection and ranging sensors, thermal imaging devices or 

multispectral imaging equipment attached securely to the undercarriage of the Unmanned 

Aircraft (UA). 

Public Benefits

Traditional methods for land and aerial surveillance require large fixed or rotary-winged flight. 

Operation of a multirotor UA in accordance with the rules outlined herein will be safer than these 

traditional methods.

The use of a UAS on construction and hazardous waste sites can significantly reduce risk to 

workers of unnecessary exposure to hazardous contaminants and accidental falls while 

inspecting, surveying or monitoring sites. A UAS can inspect, photograph, analyze and collect 

data on hard to reach areas that otherwise would require direct worker inspection. Falls and 

dangerous personal inspections are a leading source of workplace fatality and injury on 

construction sites, and reducing accidents through utilizing a UAS can protect worker health and 

save lives.
4

Following procedures recommended by 3DRobotics, there is minimal concern for an adverse 

scenario arising that would endanger the general public or operators from the UAS. The 

operation of the UAS will allow for more affordable, quiet and energy efficient means to pursue

aerial mapping, inspection and monitoring. Additionally, use of electric powered UAS over gaspowered, fixed and rotary-winged aircraft will reduce environmental impact and emission of 

greenhouse gases. UAS operation will allow for more expedient completion of projects, and 

allow for more immediate attention to address public health, safety and environmental risks at 

job sites.

UAS COMPLIANCE AND OPERATION

Safety and Compliance

All operating procedures, including preflight, flight, and maintenance, will be in accordance with 

attached manuals. See UAS Operation Manual, Appendix A and Flight Checklist, Appendix B. 

The specifications and operational protocols for the UAS shall be as follows:

1. The UA will weigh less than 25 pounds;

2. Flights will operate at a maximum flight speed of 30 m/s, although typical flight speeds 

will not exceed speeds of 6 m/s during visual or thermal mapping;

3. Maximum mission flight will be 45 minutes or less or when battery reserve drops below 

3DRobotics’ minimum recommended level for safe operation;

4. Operations will occur only under daytime and satisfactory visual flight rules;

5. Prior to flight, the Pilot in Command (PIC) must inspect the UAS for proper operation in 

accordance with procedures outlined by 3DRobotics;

6. In the event the UAS has undergone recent maintenance, a test flight must be performed 

prior to commercial operation;

7. The UAS will be programmed to return to a pre-determined location and land in the event 

the UAS loses communication or requires emergency landing;

8. The PIC will keep the UA within his visual line of sight at all times. One or more Visual 

Observers (VOs) may also be present for operations, if determined necessary by the PIC;

9. The PIC and VO will be able to communicate by voice or radio at all times of flight 

operation;

10. The PIC will be trained in flight operations and safety procedures as detailed in the 

3DRobotics’ flight operations and procedures manuals;
5

11. Prior to proposed operations, the PIC shall have completed at least ten successful takeoffs

and landings before commercial operation of the UAS; and,

12. UAS operations conducted over private property shall be undertaken with permission from 

the property owner. Permission shall be obtained for each flight to be conducted.

Preflight Procedures and Inspection

UAS missions shall be conducted autonomously with the flight path pre-programmed into the 

UAS prior to flight. This UAS mission planning software also includes a geofence, preventing 

the UA from exceeding the maximum range of communication from the central controller. The 

autonomous missions will prevent pilot-induced errors during the mission, greatly reducing the 

likelihood of an accident during flight. Estimated flight time from the planning software will be 

verified with the maximum flight duration time of the specific UAS. Additionally, proper 

landing and takeoff distances and clearance will be taken into consideration to ensure adequate 

safety for the PIC and any VO’s involved in the flight.

Prior to enabling the UAS for flight, the UAS undergoes a series of pre-flight checks that ensure 

proper hardware and software operation has been established. These include checks of the 

compass (hardware, calibration, offsets, magnetic field), barometer, accelerometer, gyro, GPS, 

board voltage, transmitter, and receiver. Additionally, a visual inspection of the UA will be 

performed before every flight to inspect the rotors for any cracks or indications of fatigue, the 

camera and battery for secure and proper mounting to the UA, the frame for any cracks or loose 

bolts, or any other physical sign that would indicate a fault in the UA.

EXTENT AND REASONING OF EXEMPTION RELIEF

Decoulos & Company, LLC seeks relief from the following regulations promulgated by the FAA

for the reasons set forth. 

14 CFR 45.23 (b): Marking of the Aircraft 

Section 45.23(b) requires visual marking of an aircraft with the Roman capital letter “N” 

followed by the registration number, no smaller than 2 inches or larger than 6 inches near the 

entrance to the cabin, cockpit or pilot station. The UAS will not have an entrance to a cabin, 

cockpit or pilot station on which such markings could be placed. Official marking systems for 

small UAS have not yet been established for operations inside the National Air Space.

The registration number shall be placed on the underside of the UA body, along with a card 

approximately 2 inches by 3 ! inches indicating the name, address, phone number, and email of 

the owner. The markings will provide the necessary registration information, in the event the UA 

is lost and found by others, for it to be properly identified. The FAA has issued similar 

exemptions to this regulation. See FAA Exemption Nos. 8738, 10167, 10167A and 10700.
6

14 CFR 61.23(a) and (c): Medical Certificates

Section 61.23(a) and (c) requires a PIC to hold first-class medical certificates. Given the small 

size of the UAV, the lightweight structure, the limited flight area and the safety features 

integrated into the 3DRobotics firmware, the PIC can achieve an equivalent level of safety if he 

is healthy and holds a valid driver’s license.

14 CFR 61.101(e)(4) and (5): Recreational Pilot Privileges and Limitations

The regulation requires that no person who holds a recreational pilot certificate may act as pilot 

in command of an aircraft for compensation or hire or in furtherance of a business. D&C

submits that an equivalent level of safety can be maintained in this rule because the PIC shall 

operate in a responsible manner consistent with the operations specifications as set forth herein, 

including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from 

people, vessels, vehicles, and structures. Further, D&C submits that the additional airmanship 

experience of a commercially certified pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills 

necessary for D&C’s specific proposed operations.

14 CFR 61.113 (a) and (b): Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: Pilot in Command 

Section 61.113(a) and (b) limit private pilots to non-commercial operations. Section 61.113 (a) 

requires an individual with a commercial pilot’s license to be pilot in command of an aircraft for 

compensation or hire.

UA operation does not allow for manned flight of pilot or passengers, and only contains payload 

of a digital camera or electronic sensor to complete its mission. Completion of appropriate precommercial test flights and flights in accordance with the operational manuals will render safer 

operation of the UAS than traditional aircraft. The UA flies a pre-programmed mission, allowing 

for a high degree of safety, including autonomous landing in the event of emergency or low 

power. Commercial operation of a UAS system provides a valuable service to the general public 

and therefore should be exempt from 14 CFR 61.113.

14 CFR 91.7 (a): Civil Aircraft Airworthiness

The regulation requires that no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in airworthy 

condition.

As there will be no airworthiness certificate issued for the aircraft, an exemption is needed for 14 

CFR 91.7 (a). As per 14 CFR 91.7 (b), the PIC of the UAS will bear the responsibility to ensure 

the UAS is airworthy prior to each flight. Given the minimal size of the UA and the safety 

checklists that shall be completed prior to each flight, an equivalent level of safety will be 

achieved.
7

14 CFR 91.9(b)(2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual in the Aircraft

Section 91.9(b)(2) provides that no person may operate a U.S. registered civil aircraft unless 

there is available in the aircraft a current approved airplane or rotorcraft flight manual, approved 

manual material, markings, and placards, or any combination thereof.

Given the limited size of the UAS and the inability for manned flight, an onboard flight manual 

would be unwieldy in size, jeopardizing the operational safety of the UAS, and unnecessary. The 

operational manuals will be available at the ground control point and accessible to the PIC 

during flight, achieving an equivalent level of safety.

14 CFR 91.103: Preflight Action

This regulation requires each pilot in command to take certain actions before flight to ensure 

safety of flight. An exemption is requested because the nature of UAS operation does not 

necessitate need for runway information or traffic delays, although proper clearance space for 

takeoff and landing will be maintained. The PIC shall determine, before each flight, proper 

weather conditions and necessary power reserves for each mission. Additionally, as detailed in 

the section above labeled ‘Preflight Procedures and Inspections’, preflight safety inspections will 

be taken in accordance with flight manuals for the UAS, providing a comparable level of safety. 

See Appendix A. 

14 CFR 91.109: Flight Instruction

Section 91.103 provides that no person may operate a civil aircraft that is being used for flight 

instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls.

By design, a UAS does not have dual controls because they are unnecessary for safe operation. 

Flight control is accomplished through the use of a preprogrammed mission using a Global 

Positioning System (GPS), with a backup of a remote control system that communicates with the 

aircraft via radio communications. Adequate safety is provided by the fact that neither a pilot nor 

passengers will be carried in the aircraft. Additionally, other safety measures as described herein 

and in the operational manual provides for safe autonomous landing in the event of emergency.
8

14 CFR 91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes

Section 91.119 establishes safe altitudes for operation of civil aircraft. Specifically, 91.119(c) 

limits aircraft flying over areas other than congested areas to an altitude of 500 feet above the 

surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas. In those cases, the aircraft may not 

be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure.

To accomplish the commercial services listed herein, aerial work must be accomplished at 

relatively low altitudes, an exemption from Section 91.119(c) is needed. Compared to aerial 

survey operations conducted with aircraft or rotorcraft weighing far more than 25 pounds and 

carrying flammable fuel, any risk associated with these operations will be far less than those 

currently allowed with conventional aircraft operating at or below 500 feet AGL. The lowaltitude operations of the UA will maintain ample separation from the operations of conventional 

aircraft that must comply with 14 CFR 91.119.

14 CFR 91.121: Altimeter Settings

This regulation requires each person operating an aircraft to maintain cruising altitude by 

reference to an altimeter that is set “...to the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate 

altimeter setting available before departure.”

The UA will not have a barometric altimeter, but instead will use on onboard GPS for horizontal 

and vertical positioning. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by confirming the altitude 

from the GPS with the altitude of the launch site prior to each flight.

14 CFR 91.151(a): Fuel Requirements for Flight in VFR Conditions 

This regulation prohibits an individual from beginning “a flight in an airplane 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 – (1) During the day, 

to fly after that for at least 30 minutes; or (2) At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes.”

Due to the limited flight time, the minimum reserve requirements as established by 14 CFR 

91.151 would not allow for appropriate flight times to conduct missions. Missions will be 

preplanned with a defined flight path, with a threshold of safety below the maximum flight time 

to ensure sufficient energy to complete the mission. In the event the energy drops below 

minimum manufacturer’s recommended levels, it will conduct a safe and controlled autonomous 

landing. Due to the small size and operating area of the UA, this will provide an equivalent level 

of safety.
9

14 CFR 91.203(a)(1) and (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration

The regulation states in part that:

(a) Except as provided in § 91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has within 

it the following:

(1) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. . . 

and, 

(b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by 

paragraph (a) of this section or a special flight authorization issued under §91.715 is 

displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is legible to passengers or crew.

Given the limited size of the UA and the inability for manned flight, an onboard copy of the 

certification and registration would be unwieldy in size, jeopardizing the operational safety of the 

UAS. Pursuant to the exemption request of 14 CFR 21.171 – 21.199, the aircraft will not have 

an airworthiness certificate, and therefore will not be available for display. In its place, aircraft 

registration will be placed on a card fixed to the body of the UA as described in section 14 CFR 

45.23(b): Marking of the Aircraft.

14 CFR 91.405(a); 91.407(a)(1); 91.409(a)(1) and (2); 91.417(a) and (b): Maintenance, 

Preventive Maintenance and Alterations

Section 91.405(a) requires that an aircraft operator or owner “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 

...” Section 91.407 similarly makes reference to requirements in Part 43; Section 91.409(a)(1) 

and (2) requires an annual inspection for the issuance of an air worthiness certificate. Section 

91.417(a) and (b) requires the owner or operator to keep records showing certain maintenance 

records. 

The UA requires minimal maintenance by design and has many measures in place to prevent 

operation of a damaged aircraft. An equivalent level of safety will be provided by performing 

pre-flight checks as detailed above in the section titled ‘Preflight Procedures and Inspections’ to 

ensure the UAS is operating normally. Automatic checks which cannot be done by the UAS, 

namely physical inspection of the UA, will be performed by the PIC prior to each flight. Proper 

maintenance will be scheduled and conducted in accordance with the operation manuals for the 

UAS. There is generally limited maintenance required, although if required, the UAS will 

undergo testing before used in commercial operation. All maintenance will be documented as per 

91.417.
APPENDIX A

UAS OPERATION MANUAL
X8+

Operation Manual
Meet the X8

+

Thank you for purchasing an X8+! The X8 is a powerful octocopter platform for aerial video. Review this manual in its entirety before your first flight. Additional instructions can be found in the X8 information portal at 3DR.com/X8/info. Happy flying!
Contents

Parts 2Setup 4Assembly 4Ground Station 5Power Management 7Charging 8Safety 8Controller Battery 9Powering the X8 10Connecting to a Ground Station 11Flight Basics 12Safety 12Operating Limits 13Controls 14Modes 17Return to Launch 19Failsafes 20Status Indicators 22

Flight Procedures Takeoff Landing Monitoring Missions Planning Saving Initiating Ending Appendix Troubleshooting Maintenance Specs Resources 
Parts

USB adapter

Ground Station Radio

Android adapter

SF propellers (4)SFP propellers (4)

Charger and accessoriesGuard bag

RC Controller Propellers Battery Kit 

Flight battery Radio
X8+
Setup: AssemblyThe X8 arrives in travel configuration. Complete these steps to prepare the X8 for flight.1 Unfold Arms

12

Remove the bolts and thumbnuts near the two folded black arms (1). Unfold the black arms, re-insert the bolts, and secure with the thumbnuts (2).12

X8 Assembly: Unfold Arms
2 Unfold LegsRemove the bolts and nuts to the inside of the folded legs (1), unfold the legs, re-insert the bolts, and secure with the nuts (2).

3 Attach PropelleThe X8 uses SF and SFP propeller packages and below shows which motassembly of SF and SFP To attach each propellerand add the correct type the sky. (This is a tight fit; motor.) Replace the waswrench to tighten the nu

12

X8 Assembly: Unfold Legs

top motor: SF

bottom motor: SFP

bottom motor: SF

top motor: SFP

X8 Prop
Ground StationA ground station is a laptop or tablet running an ArduPilot-compatible mission control application. In the field, a ground station helps you monitor the X8 during flight, plan missions, and troubleshoot issues. We recommend using a ground station at all times with the X8. To set up a ground station, choose a platform below and visit 3DR.com/download_software to install the application.

Windows

Mission Planner

OS X

APM Planner

Android

DroidPlanner 2

Important Note About Vehicle Setup in Mission Planner and APM Planner:Your X8 has been pre-configured at the factory and is ready to fly. Re-performing the calibrations on the Initial Setup screen, including the mandatory hardware configurations and setup wizard, can adversely affect the performance of your aircraft.iOS? There are currently no ground station applications available for iOS.
Power ManagementThe X8 is powered by a rechargeable lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. When fully charged, the battery provides up to 15 minutes of flight time depending on payload, environmental conditions, and flying style. Flying with a gimbal, GoPro, and FPV system can reduce flight time by up to 5 minutes. Flying aggressively or in high winds can affect power consumption and reduce flight time. Monitor power consumption using the flight data display on the controller (press and hold the DN button).When the battery reaches the low voltage limit, the X8 initiates a low battery failsafe and lands automatically at the current position. (See page 20 for more information about failsafes.) To avoid a low battery failsafe, regularly check the controller’s flight data display to monitor battery voltage, and end your flight before the battery reaches the low voltage limit.

Press a

button to 

flight battery mAh consumed since armeAnother way to monitor power consumption Monitor the mAh on the controller, and ensuexceed 8,000 mAh (80% of the battery’s avmAh can render the battery permanently un

Do not exceed 8,000 mAh for a fu

flight battery level Full battery: 16.8 VLow battery limit: 14 V

End your flight at 14.1 V.

!

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1

!
ChargingCharge the battery before your first flight!1 Connect the charger to the power adapter cable and plug the adapter cable into a wall outlet. Connect the red cable to the + port and the black cable to the - port.

+

–

2 Set the charger to LiPo and 3A.

LiPo 3A

3 Connect the battery’s white connector to the charger’s 4S port, and join the two yellow connectors together. 

4S

4 Secure the battery inside the guard bag, and charge until the status indicator displays green.

Charging

Complete

Charger with power cable and split-wire charging cable

Charger settings

Flight battery charging wiring Charging in process
Controller BatteryThe controller is powered by 8 AA batteries (included). The controller’s flight data display allows you to monitor the voltage of the controller. When fully charged, the controller displays 12 V; when completely out of charge, the controller displays 9 V. Replace the batteries when the controller displays 9.1 V.

Press a

button to v

controller battery level (9-12 V)

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1 Replace controller batteries at 9.1 

!
10

Powering the X8

Follow these steps to power the X8.

2

To power on the X8, join the yellow connector on the battery with 

the yellow connector on the X8. Keep the X8 still and level while 

it powers on and initializes the sensors. When the status LED 

displays blinking blue, the sensors have completed initialization and 

you can move the X8.

It is important to establish 

communication before powering 

on the X8. Always turn on the 

controller before connecting the 

battery. When powering off the 

X8, disconnect the battery before 

turning off the controller.

1

Turn on the controller. Ensure that the switches 

are set to CH 7 OFF, STD, and RTL OFF.

RC controller

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

X8: Connect battery, keep level while initializing

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

CH 7 switch Mode switch RTL switch

Initializing, keep still and level

Initializing complete

Status LED indicators:

3

When the initialization process is complete, turn over 

the X8 and secure the battery to the underside of the 

vehicle using the velcro straps.

X8: Secure battery

!
11

Connecting to a Ground Station

To connect the X8 to a ground station, connect the ground station radio to 

your laptop or tablet and power the X8.

Tablet (DroidPlanner)

1 

Connect the ground station radio to your 

laptop using the USB adapter. Open 

Mission Planner or APM Planner.

3

Select Flight Data to view live data from the X8.

2

Select AUTO and 57600, then select CONNECT. 

(When connecting directly to Pixhawk’s 

micro-USB port, set the rate to 115200.)

Ground station laptop with radio connected

Mission Planner Connect tool (top-right corner)

Mission Planner Flight Data tab: connected to aircraft

Laptop (Mission Planner/APM Planner)

1

Connect the blue end of the Android adapter 

to your device and the black end to the radio.

2

Select Connect.

Ground station tablet with radio connected DroidPlanner: Connect icon
Flight Basics: Safety

To ensure safe and successful flying, always fly in accordance with your location regulations and these best operating practices.Before you fly, determine the boundaries of your safe flying area. If the X8 moves outside the designated area or exhibits instability in flight, switch to standard mode and land the X8 manually.The X8 cannot avoid obstacles on its own, including during missions. As the operator, it’s your responsibility to recognize and avoid obstructions while flying. Always be ready to regain manual control of the X8 in the event of an unsafe situation. 

visual line of sight 

100 ft (30 m) 

Always fly below 400 ft (120 m) and within your visual line of sight. Don’t let the X8 get too far away from you; make sure you can always see its orientation. Don’t fly in low light, high winds, rain, or other conditions that might impede visibility.

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Spinnbuttopreveprope•    •     

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

visual line of sight 400 ft (120 m)

100 ft (30 m) 5 miles (8 km)

Location

Propellers
Operating LimitsAlways fly within the X8’s operating limits.

Maximum altitude* 100 m (328 ft)Range* 300 m (984 ft) from launch pointGPS lock GPS lock required at all timesMaximum estimated flight time 15 minPayload capacity 800 g (1.7 lbs)

X8+ Operating Limits*While geofence enabled (default)
14

Maneuver the X8 in flight using the 

controller’s two joysticks.

left stick:

throttle

& yaw

right stick:

pitch

& roll

Left Stick

Left Stick

Move the throttle 

stick below center to 

decrease altitude. 

Set the throttle stick 

to center to maintain 

the current altitude.

left stick

Left Stick

Left Stick

Move the left stick vertically to control altitude.

Set the throttle stick 

fully down to land 

once the X8 is a few 

inches above the 

ground.

Left Stick

To take off and to 

gain altitude, push the 

throttle stick slightly 

above center position. 

Left Stick Left Stick

Controls

Throttle
15

Flight Tip

When adjusting orientation, move the left stick horizontally without changing its 

vertical position.

ver + Land

wer just slightly

hover

ft Yaw

Left

Righ

ght Yaw

activate

d until propellers

p spinning

ver + Land

wer just slightly

hover

ft Yaw

Left

Righ

ght Yaw

activate

ld until propellers

p spinning

Move the stick to 

the left to rotate 

counterclockwise.

Move the stick 

to the right to 

rotate clockwise.

left stick

Left Stick

Release the stick to 

stop rotating and 

maintain the current 

orientation.

Move the left stick horizontally to rotate the X8 and change orientation. 

For a slow rotation, move the stick slightly away from the center

in either direction. Moving the stick farther from the center creates 

a faster rotation.

Left Stick

Yaw
16

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Move the right 

stick forward 

to fly forward.

right stick

Move the right 

stick back to fly 

backward.

The right stick allows you to control the X8’s position in the air. Move the right stick to tell the 

X8 to move in that direction: forward (toward the blue arms), back (toward the black arms), 

left (toward the left arms), or right (towards the right arms). How far you move the stick from 

the center before releasing it tells the X8 how fast to move. 

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Left

Back

Forward

Right

Move the right 

stick left to fly 

left.

Move the right 

stick right to fly 

right.

Flight Tip

The X8 moves according to its orientation. The blue arms face forward, and the black 

arms face backward. Before using the right stick, use yaw to keep the X8 facing in 

outward orientation so that the black arms face towards you and the blue arms and face 

away from you.

Pitch and Roll
17

!

Standard (altitude hold mode)

STD

fly manually

Start your flight in standard to select altitude hold mode, 

and fly manually using the controller.

Loiter mode

LTR

hover

Select loiter to hover in place automatically. Use the controller 

to adjust the X8’s position then release the sticks to hold 

that position. Loiter is a great way for beginners to learn how to fly! 

If you’re new to flying, start your first flight in loiter instead of standard.

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

mode switch

The X8 includes three flight modes: manual flight 

(STD-altitude hold), hover mode (LTR-loiter), and 

mission flight (AUTO). Use the switch on the 

right side of the controller to select a flight mode.

To avoid sudden changes in altitude, set the throttle 

stick to center position before switching modes, 

including in the event of a GPS failsafe. See page 20 

for more information about failsafes.

Modes
18

Auto mode

AUTO

fly a mission

Select auto mode to fly an autonomous mission. The X8 

automatically flies the series of waypoints saved to the autopilot. 

See the Missions section on page 28 for instructions on planning and flying missions.

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

Gimbal control

TILT

tilt the camera up and down

Connect a Tarot Gimbal (sold separately), and use the TILT knob to control the 

angle of the camera in flight. Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for instructions. Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Land

CH 7

land at the current position

Set the CH 7 switch to ON to end your flight and land at the current position. 

Once you activate land, set the throttle stick fully down, and the X8 

automatically disarms after landing. The X8 does not disarm automatically 

unless the throttle stick is set fully down.

Reposition during landing: During landing, use the right 

stick on the controller to adjust the X8’s position.

! Do not activate auto mode unless you have saved 

a mission to the X8 using a ground station application.
19

land at the launch point

Set the RTL switch to ON to end your flight and return the X8 to 

the launch point automatically. Once you activate RTL, set the 

throttle stick fully down, and the X8 automatically disarms after 

landing. The X8 does not disarm automatically unless the throttle 

stick is set fully down.

When commanded to RTL, the X8:

1 Achieves minimum altitude of 15 m (50 ft) or maintains current altitude 

 if above 15 m.

2 Moves to launch point and loiters for 5 seconds.

3 Lands at launch point. Wait for a few seconds until the X8 disarms 

automatically.

launch point

1 15 meters 2

3

hover 5 seconds

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

Return to Launch

Reposition during landing: During landing, use the right 

stick on the controller to adjust the X8’s position.

! RTL returns the X8 to the location where it was armed. 

Always arm the X8 at a safe, unobstructed launch point.
20

Failsafes

400 ft

(120 m)

400 ft

(120 m)

Low Battery Failsafe

Environmental conditions, payload, and flying style can affect power 

consumption. Use the controller’s flight data display to monitor the 

voltage of the battery during flight.

If the battery reaches 14 V, the X8 lands automatically at the current 

position, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED and a quick 

repeating tone.

The X8 is programmed with a set of failsafe behaviors to prevent a crash in 

the event of a loss of one of the data or communication channels required for 

flight. Although certain failsafes have assigned LED indicators and tones, it is 

unlikely that you will be able to see these at a distance. Monitor the ground 

station for failsafe indications. If a failsafe is triggered, the assigned behavior 

activates. To override the failsafe behavior, use the controller to switch to 

standard mode and regain manual control. 

RC Controller Signal Failsafe

Physical obstructions and interference from nearby wireless signals can affect 

the X8’s connection with the controller. 

If the X8 loses contact with the controller, it returns to the launch point and lands 

automatically, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED.
21

GPS Failsafe

The X8 requires GPS lock before takeoff. Enclosed areas, physical 

obstructions, and lack of available satellites can affect GPS strength. If 

the X8 loses GPS lock in flight, it triggers a GPS failsafe—indicated by 

a blinking blue and yellow LED with a high-high-high-low tone—and 

automatically switch to manual control (standard - altitude hold mode). 

Always be prepared to regain manual control at any time while flying and 

choose an unobstructed flying area to improve GPS signal strength. When 

flying a mission, we recommended changing the GPS failsafe behavior to 

land. (Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for more information about configuring the 

GPS failsafe.)

Altitude Failsafe

The X8 has a 100 m (328 ft) altitude geofence enabled by default. If the 

geofence is breached, the X8 automatically switches to RTL.

400 ft

(120 m)

manual 

control

100 m

(328 ft)

Range Failsafe

The X8 has a 300 m (984 ft) horizontal geofence enabled by 

default. If the X8 travels farther than 300 m from the launch point, 

it automatically returns to the launch point and lands. If you plan to 

fly a mission that exceeds this range, you will need to disable the 

horizontal geofence. (Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for instructions.) The 

range failsafe is disabled in the event of a GPS failsafe.
22

Status Indicators

Low battery, automatic landing

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing

Pre-arm safety check failure—connect to a ground station 

and see the troubleshooting section

Loss of GPS signal, switch to standard mode (altitude hold)

Initializing, hold the X8 still and level

Acquiring GPS, please wait

Armed

Autopilot ready, GPS locked

Status LED

The Pixhawk LED indicates the status of the X8. During flight, the LED won’t 

be visible; instead, use a ground station to view the status of the X8. Visit 

3DR.com/X8/info to listen to Pixhawk’s status tones.

X8 Status LED

LED
23

Safety Button

The safety button indicates the status of the motors 

to allow you to arm and disarm the X8 safely.

Safety button

X8 Safety Button

Motors inactive, safe to handle

Motors active, deactivate before handling
24

Flight Procedures: Takeoff

Follow these steps to take off.

» Propellers are attached tightly to the motors in the correct order and 

 the GPS mast is oriented vertically.

» The X8 is powered with the battery secured to the underside of the 

 vehicle. (Remember to hold the X8 still and level while the sensors 

 initialize.)

» The controller is set to CH 7 OFF, standard (STD) mode (loiter mode for 

 beginners), and RTL OFF.

» The status LED displays blinking green, indicating that the X8 has 

 acquired GPS lock. This can take a few minutes depending on your 

 flying location. 

» The X8 is situated at a safe, unobstructed launch point, facing away 

 from you.

Checklist
25

Arm

After completing the checklist, you’re ready to fly! Arming and disarming are 

important steps that must be completed before takeoff and after landing. 

Use the safety button and the controller to arm the X8.

1

Press and hold the safety button until it 

displays solid red. This indicates that the 

X8 is now active. Stand back!

Motors inactive, safe to handle

Motors active, deactivate before 

handling

2

To arm the motors, hold the left stick 

down/right until the motors spin.

Controller left stick: arming position

Safety button indicators

! The arming and disarming procedures ensure that you can safety start and 

stop motors without risk of injury. The X8’s motors will spin when armed! Make 

sure the propellers are clear of any obstructions, including your hands, before 

arming. Do not handle the propellers or pick up the X8 while the safety button 

is active (solid red).
Landing

1Press and hold the safety button until it blinks red. The motors are now inactive, and the X8 is safe to handle.

2To disarm the motors, hold the left stick down/left until the motors stop.

Disarm

For manual landing in standard or loiter mode:

Motors inactive, safe to handle

Motors active, deactivate before handling

Safety button indicators Controller left stick: disarming position

! Do not handle the propellers or pick up the copter while the safety button is active (solid red). Remember to disconnect the battery before turning off the 

controller when powering off.

If you end your flight using the Ch 7 land command or RTL, the X8 disarms automatically; wait for the motors to stop, and proceed to powering off. Attempting to disarm the X8 in either land mode or RTL mode can cause the cause the copter to flip.
Monitoring

Press and hold the DN button to access the flight data screensPress DN again to toggle between screens.

current flight modecontroller battery leGPS signal strengt

meters from launch point

flight battery level (

connection strength

current latitude

current longitude

altitude in meters

flight time

altitude in meters

GPS status

speed in m/s

flight battery mAh consumed since aEnd your flight at 1Do not exceed 800fully charged X8+ available capacity)

!

Monitor the X8 in flight using the controller’s flight data screens.

Controller

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 2
MissionsThe X8’s Pixhawk autopilot is capable of flying an autonomous mission without operator input. Ensure that you feel comfortable operating the X8 manually before attempting an autonomous mission.Environmental AwarenessBefore you fly, assess the features of your flying area. Determine the boundaries of the safe flying area, and be prepared to recover the copter manually if it goes outside this area. Be aware of any risks at your location, including bodies of water, structures, trees, etc. Designate a few areas as safety zones where you can safely land the copter in case of an unsafe situation.Radio Signal ConditionsFlying behind solid objects, like buildings and trees, blocks radio signals. Always maintain visual contact with the copter to ensure that the radio signal is unobstructed. Radio towers, cell phone towers, and nearby WiFi signals can also cause interference with the radio system and decrease its range. Avoid flying in populated areas to avoid sources of interference. AltitudeSelect an appropriate altitude for your flying location and local regulations. Remember the X8 cannot avoid obstacles during a mission; it completes the mission as planned. Select altitudes that avoid any obstacles, such as trees, and comply with the safety information in this manual.SpeedBy default, the X8 travels at 6.5 m/s (14.5 mph) during a mission. 

PowerAs the operator, it is your with the X8’s operating limaccount the effect of curRegaining Manual ContDuring a mission, keep thregain manual control at mission, switch to standainstability in the X8’s flighdesignated safe flying areautomatically triggers an as a hard recall commanFailsafesThe X8’s default failsafe bautonomous missions, wfor your flying location. F
Planning

Select the DroidPlanner icon, select Editor. Tap to add waypoints, or select the brush tool and draw a path for the X8 to follow.

Select Flight Plan, and clicthe bottom of the screen t

To plan a mission, power the X8 and connect to your ground station. Ground station applications require an Internet connection to access maps.Tablet (DroidPlanner) Laptop (Mission Planner

DroidPlanner: Edit waypoints Mission Planne

Takeoff and LandingBoth ground station applications provide the option to configure automatic takeoff and landing into the mission. Missions without automatic takeoff and landing must be initiated and ended in flight.
SavingSelect the option menu in the top-right corner, and select Send Mission. This command saves the mission 

to the X8.

On the Flight Plan scSelect Save WP File to 

After planning the mission, save the mission to the X8. The Pixhawk autopilot can store one mission at a time. When you initiate the mission, the X8 starts the mission stored to the autopilot at the time. Tablet (DroidPlanner) Laptop (Mission P

DroidPlanner: Send Mission (option menu)

Mission Planner: Flight Pla
Initiating

StabalizeAltitude HoldLoiterFull AutonomyReturn to Launch

Left Stick

For auto-takeoff, raise throttle to start mission.

Once you’ve saved the mission to the X8, follow these steps to fly the mission.

1 Perform a pre-mission test flight.Follow the standard takeoff procedure, and fly a brief test flight to verify that all controls (throttle, yaw, roll, and pitch) are responding normally.

2 Arm in standard mode.When you’re ready to start the mission, arm the X8 in standard (STD) mode.

3 Switch to auto mode.For automatic takeoff, arm the X8 in standard mode. Then switch to auto mode, and raise the throttle to initiate the mission.For manual takeoff, initiate the mission in flight by switching to auto mode.

Controller: mode switch Controller: mode switch Controller: left stick
Appendix: TroubleshootingMaintenancePre-Arm Safety Check Failure`If the status LED displays blinking yellow, the X8 is failing one of the pre-arm safety checks. To determine heads-up display on the ground station for the error message specifying the failed check.Radio Calibration Failure: Perform radio calibration or RC controller re-bindingAccelerometer Calibration Failure: Perform accelerometer calibrationCompass Calibration Failure: Perform compass calibration GPS Failure: Wait for improved GPS signal or move to a more open area (moVideo tutorials for performing calibrations are available at 3DR.com/X8/info.Replacement parts for the X8 are available for purchase at store.3DR.com.Instructions for replacing the wiring, plates, motors, and legs of the X8 are available at 3DR.com/X8/info.
SpecsBattery: 4S 14.8V 10,000 mAh 10CBattery Dimensions: 6.6 in x 2.6 in x 1.4 in (16.7 cm x 6.5 cm x 3.5 cm)Battery Weight: 803 gAutopilot Hardware: Pixhawk v2.4.5Autopilot Firmware: ArduCopter 3.2GPS: 3DR u-blox GPS with Compass (LEA-6H module, 5 Hz update)Ground Station Radio: 3DR Radio v2 (915 MHz or 433 MHz)Motors: SunnySky V2216-12 KV800 IIFrame Type: XPropellers: APC Propeller 11x4.7 SF (4)

APC Propeller 11x4.7 SFP (4)

Vehicle Dimensions: 13.7 in x 20.1 in x 11.8 in (35 cm x 51 cm x 20 cm)Payload Capacity: 800 g (1.7 lbs)Vehicle Weight with Battery: 2.56 kg (5.6 lbs)Maximum Altitude*: 100 m Range*: 300 m from launch point (1 km when geofence disabled)Maximum Estimated Flight Time: 15 min*While geofence enabled (default)
For more information about the X8, 

ur support line at 

8 am to 5 pm PST.
APPENDIX B

UAS FLIGHT CHECKLIST
Flight Checklist

LED

Motors inactive, safe to 

handle

Low battery, automatic landing

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing

Pre-arm safety check failure

Loss of GPS signal, switch to manual

Initializing, hold the X8 level

Acquiring GPS, please wait

Autopilot ready, GPS locked

Armed

Safety Button

Motors active, deactivate before 

handling (see reverse)

Flight Modes

Return to launch

RTL

land at the launch point

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Standard position 

(altitude hold mode)

STD

fly manually

Loiter mode

LTR

hover

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Return to Launch

!

Stand back!

4 6

The motors are 

now active.

Hold left stick downright until motors spin.

1 2 Power on controller;

set to STD and RTL OFF.

Arm 

motors.

Press and hold safety 

button until solid red.

Connect

charged battery.

Choose a clear launch 

point, and face the X8 

away from you. 

5 Check 3 LED.

Place the X8 at 

launch point.

Go outside to 

an open area!

See the Operation 

Manual for complete 

instructions.

Auto mode

AUTO

fly a mission

©2014 3D Robotics. vA. All rights reserved.

Control gimbal

TILT

tilt the camera down and up

Land

CH7

land at the current position

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

Stabalize

Altitude Hold

Loiter

Full Autonomy

X8+

Hold the X8 still 

and level while 

powering on.
Press and hold until 

blinking red to deactivate.

Hold left stick downleft until motors stop. 

1 2 Disarm 

motors.

Press safety 

button. 3 Disconnect battery. 4Power off 

controller. Postflight

Controller Flight Data

Press and hold the DN button to access the flight data screens. 

Press DN again to toggle between screens.

Lower left stick below 

center to descend.

Set left stick fully down to 

land when near the ground.

Left Stick

Left Stick

Raise left stick above 

center to take off and 

gain altitude.

Move left stick left 

and right to rotate.

Use right stick to fly forward, 

backward, left, and right.

Set left stick to center 

to maintain altitude.

Left Stick

Left Stick

Flight

current flight mode

controller battery level (9-12 V)

GPS signal strength in # of 

satellites

meters from launch point

flight battery level (14-16.8 V)

connection strength

current latitude

current longitude

altitude in meters

flight time

altitude in meters

For customer support, contact us at help@3dr.com

or call our support line at +1 (858) 225-1414 

Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm, PST.

3DR.com/X8/info 

GPS status

speed in m/s

flight battery mAh 

consumed since armed

End your flight at 14.1 V.

Do not exceed 8,000 mAh for 

a fully charged X8+ battery 

(80% of available capacity).

!