UNITED STATES OF AMERI CA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

WASHI NGTON, DC

Regulatory

Docket No. _______________

**IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF :**  **FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF**

**TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1),**  **91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF**  **DJI PHANTOM 3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS** 

**PURSUANT TO SEC TION 333 OF**  **THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012**

**(PUBLIC LAW 112 -**  **95)**

Submitted on September 5 , 2015 John P Sorensen 2744 Crest Ridge Drive New Braunfels, Texas 78132 Tel: ( 210 ) 316

- 66792 **TABLE OF CONTENTS** Page GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS...................................................................................3 SUMMARY...................................................................................................................... .....4 IN TRODUCTI ON AND INTERESTS OF PETITIONER............

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

...................... ........5 BASI S FOR PETITION........................

........................................... ............................... ......5 NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER..............................

......................... .....8 THE SPECIFI C SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHI CH JOHN P SORENSEN S EEKS EXEMPTI ON..............

............. ... ............. ............................8 THE EXTENT OF RELIEF JOHN P SORENSEN SEEKS AND THE REASON JOHN P SORENSEN SEEKS THE RELIEF...........

............ . .....12 THE REASONS WHY GRANTING JOHN P SORENSEN REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC IN TEREST ...........................................

.... ...... ...15 THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTI ON WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY............................................ ..............................18 SUMMARY T HAT CAN BE PUBLISHED INTHE FEDERAL REGI STER......32 ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT JOHN P SORENSEN REQUEST...

......... ...33 CONCLUSION.................................................................................

..... ..............................33 APPENDI CES

.......................................................................... ............................... ............ 353 **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 Sy stem NOTAM Notice to Airman PI C 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 Sy stem VFR Visual Flight Rules VLOS Visual L ine of Site VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing4 **SUMMARY** John P Sorensen seeks exemption from the re quirements 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 Sy stem pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA ). This exemption will permit John P Sorensen to operate an Unmanned Aircraft S ys tem (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photograph y of construction sites, real estate, special events, film sets, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.

**INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER** John P Sorensen provides his clients with expertise and knowledge in advanced technologies and solutions to increase efficiency , productivity and effectiveness. John P Sorensen also provi des his clients with the highest quality digital content for use in their commercial, personal, and non

- profit multimedia projects. John P Sorensen has over 6 ye ars of professional experience in photograph y and videotaping. I have over 3 years recreational/hobb y experience in all aspects of aerial video an d photography . The objective of John P Sorensen is aerial video and photography operation s and to provide high quality imaging for a variety

of comme rcial, publi c, and residential uses, targeting: Aerial inspections of public and private structures. Search and Rescue operations Aerial photograph y

/videography

of houses / residential and comm ercial buildings Aerial event photograph y/videograph y Aerial event filming Aerial Appraisals Real Estate Marketing Insurance Inspections of Home and Property Commercial Advertising Video and Photography Real Estate Photograph y and Videograph y FREE services offered to our community , firefighter and state officials5 Wildlife management and Nature Monitoring

**BACKGROUND** Unmanned Aircraft Sy stems: DJIPhantom 3 UAS John P Sorensen seeks an exemption to operate DJI s ys tems for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJ I Phantom 3 is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone sy stems. Th e DJ I Phantom 3 has a maximum gross weight of 2 pounds 13.1 ounces, a length of 16.2 inches, width of 16.6 inches, height of 10.5 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately

31.1 knots. The DJ I Phantom 3 UA is equipped with four main rotors ; Driven by

L ithium Poly

mer battery

powered electric motors. The DJ I Phantom 3 UA that will be operated b y John P Sorensen and 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, John P Sorensen , 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 , hereb y petitions the Administrator to commercial ly operate the DJIPhantom 3 UAS in the National Airspace S ys tem (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, John P Sorensen’s operation of DJIPhantom 3 UAS meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will not require an airworthines s certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.6 Accordingl y, John P Sorensen 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 on ly appl y to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. John P Sorensen submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. John P Sorensen will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or pr eventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) ). Furthermore, John P Sorensen will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJIPhantom 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 John P Sorensen to the extent necessary to allo w a Pilot in Command (PI C) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, b y meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PI C is able to safely operate the DJIPh antom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency

maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. John P Sorensen seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircra ft airworthiness , because the DJIPhantom 3 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, John P Sorensen submits that he will ensure that the DJIPhantom 3 UAS are in an airworth y condition, prio r to every flight, by determining that the UASs are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e.,7

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJIPhantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight. John P Sorensen also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings , as the DJIPhantom 3 UAS will not have a ty pical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJIPhantom 3 UAS will be provided to the PI C 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 John P Sorensen’s operation of DJIPhantom 3 UAS within vis ual line of sight, at or below 4 00 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. Additionally , John P Sorensen seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions

. John P Sorensen submits that safety will not be affected by

operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fl y 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, John P Sorensen 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:8

John P Sorensen 2744 Crest Ridge Drive New Braunfels, Texas 78132 Tel: ( 210 ) 316

- 6679 Email: mesquite2@peoplepc.com **B. The Spec ific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From**  **Which John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption.**  **1. John P Sorensen**  **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 (PI C) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or propert y for compensation or hire; nor may

that pers on, 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 an y business or emplo ym ent if

— (1) The flight is only

incidental to that business or employ ment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property

for compensation or hire.
**2. John P Sorensen**  **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. John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121.**  Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , subsection (a), states the following, in part: (a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, b y reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating

--9 (1) Below 18,000 feet MSL , to
-- (i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft; (ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a) (1) (i) of this section, the current reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or (iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure. **4. John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption From The Require ments 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 weat her 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. John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).**  Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following: Each owner or operator of an aircraft

— (a) Shall have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.] **6. John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of**  **Section 91.407(a)**  **(1)** Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preve ntive 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

--10 (1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter [.] **7. John P Sorensen**  **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 servi ce b y 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. John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.417(a) And 91.4**  **17(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 s pecified 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 th e airframe) and each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include

-- (i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and (ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and (iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service. (2) Records containing the following information:11 (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 cur

rent 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 pre scribed b y § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currentl y installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances. (b) The owner or operator shall retain the following records for the periods prescribed: (1) The records s pecified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded b y other work or for 1 ye ar 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**  **John P Sorensen Seeks And The Reason**  **John P Sorensen Seeks The Relief.**  **1. Extent Of Relief John P Sorensen**  **Seeks And The Reason John P Sorensen**  **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 PI C holding a12

private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire. This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may , for compensation or hire, act as PI C of an aircraft in connection with an y business or emplo ym ent if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employ

ment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or propert y for compensation or hire. As set forth more full y below, John P Sorensen submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJIPhantom 3 UAS unless that PI C has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, demonstrating that the PI C is able to safe ly operate either the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency

maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures. Further, John P Sorensen submits that all flights of the DJIPhantom 3 UAS , conducted b y the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to John P Sorensen’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or propert y for compensation or hire. **2. Extent Of Relief John P Sorensen**  **Seeks And The Reason John P Sorensen** 

**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 John P Sorense n to determine that the DJIPhantom 3 UAS are in airworth y condition prior to every flight b y ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with13

the operating documents (i.e., the John P Sorensen Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJIPhantom 3 Instruction Manual). John P Sorensen seeks the requested relief because the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, John P Sorensen will ensure that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e ., Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJIPhantom 3 Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as st ated in the conditions and limitations below. **3. Extent Of Relief John P Sorensen**  **Seeks And The Reason John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.** Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , may be required to allow flight operations of the DJIPhantom 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 PI C at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that an y altitude information concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), John P Sorensen seeks the requested relief because the DJ I 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. 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 st ated below. As more full y set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJIPhantom 3 UA are equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automaticall y ensures that a ground level pressure setting will14

be established prior to each flight, and provides the PI C with altitude information of the UA on the heads

- up display of the GCS. **4. Extent Of Relief John P Sorensen**  **Seeks And The Reason John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).** Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions , is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJ I Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visua l 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. John P Sorensen seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJ I Phantom 3 UAs will severel y constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that John P Sorensen proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition. Signific antl y, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS , the DJ I Phantom 3 operating documents, and John P Sorensen proposed operating limitations, ensure that John P Sorensen will safely operate the battery

powered DJ I Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fl y for a total duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fl y aft er that for at least 4.5 minutes. **5. Extent Of Relief**  **John P Sorensen Seeks And The Reason**  **John P Sorensen 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 appl y to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, John P Sorensen requests relief15

from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 3 UAS do not require airworthiness cert ificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 3 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingl y, John P Sorensen will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or pre ventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., John P Sorensen’s Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Lo g, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, John P Sorensen will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS

. **D. The Reasons Why Granting John P Sorensen**  **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 b y allowing John P Sorensen to safel y, efficiently , and economically perform aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, special events, film sets, and landscape over certain areas of the United States. Additionally , use of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notabl y, the benefits of John P Sorensen proposed operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS will be realized without implicating an y privacy

issues. **1. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.** The DJ I Phantom 3 UAs are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned ai rcraft 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 DJ I Phantom 3 UAS would reduce the amount of manned16

aircraft in the NAS, reduce nois e and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground. Furthermore, b y reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused b y arriving and departing aircraft will b e reduced. The DJI Phantom 3 UA do not require an airport to takeoff or land. Li kewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photograph y 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 UASs, instead of manned aircraft, will greatl y 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 environmentall y conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are t ypically utilized for aerial video and photograph y, while burning ap proximately 20

- 30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJ I Phantom 3 UA , while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also elimin ates noise pollution, as the UA are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an intern al combustion engine. By using the DJ I 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 completel y eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, the17

DJI Phantom 3 UA (weighing approximately 2 pounds 13.1 ounces respectively , at its maximum gross weight with a length of 16.2 inches and width of 16.6 inches, and with no fuel on board) , has less phy sical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that typicall y conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 poun ds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons). **3. Performing Aerial Vi deo and Photography Operations w**  **ith DJI Phantom 3**  **UAS Will Benefit The Economy.**  In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will allow United States based companies /individuals , like John P Sorensen , to remain competitiv e 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 DJ I Phantom 3 UAS , companies /individuals such as John P Sorensen , 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 DJ I Phantom 3 UAS , provides a stable workforce that increases consumer18

spending; improves local, state, and fed eral tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United States and abroad. **4. There Are No Privacy Issues.** Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, John P Sorensen ’s proposed operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS will not implicate any

privacy issues. Specificall y, the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS will be operated onl y in compliance with operating documents (i.e., John P Sorensen’s Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJ I Phantom 3 In struction 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 John P Sorensen**  **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, John P Sorensen’s operation of the D JI 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 f

orth 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. Specificall y, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part:19 (a ) In General.

--Notwithstanding any oth er requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system before completion of the plan and rulemaking required by section 332 of this Act or the guidance required by section 334 of this Act. (b ) Assessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

--In making the determination under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum

-- (1 ) which types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and (2 ) whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1). (c) Requirements for Safe Operation.

--If the Secretary determines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary sh all establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system. In seeking this exemption, John P Sorensen submits that the DJI Phantom 3 UAS can operate safel y in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated b y: (a) the characteristics of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS ; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

**a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phanto**  **m 3 UAS**  **Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.**  The DJ I Phantom 3 UAS do not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability

.

**i. Technical Sp ecifications Of The**  **DJI Phantom 3 UAS**  **.**20 The technical specifications of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS are set forth b y the DJI Phantom 3 Specifications and Data Sheet, attached hereto as Exhibit A

.

**ii. The DJI Phantom 3**  **UAS Autonomous Flight And Navigat**  **ion Modes Enable The UAS**  **To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.** The DJ I Phantom 3 UAS may be operated in both manual and full y autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS is provided in the M anufacturer’s User Manual *See attached PDF File **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 L ink is lost, the DJI Phantom 3 UA will remain stationary , in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJ I Phantom 3 UA do not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAs will assume that the Control L ink is lost and the UAs will return to the home position (i.e., fail safe mode) via GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown. A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS is provided in the Manufacturer’s User Manual *See attached PDF

**iv. The DJI Phantom 3**  **GCS And Its Operatio n.**  A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJ I Phantom 3 GCS and flight control software is provided in the Manufacturer’s User Manual *See attached PDF

**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.** John P Sorensen will only utilize certificated pilots who possess a current and valid airman medical certificate to act as a pilot in command (PI C) of the DJ I Ph antom 3 UAS

. Additionally , a safety observer will assist all pilots during flight time.

**c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 3**  **UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific**  **Operating Limitations.**21 In seeking this exemption, John P Sorensen proposes to commerciall y operate DJ I Phantom 3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photograph y over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations: 1. Operations authorized by this grant of e xemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJ I Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Sy stems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a ne w 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 5 00 feet above ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents unless a special request is made and approved b y 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 PI C at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by an y device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PI C’s FAA

- issued airman medical certificate. 6. The use of first person view (FPV) b y the PI C 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 alway s maintains VL OS capability

. The SO and PI C 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 duratio n of the flight. The PI C 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 PI C with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obsta cles/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

exist s 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 precedence22 and must be followed. Otherwise, the ope rator 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 u pon 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 exe mption, 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 PI C mus t 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 UA S 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 properl y documented in the aircraft records. 11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or a lterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PI C who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records. 12. Th e 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/c omponent, 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, alt erations, 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 PI C must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a current third

- class medical certificate.23 18. The operator may

not permit any

PIC to operate unless the PI C meets the operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the abil ity to safel y 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 fl ight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated trainin g sessions. During training, proficiency , and experience

- building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PI C must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 19. UAS operations may

not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 20. The UA may

not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA

- published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Adminis trator upon request. 21. The UA may

not be operated less than 5 00 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally

from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PI C. 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 PI C must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operating documents. 24. The PI C 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 r emaining. 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 A irman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be conducted in accordance24 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, S ubpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable. 27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government overs ight 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 an y law enforcement official upon request. 29. The UA must remain clear and yi eld the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times. 30. The UAS may

not be operated b y the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PI C, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: a. Barriers or structures are present that suf ficiently 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 protectio n and are within 5 00 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 PI C h as 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 PI C, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a). 32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- access property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative wil l be obtained for each flight to be conducted.25 33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Off ice (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.** John P Sorensen 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 DJ I Phantom 3 UAS unless that PI C has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PI C is able to safely operate the DJ I 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 John P S orensen ’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements ( See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills ne cessary to safel y operate the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS, John P Sorensen submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for John P Sorensen ’s specific proposed flight operations. The FAA has previously

granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 1106 6, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). John P Sorensen will not allow any PI C to operate the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS unless that PI C has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour requirements or the DJ I26

Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PI C is able to safel y operate the DJ I 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. Specificall y, the PI C 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 PI C must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 day s (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 John P Sorensen’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows: In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi

- rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PI C 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 PI C must accomplish 3 takeof fs and landings in the preceding 90 day s (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 petitione r’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance27 with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency , and experience

- building flights can also be conducted und er the grant of exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency , and experience

- building flights the PI C is required to operate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119. Exemption No. 11138 at page 15. Accordingl y, John P Sorensen will ensure safe operations b y not allowing any PIC to operate the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS unless that PI C has demonstrated, b y meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency

requirements, that the PIC is able to safel y operate the DJ I 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.** The equivalent level of safety established b y Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every

flight John P Sorensen will ensure that the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS is in an airworth y 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 circumstance s 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 Fr om** **The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.**  The equivalent level of safety established b y Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJ I Phantom 3 UA will be provided to the PI C via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from28

the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with John P Sorensen’s operation of the DJ I 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, 1 1067, 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 equival ent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS ; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly , John P Sorensen will ensure that he will safel y operate the battery powered DJ I Phantom 3 UA during daylight hours in VFR conditio ns, 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 fl y after that for at least 4.5 minutes. Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJ I 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 b y 14 C.F.R. Sect ion 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS provide audible29

and visual warnings to the PI C at the GCS when the UAs experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery

power, an d again at approximately

10% remaining battery

power. At the criticall y low battery level, the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS will descend and land automatically

. Significantl y, previous exemptions granted b y the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversel y 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, 574 5, 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, 110 66, 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, John P Sorensen 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 John P Sorensen will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or pr eventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e. , John P Sorensen ’s , Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJ I Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, John P Sorensen will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS

.30 Since the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS will be i nspected as prescribed b y the operating documents, John P Sorensen will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A cop y of the DJ I Phantom 3 User Manuals are attached hereto as Exhibit B ; a copy of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Exhibit C

. Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversel y affect safety because John P Sorensen will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenan ce 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 maintenan ce of the DJI Phantom 3 UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log. Significantl y, previous exemptions granted b y the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 9 1.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversel y affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. In consideration of John P Sorensen ’s proposed operating limitations, the ope rating documents, and the technical aspects of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS , John P Sorensen submits that safety will not be adversel y affected b y granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously

granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066,31

11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156 , 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161). **7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.** In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions , John P Sorensen requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UASs, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UA for the limited purpose of conductin g 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 t o national security ; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS. Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the DJ I 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 featur es 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 prope ller 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.32 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 John P Sorensen’s intended operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safet y 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 John P Sorensen**  **Seeks Exemption:** John P Sorensen 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**  **John P Sorensen Seeks:**  This exemption will permit John P Sorensen 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**  **John P Sorensen’s**  **Request.** This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely

in the NAS. As such, John P Sorensen’s request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above.33 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, John P Sorensen will operate the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS safel y 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, John P Sorensen seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS commerciall y, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose o f conducting aerial video and photograph y over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, b y allowing John P Sorensen to safel y, efficiently , and economically operate the DJ I Phantom 3 UAS commerciall y within the NAS. **WHEREFORE** , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, John P Sorensen respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Section s 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit John P Sorensen to operate the DJ I34

Phantom 3 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography
over certain areas of the United States.

Date d: September 5 , 2015

Respectfully submitted, John P Sorensen

_________________________ 2744 Crest Ridge Drive New Braunfels, Texas 78132 Tel: ( 210 ) 316

- 6679

Appendic es : A

– DJ I Phantom 3 Technical Specifications B

– DJ I Phantom 3 Monthly Maintenance Log35 APPENDIX

– A **DJI PHANTOM 3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS**  John P Sorensen 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/t ablet devices) 

### Aircraft **WEIGHT (INCLUDING BA TTERY AND PROPELLERS**  **)**

1280 g **DIAGONAL SIZE (INCLU DING PROPELLERS)**  590 mm **MAX ASCENT SPEED** 5 m/s **MAX DESCENT SPEED** 3 m/s **HOVER ACCURACY**

 Vertical: +/

- 0.1 m

(when Vision Positioning is active) or +/

- 0.5 m

 Horizontal: +/

- 1.5 m **MAX SPEED** 16 m/s (ATTI mode, no wind) **MAX ALTITUDE ABOVE S EA LEVEL**  6000 m **OPERATING TEMPERATUR E**  0°C to 40°C **GPS MODE** GPS/GLONASS 

### Camera **SENSOR**

Sony EXMOR 1/2.3” Effective pixels: 12.4 M (total pixels: 12.76 M) **LENS** FOV 94° 20 mm (35 mm format equivalent) f/2.8, focus at ∞36 **ISO RANGE** 100

- 3200 (video) 100

- 1600 (photo) **SHUTTER SPEED** 8s

- 1/8000s **IMAGE MAX SIZE** 4000 x 3000 **STILL PHOTOGRAPHY MO DES** 

 Single Shot

 Burst Shooting: 3/5/7 shots

 Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 3/5

 Bracketed Frames at 0.7EV Bias

 Time - lapse **VIDEO RECORDING MODE S**  

### Phantom 3 Professional

 UHD: 4096x2160p 24/25, 3840x2160p 24/25/30

 FHD: 1920x1080p 24/25/30/48/50/60

 HD: 1280x720p 24/25/30/48/50/60 

### Phantom 3 Advanced

 FHD: 1920x1080p 24/25/30/48/50/60

 HD: 1280x720p 24/25/30/4 8/50/60 **SUPPORTED SD CARD TY PES**  Micro SD Max capacity: 64 GB. Class 10 or UHS

- 1 rating required **MAX BITRATE OF VIDEO STORAGE**  

### Phantom 3 Professional 60 Mbps 

### Phantom 3 Advanced 40 Mbps37 **SUPPORTED FILE FORMA TS** 

 FAT32/exFAT

 Photo: JPEG, DNG

 Video: MP4, MOV (MPEG

- 4 AVC/H.264) **OPERATING TEMPERATUR E**  0°C to 40°C 

### Gim bal **CONTROLLABLE RANGE**

Pitch

- 90° to +30° **STABILIZATION** 3

- axis (pitch, roll, yaw)



### Vision Positioning **MAX VELOCITY**

Less than 8 m/s (when 2 m above ground) **ALTITUDE RANGE** 30 cm

- 300 cm **OPERATING RANGE** 30 cm

- 300 cm **OPERATING ENVIRONMEN T**  Surface with clear pattern and adequate lighting (Lux > 15)



### Remote Controller **OPERATING FREQUENCY**

2.400 GHz

- 2.483 GHz **MAX DISTANCE** 2000m (outdoors and unobstructed) **VIDEO OUTPUT PORT** USB **OPERATING TEMPERATUR E**  0°C

- 40°C **BATTERY** 6000 mAh LiPo 2S **MOBILE DEVICE HOLDER** For tablet or phone **RECEIVER SENSITIVITY (1%PER)** 38 - 101 dBm ±2 dBm **TRANSMITTER POWER (E IRP)** 

 FCC: 20 dBm

 CE: 16 dBm **WORKING VOLTAGE** 1.2 A @7.4 V



### Battery Charger **VOLTAGE**

17.4 V **RATED POWER** 

### Phantom 3 Professional

 100 W 

### Phantom 3 Advanced

 57 W



### Intelligent Flight Battery **CAPACITY**

4480 mAh **VOLTAGE** 15.2 V **BATTERY TYPE** LiPo 4S **ENERGY** 68 Wh **NET WEIGHT** 365 g **MAX FLIGHT TIME** Approximately 23 minutes **OPERATING TEMPERATUR E** 

- 10°C to 40°C **MAX CHARGING POWER**39 100 W



### App / Live View **MOBILE APP**

DJI Pilot **EIRP** 100m W **LIVE VIEW WORKING FR EQUENCY**  2.4GHz ISM **LIVE VIEW QUALITY** 720P @ 30fps (depending on conditions and mobile device) **LATENCY** 220m s (depending on conditions and mobile device) **REQUIRED OPERATING S YSTEMS** 

 iOS 8.0 or later

 An droid 4.1.2 or later **RECOMMENDED DEVICES**

 iOS: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad Air Wi

- Fi + Cellular, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 2 Wi

- Fi + Cellular, iPad Air 2, iPad Air 2 Wi

- Fi + Cellular, iPad mini 3, and iPad mini 3 Wi

- Fi + Cellular. This app is optimized for iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus

 Android: Samsung S5, Note 3, Sony Xperia Z3, Google Nexus 7 II, Google Nexus 9, Mi 3, Nubia Z7 mini

 *Support for additional Android devices available as testing and development continues40 APPENDIX

– B Monthly Maintenance Log
UAS #_____ Date Issue Maintenance Initials Performed Firmware Check Frame Engines Propellers Camera Gimbal Landing Gear Vibration Other: