1 

# UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINIS TRATION WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No. _________

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: AKVA MEDIA GROUP

AKVA media seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b),
91.7(a), 91.121, 9 1.151(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 (DJI Phantom 3, Inspire 1) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit The AKVA MEDIA GROUP to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of
construction sites, residential and commercial real estate, civil landscapes and

events over certain areas of the United States.

AKVA MEDIA

208 N Louisa St
Boise, ID 83712

540

- 915

- 3122

www.akvamedia.com2 **TABLE OF CONTENTS**

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

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

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

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

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

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

............ ...................................... 6

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH AK/VA MEDIA LLC SEEKS

EX EMPTION........................................

........ ................................... ... ............... ....... 7

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF AK/VA MEDIA LLC SEEKS AND THE REASON AK/VA

MEDIA LLC SEEKS THE R ELIEF...................

................... ......... ....... . . . .. ... 1 0

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’S REQUEST WOULD BE IN THE

PUBLIC INTEREST ...................................

............ .................. .......................... .1 2

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION TO AK/VA MEDIA LLC WOULD

NOT ADVE RSELY AFFECT SAFETY.................................

......... ................ .... 1 4

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

.......... .. . .. 25

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS A VAILABLE TO

SUPPORT AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’S R EQUEST...

.......................................... . . ... 25

C ONCLUSION............................................................................................................

. ........ 2 5

APPENDICES...............................................................

. ......................... 263 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

A TC 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 Modernizatio n and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)

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 Landing4 **SUMMARY**

AK/VA MEDIA LLC hereafter referred to as AK/VA MEDIA 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 ( DJI Phantom 3 ) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit AK/VA MEDIA LLC to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of construction sites, residential and com mercial real estate, civil landscape s and events over certain areas of the United States

.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

AKVA Media provides clients (which include private sector businesses and non

- profits, along with local

state an d federal agencies) with expertise and knowledge in video and multimedia marketing, advertising, public relations and training using advanced technologies and solutions. AKVA Media has worked on many productions in all types of locations with a perfect client and em ployee safety

record. In the past we have supplied our clients aerial video and photography using commercial aircraft. The objective of AKVA Media and our Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI Phantom 3 , Inspire 1 Pro ) aerial operations is t o provide a more affor dable ,high

- quality production system for a variety

of governmental, commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting the following:

• Construction sites before and after

• Appraisals

• Real

- estate marketing

• Economic development

• Civic landmarks

• Special event coverage

• Private and governmental training5 **BACKGROUND**

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 3

, UAS

AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks an exemption to operate DJI system s for compensation or hire

within the NAS. Specifically, AK/VA ME DIA LLC wishes to operate the DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro. The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro is 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 2.8 lb. while having a diagonal dimension of 23.2” , a maximum speed of approximately 16.4’fps and a maximum flying height of 400'

. The DJI Inspire 1 has a maximum gross weight of 6 poun ds 7.5 ounces, a length of 17.3 inches, width of 17.7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 42 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered ele ctric

motors.

The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro that will be operated by AK/VA MEDIA LLC will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft , as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration , and marked in accordanc e with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking

.

**BASIS FOR PETITION**

Petitioner, AK/VA MEDIA LLC , pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) , Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems , hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro

, UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirement s 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 operat ion, AK/VA MEDIA LLC 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, AK/VA MEDIA LLC requests relief from Se ctions 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.

AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. AK/VA MEDIA LLC will use experienced personnel or technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the ope rating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log,6 and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will document and

maintain all maintenance records for The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS.

Relief from certain requirements o f Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges

and limitations: Pilot in command , is requested by AK/VA MEDIA LLC to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as

an a irman 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 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness

, because The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS do not require an airwo rthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that they will ensure that The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the U AS 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.

AK/VA MEDIA LLC also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91. 121, entitled Altimeter Settings , as The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will be provided to the PIC via Glob al 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 AK/VA MEDIA

LLC ’s operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 4 00 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121.

Additionally, AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel req uirements for flight in VFR conditions

. AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that safety will not be affected by operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1

Pro UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR) , with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 23 minutes

. Battery power indicators are also able to show exactly how much battery power is left, as well as how much time is needed to return safely back to point of take off.

In a ccordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, AK/VA MEDIA LLC provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:7 **A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.** 

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

Travis Durtschi

Pre sident
AK/VA MEDIA LLC
208 N Louisa St Bosie, ID 83712

907

- 382

- 0092 akvamedia@gmail.com

**B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption.**

**1.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a)**

**And (b).** 

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

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

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an ai rcraft 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.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).**

Secti on 91.7, entitled C ivil aircraft airworthiness , subsection (a), states the following:

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

**3.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121.**

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

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating

--
(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to

--
(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;8 (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**

**.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).**

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

(b), states the following:

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR condi tions 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.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).** 

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required , subsection (a), states the following: Each owner or operator of an aircraft

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

between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]

**6.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of** Section 91.407(a)(1)

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration

, subsection (a)(1), states the following:

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless

--
(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter[.]

**7.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).** 

Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), s tates 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; or9 (2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.

**8.** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.417(a)**  **And 91.417(b).**

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

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the follo wing 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, f or 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 com pletion 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:

(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 specif ied 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 airworthi ness 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.10 (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

pre scribed:

(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** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks And The Reason** AK/VA MEDIA

LLC **Seeks The Relief.**

**1. Extent Of Relief** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks And The Reason** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b).**

Relief from Sect ion 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, a nd who has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight operations for compensation or hire.

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.

As se t forth more fully below, AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight

- hour and currency requi rements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as wel l as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.11 Further, AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that all flights of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS , conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) wil l be incidental to

AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation

or hire.

**2. Extent Of Relief** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks And The Reason** AK/VA MEDIA LLC **Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).**

Relief from Section 91.7( a) entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , is requested to the extent required to allow AK/VA MEDIA LLC to determine that The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in complia nce with the operating documents (i.e., AK/VA MEDIA LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual).

AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks the requested relief because The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS do not req uire an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will ensure that The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating

documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 ) 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 AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC Seeks And The Reas**  **on AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC**

**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 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS eq uipment, 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

c ontrol (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks the requested

relief because The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local barometric pressure or field altit ude, before each flight.

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equ ivalent level of safety will be maintained since The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro 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.12 **4. Extent Of Relief AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC Seeks And The Reason**  **AK/VA MEDIA LLC**  **Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).**

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitl ed 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 d uration of 23 minutes. AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still

p hoto flight operations that AK/VA MEDIA LLC proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS

, The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro oper ating documents, and

AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that AK/VA MEDIA LLC 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 23 minutes

.

**5. Extent Of Relief AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC Seeks And The Reason**  **AK/VA MEDIA LLC**  **Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).** 

Since Sections 9 1.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, AK/VA MEDIA LLC requests relief from these

Sections because The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS do not require airworth iness certificates. As set forth more fully below, The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will use trained technicians to perf orm maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the AK/VA MEDIA LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instru ction Manual). Furthermore,

AK/VA MEDIA LLC will document and maintain all maintenance records for The DJI Phantom

3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS

.

**D. The Reasons Why Granting AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC 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 AK/VA MEDIA LLC to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, events and civic l andscape over certain areas of the United States.13 Additionally, use of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the

benefits of AK/VA M EDIA LLC ’s proposed operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

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

The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing th e 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.

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft op erating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS do not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting aeri al video and photography missions would result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

**2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of**  **The DJI Phantom 3**  **and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro**  **UAS.**

Conducting aerial acquisitions with The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollu tion generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious a lternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately 20

- 30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation

fuel. The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS , while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise pollution, as the UAS are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an internal combustion engine.

By using The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro 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 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS (weighing approximately 2 .8 pounds at their maximum gross weight with diagonal dimension of 23.2 inches , and with no fuel on board), has14 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 simi lar operations.

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI Phantom 3 and the

DJ I Inspire 1 Pro UAS Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will allow United States based companies, like AK/VA MEDIA LLC , to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental

Pr otection 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 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS, co mpanies such as AK/VA

MEDIA LLC , can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. compan ies, through commercial use of The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro 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 ord er 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,

AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s proposed operation of The DJI Phantom 3 an d the DJI Inspire 1 Pro

UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., AK/VA MEDIA

LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenan ce 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. § 91.11 9.

**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 AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC Seeks Exemption.** 

**1. Reasons Why The**  **DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro**  UA S **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, AK/VA ME DIA LLC ’s operation of The DJI Phantom 315 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro 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

follow ing, 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 sa fely 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

subs ection (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 o f 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 safe ly 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, AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS ; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

**a. Th e Specifications Of**  **The DJI Phantom 3**  **and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro** UAS **Demonstrate**

**Its Safe Characteristics.**

The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS do es not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national sec urity considering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability.

**i. Technical Specifications Of The**  **DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro**  **UAS**

**.**16 The technical specifications of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS are set forth by The DJ I Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro Use r Manual . Manuals are att ached here as Appendix A

.

**ii. The**  **DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro**  UAS **Global Positioning Modes**

**Enable The UAS To Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.** 

The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspi re 1 Pro UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS is provided at pages 11 of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro User Manual att ached hereto as Appendix A

.

**iii. The**  **DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro**  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 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS do es not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAS will assume that

the Control Link is lost and the 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 Failsaf e Functions of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro

UAS are set forth a t pages 12 through 14 of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro User Manual, attached hereto as Appendix A

.

**iv. The**  **DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro**  **GCS And Its Operation.**

A complete description of the operation and specifications of The DJI P hantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 23 through 29 of The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro User Manual. DJI Phantom 3 User Manual is att ached hereto as Appendix A

. **b. Flight Operations Of** DJI Pha ntom 3 UAS **Is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A**  **Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.**

AK/VA MEDIA LLC video production staff will be the only person s to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS . Ad ditionally, a safety

observer will assist him at all times during flight time.

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

**Limitations.**

In seeking this exemption, AK/VA MEDIA LLC proposes to commercially operate DJI P hantom

3 UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations

. 1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the follow ing aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less than 5517 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to

amend this grant.

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

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

4. The UA must be operated at an altit ude of no more than 4 00 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 pers on 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 t o 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 co ntained 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 outline d 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 the18 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 fli ght. 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 f light 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 p otential 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, i nspection, 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 com ponent 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 UAS 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. § 61.5 1(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 training19 sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flig hts, all persons not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night , as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special v isual 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 are a 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 un less (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) is sued 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 p rior 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 ex emption 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.20 27. Before conducting ope rations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements.

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

29. The UA must remain clear and yie ld the right of way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

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

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (p ersons 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 acciden t. 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 a ircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and;

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- acces s property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted.

33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation th at 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 Boar d (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.** 21 AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that the equivalent level of safety establis hed by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able t o safely operate The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels,

vehicles and structures.

Considering AK/VA ME DIA LLC ’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations

set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge requirements to those of commercial pilot requirements ( See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills

n ecessary to safely operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS, AK/VA MEDIA

LLC submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 1106 5, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

AK/VA MEDIA LLC will not allow any PIC to operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting min imum flight

- hour requirements or

The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, includin g 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 UA S 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 th e 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 AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s p roposed 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 con ducting 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 make22 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 r otorcraft 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 require ment. Training, proficiency, and experience

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

- building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance

with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to
operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS unless that PIC has de monstrated, by meeting minimum flight

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

The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintainin g appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

**3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.** 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintain ed because prior to every flight, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will ensure that The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating

documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations her ein.

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110 , 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

**4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121 Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.** 

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be ma intained because the

altitude information of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will be provided to the23 PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the f light path and altitude. This altitude information,

combined with AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1

Pro UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91. 121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation point is automatically established by the UAS at ground level.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Sec tion 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, 11 161).

**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 technic al specifications of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS ; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will ensure that it will safely operate the ba ttery powered DJI Phantom 3 UAS during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro 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 and the DJI Insp ire 1 Pro

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 c ritically low battery level, The DJI
Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro 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 tech nical 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,

1113 6, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).24 **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 exemp tion, AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that the equivalent level of safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be met because AK/VA

ME DIA LLC 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., AK/VA MEDIA LLC Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly

Maint enance Log, and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, AK/VA MEDIA LLC
will document and maintain all maintenance records for The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro UAS.

Since The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating documents, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro User Manuals are attached heret o as Appendix A and B; a copy of The

DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto as Appendix

C.

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because AK/VA MEDIA LLC will use trained technicians to perf orm maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the operating documents.

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

Sections 91 .407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log.

Significantly, previou s 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 AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s proposed operating limitations, the operating documents, and the technical aspects of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS

, AK/VA MEDIA LLC submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting ex emption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos . 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

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

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Mod ernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions

, AK/VA MEDIA LLC requests that the FAA25 prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire

1 Pro 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 re quirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without

airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS.

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS , sinc e 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 t hat 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 presc ribes 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

est ablish 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 AK/VA Media ’s intended operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS , which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91 .7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

**• A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register, stating: The** 

**Rules From Which AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC Seeks Exemption:** 

AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks exemption fro m 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).26 **A Brief Description Of The Nature Of The Exemption AK/VA MEDIA**  **LLC Seeks:** 

This exemption will permit A K/VA MEDIA LLC to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

**• Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support** 

AK/VA MEDI A LLC **’s Request.** 

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

(FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, AK/VA MEDIA LLC ’s req uest 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, o r 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, AK/VA MEDIA LLC will operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS saf ely 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, AK/VA MEDIA LLC seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and

Section 333 of the FAA Mode rnization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and photography

over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing AK/VA MEDIA LLC to saf ely, efficiently, and economically operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS commercially within the NAS.

**WHEREFORE** , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, AK/VA MED IA LLC respectfully requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit AK/VA Media to operate The DJI Phantom 3 and the DJI Inspire 1 Pro UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography

over certain areas of the United States.

Dated: De c e m ber 8 , 201527 Respectfully submitted,

Travis Durtschi
President
AK/VA MEDIA LLC
208 N Louisa St

Bo i s e, ID 83712
907

- 382

- 0092
akva media@gmail.com

Appendices :

A

– Link to DJI Phantom 3 Manual:

http://download.dji

innovations.com/downloads/phantom_2_vision_plus/en/Phantom_2_Vision_Plus_User_Manual_v1.8_en.

p df

B

– Link to DJI Inspire 1 Pro Manual:

http://download.dji

- innovations.com/downloads/inspire_1/en/Inspire_1_User_Manual_v1.4_en.pdf