Wold Development LLC. 

REQUESTS 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 + UNMANNED AIRCRAFT 

SYSTEMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM 

ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112-95) 

Submitted on December 8, 2015 

Wold Development

Benjamin Wold

6434 E Military Rd. 

Cave Creek, AZ 85331

254-913-7557

nwold53@gmail.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER..................................................................5

BACKGROUND ..........................................................................................................................................6

BASIS FOR PETITION ...............................................................................................................................7

A. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE PETITIONER. .................................................................................8

B. THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH WOLD DEVELOPMENT SEEKS 

EXEMPTION. ..............................................................................................................................................9

C. THE EXTENT OF RELIEF WOLD DEVELOPMENT SEEKS AND THE REASON WOLD 

DEVELOPMENT SEEKS THE RELIEF...................................................................................................12

D. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING WOLD DEVELOPMENT REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE 

PUBLIC INTEREST ..................................................................................................................................14

E. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT 

SAFETY .....................................................................................................................................................16

F. A SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER.................................25

G. ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ................................................................................................25

CONCLUSION...........................................................................................................................................27

EXHIBITS: .................................................................................................................................................28
GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS 

AGL Above Ground Level 

AOI Area of Interest 

ATC Air Traffic Control 

ATO Air Traffic Organization 

AV Aerial Vehicle 

CFR Code of Federal Regulations 

COA Certificate of Authorization 

FAA Federal Aviation Administration 

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation 

GCS Ground Control Station 

GPS Global Positioning System 

LOL Loss of Link 

NAS National Airspace System 

NOTAM Notice to Airman 

PIC Pilot In Command 

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

SOP Standard Operating Procedures 

UA Unmanned Aircraft 

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System 

VFR Visual Flight Rules 

VLOS Visual Line of Site 

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions 

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
SUMMARY 

Wold Development 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 Wold Development LLC to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System 

(UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, real 

estate, Non- Profit and other community special events in and around the State of Arizona. 
INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER 

Wold Development LLC. (Hereinafter referred to as “Wold Development”) provides its commercial 

clients with affordable highest quality digital content for use in their commercial, personal, and other 

photography related projects. Wold Development also provides the community and Non-Profit 

organization our services for no charge as a way of giving back to the community. Wold 

Development is a seasoned leader in unmanned aerial videography with over 2 years recreational/hobby 

experience in all aspects of RC Aircraft, Quadcopters and other small UAS’s. The objective of Wold 

Development aerial video and photography operations is to provide high quality imaging for a variety of 

commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting: 

Aerial Real Estate photography 

Aerial Real Estate Video 

Free Services to Non-Profit and Community Organizations 
BACKGROUND 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3 

Wold Development seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or hire within the 

NAS. The DJI Phantom 3 is a 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 11 ounces, while having a length of 16 

inches width of 16 inches, height of 8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 29 knots. The 

DJI Phantom 3 UAS is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered 

electric motors. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS that will be operated by Wold Development will be 

registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, 

Aircraft Registration, and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and 

Registration Marking. 
BASIS FOR PETITION 

Petitioner, Wold Development, 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 UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from 

the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited 

operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Wold Development operation 

of DJI Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require an 

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Accordingly, Wold 

Development 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. Wold Development submits that the requested relief is proper since 

an equivalent level of safety will always be ensured (see Exhibit D). Wold Development will use 

licensed technicians or the manufacturers’ service centers 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 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, Wold Development will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS. Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot 

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by Wold Development 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 UAS in a manner 

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

appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Wold Development seeks relief 

from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not 

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

Development submits that it will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in an airworthy condition, 

prior to every flight, by determining that the UASs are in compliance with the operating documents 

(i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a 

condition for safe flight. Wold Development also seeks an exemption from the requirements of 

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 3 UA will not have a typical 

barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UA will be 

provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications 

telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight 

path. This altitude information, combined with Wold Development’s operation of the DJI Phantom 3 

UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to 

Section 91.121 and our additional safety requirements as outlined in Exhibit D.. Additionally, Wold 

Development seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel 

requirements for flight in VFR conditions. Wold Development submits that safety will not be affected 

by operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions 

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

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

speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Wold 

Development 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 as follows: 

Wold Development

Benjamin Wold, 

6434 E Military Rd

Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Email: nwold53@gmail.com
B. THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH WOLD DEVELOPMENT 

SEEKS EXEMPTION. 

1. Wold Development 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. Wold Development 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. Wold Development Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121. 

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, subsection (a), states the following, in part: 9 

(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) 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) 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. Wold Development 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. Wold Development 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. Wold Development From The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1) Section 91.407, entitled 

Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration, subsection (a)(1), 

states the following: 

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, 

rebuilding, or alteration unless--

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 

43.7 of this chapter[.] 

7. Wold Development 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. Wold Development 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. 

11 

(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 WOLD DEVELOPMENT SEEKS AND THE REASON 

WOLD DEVELOPMENT SEEKS THE RELIEF. 

1. Extent Of Relief Wold Development Seeks And The Reason Wold Development 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 flighthour 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, Wold Development submits that an equivalent level of safety will be 

maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 3 other than the person listed 

as James R. Fitzpatrick, who has 10+ years’ experience in RC/VAV operation. In addition all flights 

must full under the safety guidelines of Exhibit D, which will be updated as new FAA guidelines 

take place. 

Further, Wold Development submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, conducted by the PIC 

pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Wold Development business; and (2) 

will not carry passengers, packages or property for compensation or hire. 

2. Extent Of Relief Wold Development Seeks And The Wold Development 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 Wold Development to determine that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition prior 

to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the 

Wold Development Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 

Instruction Manual). 

Wold Development seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require an 

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Wold 

Development will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its 

compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 

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 Wold Development Seeks And The Reason Wold Development Seeks Relief 

From Section 91.121. 

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

the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio 

communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the 

ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS 

operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Wold 

Development seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 3 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. 20 
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 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 Wold Development Seeks And The Wold Development 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 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. Wold Development seeks the requested relief because without an 

exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 

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

Wold Development proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. 

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

Phantom 3 operating documents, and Wold Development’s proposed operating limitations, ensure 

that Wold Development will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 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 Wold Development Seeks And The Reason Wold Development Seeks Relief 

From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b). 

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & 

(b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, Wold Development requests relief from 

these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS does not require airworthiness certificates. As set 

forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for 

operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Wold Development 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 Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, Wold Development will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS. 
D. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING WOLD DEVELOPMENT 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 Wold Development to 

safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography for Non-Profit and 

Community Organizations, as well as, pursue revenue for a Small Business in the USA as we 

provide commercial services for Homes and Land for sale, Places of Lodging, Golf Courses, and 

other commercial properties seeking the described services for marketing purposes over certain areas 

of the Bell County TX and the surrounding areas. 

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS and reduce 

pollution, since past aerial photography required large manned 20 aircraft for extended periods of 

time. Notably, the benefits of Wold Development’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

will be realized without implicating any privacy issues. 

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

The DJI Phantom 3 UA 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 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 (as outlined in Exhibit D). 

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 UA 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 UAS. 

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly 

benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional 

aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to 

the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video 

and photography, while burning approximately 20-30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI 

Phantom 3 UA, 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 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and property in 

the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, 

will be substantially reduced or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members 

located onboard the aircraft, the DJI Phantom 3 UA (weighing approximately 2 pounds 11 ounces and 6 

pounds 7.5 ounces respectively, at their maximum gross weights with lengths of 16 inches and 17.3 

inches respectively, widths of 16 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 UAS Will 

Benefit Non-Profit and Community Organizations. 
As stated earlier in this petition, Wold Development provides free services to Non- Profit and Community 

Organization that normally could not afford to have their event or site professionally photographed. There 

the Oneida community and surrounding area benefits.

4. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations with The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will 

Benefit The Economy. 

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 3 is also an economical alternative to using 

manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, 20 operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

will allow United States based companies, like Wold Development, 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 UAS is one such technology that not only allows companies greater 

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

operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft. By operating the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, companies such 

as Wold Development, 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 UAS, provides a 

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

allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United 

States and abroad. 

5. There Are No Privacy Issues. 

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

Development proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. 

Specifically, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., 

the Wold Development Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 

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 Wold Development Seeks Exemption. 

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 3 UA Meet The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and 

Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333. 

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

aircraft and its operation, Wold Development operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet the 

conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 

14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without 

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

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

FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part: 

(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days 

after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine if certain 

unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of

the plan and rulemaking required by section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by section 334 

of this Act. 

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

the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

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

operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of 

sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to 

national security; and 

(2) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under 

section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft 

20 systems identified under paragraph (1). 

(c) Requirements for Safe Operation.--If the Secretary determines under this section that certain 

unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall 

establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system. 

In seeking this exemption, Wold Development submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can operate 

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

DJI Phantom 3 UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations. 

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics. 

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS does 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 UAS. 

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is set forth by the DJI Phantom 3 

Specifications and Data Sheet, attached hereto as Exhibit A. 
ii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigation Modes Enable The UAS To 

Remain Within A Defined Operational Area. 

The DJI Phantom 3 UAS 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 UAS is provided at 

pages 25-32 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B. 

iii. The DJI Phantom 3 UAS Are Designed For Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In 

The Event Of Loss Of The Control Link Or Navigation. 

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UA will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds 

or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 3 UA does not reacquire control link data from the 

GCS, the UA will assume that the Control Link is lost and the UA will return to the home position 

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

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are set forth at pages 27 

through 28 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual, attached hereto as Exhibit B. 

iv. The DJI Phantom 3 GCS And Its Operation. 

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

control software is provided at pages 32 through 43 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual. DJI Phantom 

3 User Manual is attached hereto as Exhibit B. 

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Are Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A 

Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer. 

Wold Development 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 UAS. Additionally, a 

safety observer will assist all pilots during flight time. And the guidelines exhibited in D, will be 

followed at all-times ensuring the safety of all involved. 

c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating 

Limitations. 

In seeking this exemption, proposes to commercially operate DJI Phantom 3 UAS for the special 

purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of Oneida County and 

surrounding areas, 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 Unmanned Aircraft System. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a 

new petition or a petition to amend this grant. 

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of 

aerial video and photography. 

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

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above ground level (AGL), as 

indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents unless a special request is made and 

approved by ATC. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 

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

the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as 

specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued airman medical certificate. 
6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted. 

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

requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The SO and PIC must be able to 

communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight 

operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation 

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

in the operating documents. 

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

air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or 

other instruments. 

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

and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions 

and limitations contained in the grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating 

documents, the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence and 

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

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

responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator 

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

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

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

petition for amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may 

be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents. 

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

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

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

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

inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft records. 

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

characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. 

The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records. 

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

components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating 

documents. 

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

replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. 

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

accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of 

replacement/overhaul component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in 

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

UAS to service. 
15. Each UASs operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer Safety Bulletins. 

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

against discrepancies discovered between inspections. 

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current third- class medical 

certificate. 

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

criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the 

UAS will be operated under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

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

flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the 

purpose2s3of training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, 

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

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

considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from 

nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 

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

19.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at 

night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of 

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

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

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

management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required 

by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available 

to the Administrator upon request. 

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

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

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre- determined 

location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating 

documents. 

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

with the operating documents. 

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

conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and 

land the UA with 25% battery power remaining. 

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

Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. This COA 
will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in 

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

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

level and potential transponder requirements. 

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

registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 47, and have identification (N- Number) markings in 

accordance with 14 C.F.R. part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 

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

UA m24ust 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. Wold Development abides and enforces the safety checklist to as exhibited in section D to ensure 

that we provide safety for everyone in and near to the site. 

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

activities at all times. 

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

32. Flight operations must be conducted at least 400 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons 

other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures 

unless: 

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA 

and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons 

remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such 

protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; 

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such 

vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of 

the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, 

and; 

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue 

hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a). 

33. 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. 

34. 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. 

Wold Development 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 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 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including 

evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, 

vehicles and structures. Considering Wold Development 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 UAS, Wold Development submits 

that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not 

correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Wold Development 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). Wold Development will not allow any 

PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum 

flight-hour requirements or the DJI Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC 

is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, 

including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, 

vessels, vehicles and structures. Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a 

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

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

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

must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). 

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

obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during 

Wold Development 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 

27 Distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. 

Accordingly, Wold Development will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the 

DJI Phantom 3 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 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. 

Wold Development requires a tight set of rules that follow best practices and FAA requirements and 

guidelines (Exhibit D). 

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

every flight, plus Wold Development also requires the safety checklist in Exhibit D that ensures that 

the DJI Phantom 3 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. 

As outlined in Exhibit D, Wold Development fly’s only under a very set rules. We believe these rules 

include and go beyond current FAA guidelines. Therefore, the equivalent level of safety established 

by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 3 UA will

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

downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude 

information, combined with Wold Development operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UA within visual 

line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. 

The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to 

each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the 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 UAS; (2) the 

limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. 

Accordingly, Wold Development will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI 

Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total 

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

to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes. 
Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS; the 

limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure 

an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be 

ensured as the DJI Phantom 3 UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when 

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

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

low battery level, the DJI Phantom Vision+ UAS will descend and land automatically. Significantly, 

previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not 

adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are 

considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at less than the minimums 

prescribed in Section 91.151, including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA 

has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all 

material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 

11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 

11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). 

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. 

In seeking this exemption, Wold Development 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 Wold Development will 

use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS 

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

Development Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction 

Manual). Furthermore, Wold Development will document and maintain all maintenance records for 

the DJI Phantom 3 UAS. Since the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the 

operating documents, Wold Development 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 User Manuals are 

attached hereto as Exhibit B; a copy of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto 

as Exhibit C. Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Wold 

Development 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 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and 

maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the 

FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) 

establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating 

limitations of the UAS are considered. In consideration of Wold Development proposed operating 

limitations, the operating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, Wold 

Development submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 

nd (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) a 31 32 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). 

In additional 350 Sky Vision fly only under a tight set of rules which can be found in Exhibit D, 

which ensure the safest operation under any foreseen circumstance. 
7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation. 

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 

C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, Wold Development requests that the FAA prescribe 

special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which contain such safety 

standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that 

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

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

conditions will permit safe operation of the UAS for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video 

and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 

sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or 

the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such 

UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be 

established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS. Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe 

special conditions pursuant to 14 33 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, since 

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

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

Conditions, states the following: 

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

appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller because of a novel or unusual 

design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and 

amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of 

this chapter and contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA 

finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations. 

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16. 

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

special conditions for Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS, which contain 

such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent 

to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 

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

F. A SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER, stating: 

The Rules From Which Wold Development Seeks Exemption: 

Wold Development seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 

91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). 

A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption Wold Development Seeks: 

This exemption will permit Wold Development 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 Wold 

Development 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, Wold Development 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, 
Wold Development will operate the DJI Phantom 3 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, Wold Development seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. 

§ 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (FMRA), which will 

permit safe operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, 

for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over Bell County, TX and 

surrounding area. 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 Wold Development to safely, efficiently, and economically 

operate the DJI Phantom 3 UAS commercially within the NAS. WHEREFORE , in accordance with 

the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012, Section 333, 

Wold Development 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)(l) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Leading Edge to operate the DJI 

Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over 

certain areas of the United States. 

Dated: December 8, 2015

Respectfully submitted, Wold Development

Wold Development, LLC

Benjamin Wold

6434 E Military Rd

Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Email: nwold53@gmail.com
EXHIBITS: 

A – DJI Phantom 3 Specifications Data Sheet 

B – DJI Phantom 3 Manufacturer’s User Manual (see attached file)

C – Monthly Maintenance Log

D – Wold Development On-Site Safety Checklist 
EXHIBIT – A 

DJI PHANTOM 3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 

Wold Development 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. 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) Aircraft 

Supported Battery: DJI 5200mAh LiPo 

Battery 

Weight (Battery & Propellers included): 

1242g 

Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly): Vertical:

0.8m; Horizontal: 2.5m 

Max Yaw Angular Velocity; 200°/s 

Max Tiltable Angle: 35° 

Max Ascent / Descent Speed: Ascent: 

6m/s; Descent: 2m/s 

Max Flight Speed: 15m/s (Not 

Recommended) 

Diagonal motor-motor distance: 350mm 

Remote Control Operating Frequency: 5.728 GHz-5.85 

GHz 

Communication Distance (open area): CE 

Compliance: 400m; FCC Compliance: 

800m 

Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER): -93dBm 

Transmitter Power: CE Compliance: 

25mW; FCC Compliance: 100mW 

Working Voltage: 120 mA@3.7V 

Built-in LiPo Battery Working 

Current/Capacity: 3.7V, 2000mAh 

Range Extender Operating Frequency: 2412-2462MHz 

Communication Distance (open area): 

500-700m Transmitter Power: 20dBm 

Power Consumption: 2W 
EXHIBIT – B

DJI Phantom 3 Professional User Manual

https://dl.djicdn.com/downloads/phantom_3/en/Phantom_3_Professional_User_Manual__V1.6.

pdf
EXHIBIT – C

Wold Development LLC

On-Site Safety Checklist

Pre-flight 

-off required back of form) 

zone sign calling for 50’ parameter 

Flight Set-up 

signs of damage 

-Fi are green 

GPS lights (Solid Green slow flashing) 

° both Horizontal and Vertically to ensure lock 

Flight 

he landing area within 20% of battery life 

Post-Flight 

n off Battery on Craft first, then the Remote Controller 
On-Site Safety Checklist 

Sponsor / Owner Sign-off 

As the sponsor or owner of this engagement you understand that Wold Development LLC operates 

under the following rules and obligation to ensure the public safety and privacy, and that we follow all 

FAA rules and guidelines. 

As the sponsor / owner of this engagement you agree to the following through your initial of each item 

and signature at the bottom of this page. 

Eagle Eyes Services LLC has advised you as to the following: Initial: _____

400’ of the current launch elevation ______ 

’ Launch/Landing parameter cannot be established ______ 

-site activity occurs that presents a security concern ______ 

Privacy Concerns: 

Safety: 

agree to assist in the limiting of people within the launch/landing area ______ 

Safety Checklist Signatures 

Sponsor / Owner

Name: ______________________________

Address: ____________________________

Phone: ______________________________

Email: ______________________________

Signature: ___________________________

Wold Development LLC 

Nick Wold

6434 E Military Rd Unit 101

Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Signed: _________________________________
EXHIBIT – D

Wold Development LLC

Maintenance Log

EVERY WEEK or EVER 10 FLIGHTS, WHICHEVER SOONER

1. Visual inspection of shell and other plastic components for cracking/damage (landing 

skids, camera mounting plates, etc.)

2. Check tightness of motor retaining screws and shell retaining screws (both 2.0mm hex)

3. Clean data spring pins and battery contact pads with alcohol and swab or proprietary 

electrical contact cleaner and cycle spring pins several times to check for spring 

weakness and full unimpeded travel;

4. Plug in to Vision Assistant and check tx & IMU calibration state and all battery cells have 

good balance (repeat for all batteries);

5. Check batteries for number of cycles and discharge per DJI recommendations if 

required.

EVERY MONTH or EVERY 40 FLIGHTS, WHICHEVER SOONER

1. Remove upper shell and check state of all wiring - plugs fully seated, condition of all 

solder joints, condition of visible circuit boards and wiring runs, internals generally clean 

and no debris/loose items.

2. Remove motors and check security of E clips, condition of bearings and general visual 

inspection.

3. Remove rubber cover from Vision camera servo mounting point and check tightness of 

the small cross-head screw.

Date Inspection Notes Inspected By