November 14, 2015

Attn: U. S. Department of Transportation Docket Operations West Building Ground Floor, Room w12

- 140 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: Discovery Drones, LLC. REQUEST S AN EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF T HE 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 INSPIRE 1 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF T HE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112

- 95)

Douglass Chouinard, CEO Discovery Drones, LLC. PO BOX 531 HOWELL, MI 48844 248.496.3436 dchouinard3@yahoo.comAGL

- Above Ground Level

AOI

- Area of Interest

ATC

- Air Traffic Control Air Traffic Organization Aerial Vehicle

CFR

- Code of Federal Regulations

COA

- Certificate of Authorization

FAA

- Federal Aviation Administration

FAR

- Federal Aviation Regulation

GCS

- Ground Control Station

GPSL

- Global Positioning System Loss of Link National Airspace System Notice to Airman

PIC

- Pilot In Command

FMRA

- FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012

SO

- Safety Observer

SOP

- Standard Operating Procedures

UA

- Unmanned Aircraft

Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR

- Visual Flight Rul esVisual Line of Site

VMC

- Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL

- Vertical Takeoff and Landing

Discovery Drones, LLC. hereafter referred to as Discovery Drones, 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 Inspire 1 3) pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit D iscovery Drones, LLC. 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 Uni ted States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

Discovery Drones, LLC. has for over thirty

- five years provided their clients (which include private sector
businesses and non

- profits, along with local state and federal agencies) with expertise an d knowledge in video and multimedia marketing, advertising, public relations and training using advanced technologies and solutions. Discovery Drones, LLC. has worked on thousands of productions over the past 35 years in all types of locations with a perfe ct client and employee safety record. In the past we have supplied our clients aerial video and photography using commercial aircraft. The objective of Discovery Drones, LLC. and our Unmanned Aircraft System (DJI INSPIRE 1 aerial operations is to provide a more affordable, high

- quality production system for a variety of governmental, commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting

• Construction sites before and after

• Appraisals

• Real

- estate marketing

• Economic development

• Civic landmarks

• Special event coverage• Private and governmental training My staff has safely flown small RC electric quadcopters recreationally for approximately 2 years without incident. BACKGROUND Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Inspire 1 3, UAS Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks an exemption to operate DJI Inspire 1 system for compensation or hire within the NAS. The DJI Inspire 1 is vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Inspire 1 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 fly ing height of 400'. The DJI Inspire 1 is equipped with four main rotors; driven by Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors.

The DJI Inspire 1 that will be operated by Discovery Drones, LLC. will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 4 5, Identification and Registration Marking.



### BASIS FOR PETITION Petitioner, Discovery Drones, 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, Sp ecial Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Inspire 1 3, UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Discovery Drones, LLC. operation of D JI Inspire 1 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, Discovery Drones, LLC. requests relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1 ), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), as these sections set forth requirements for maintenance that only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate.

Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent le vel of safety will
be ensured. Discovery Drones, 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 operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire
1 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Discovery Drones, LLC. will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Inspire 1 UAS.Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by Discovery Drones, LLC. to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate d istances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness, because the
DJI Inspire 1 UAS do es not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F. R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that they will ensure that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS is in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly M aintenance Log, and DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a condition for safe flight.

Discovery Drones, LLC. also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Inspire 1 UAS w ill not have a typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 400 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Sect ion 91.121.

Additionally, Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJ I Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of approximately 23 minutes. Battery power indicators are also able to show exactly how m uch battery power is left, as well as how much time is needed to return safely back to point of take off.In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, Discovery Drones, LLC. provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:



### A. Na me And Address Of The Petitioner. The name and address of the Petitioner and point of contact is:

Douglass Chouinard CEO Discovery Drones, LLC. PO BOX 531HOWELL, MI 48844 248.496.3436 dchouinard3@yahoo.com



### B. The Specific Sections of 14 C.F.R. From Which Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks Exemption

. 1. Discovery Drones, LLC. Seeks Exemption from The Requirements of Section 61.1 13(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in relevant part:

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft.

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if

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

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

2. Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks 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. Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sec tion 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 a ltimeter that is set, when operating

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

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

(ii) If there is no station within the area prescribed in parag raph (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. Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection (b), states the following:

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 minutes.

5. Discovery Dron es, LLC. s eeks 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 subpar t 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. Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks Exemption from The Requirements Of Sectio n 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. Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks Exemption f rom The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2).

Sectio n 91.409, entitled Inspections, subsection (a), states the following: (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had

--
(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or

(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.

8. Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks Exemption f rom The Requirements Of Sections 91 .417(a) And 91.417(b).

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

(a) Except for work performed in accordance with §§ 91.411 and 91.413, each registered owner or operator shall keep the following records f or the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section:

(1) Records of the maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records of the 100

- hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved inspections, as appropriate, for each aircra ft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must
include

--
(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and

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

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for return to service.

(2) Records containing the following information:

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, an d each rotor.

(ii) The current status of life

- limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, rotor, and appliance.

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are required to be overhauled on a specified time basis

.(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained.

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directiv es (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 t he forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and appliances.

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

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until the work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the work is performed.

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained a nd 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 o f Relief Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks And The Reason Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks The Relief.

1. Extent o f Relief Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks And The Reason Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks Relief f rom Section 61.113(a) And (b).

Re lief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested to the extent necessary to allow a PIC holding a private pilot or higher level certificate, as well
as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who has met certain flight

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

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if:

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or h ire.As set forth more fully below, Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that an equivalent level of safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight

- hour and currency requirement s, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either
the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate dist ances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that all flights of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental to Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s busines s; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.



### 2. Extent Of Relief Discovery Drones, LLC. Seeks And The Reason Discovery Drones, LLC. Seeks Relief From Section 91.7(a).

Relief from Section 91.7(a) entitled Civil aircraft airwor thiness, is requested to the extent required to allow Discovery Drones, LLC. to determine that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual).

Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks the requested relief because the DJI Inspire 1 UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, Discovery Drones, LLC. will ensure that the DJI I nspire 1 UAS are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents (i.e., DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual ) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft are in condition for safe flight, as stated in the condi tions and limitations below.



### 3. Extent o f Relief Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks And The Reason Discovery Drones, 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 Inspire 1 UAS, which utilize a barometric pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). Since the FAA requires that any al titude information concerning UAS operations be reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks the requested relief because the DJI Inspire 1 UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL,
rat her than the local barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight.Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained since the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are equipped with a barometric pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level pressure setting wi ll be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with altitude information of
the UA on the heads

- up display of the GCS.



### 4. Extent Of Relief Discovery Drones, LLC. Seeks And The Reason Discovery Drones, LLC. Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, is requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under vis ual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 23 minutes. Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks the requested relief because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Inspire 1 UAS will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo flight operations that Discovery Drones, LLC. proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, the DJI Inspire 1 operati ng documents, and Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that Discovery Drones, LLC. will safely operate the battery powered DJI Inspire 1 UAS during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rule s (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 23 minutes.

5. Extent o f Relief Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks And The Reason Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks Relief from Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b).

Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, Discovery Drones, LLC. requests relief from these Sections because the
DJI Inspire 1 UAS do es not require ai rworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Inspire
1 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, Discovery Drones, LLC. will use trained technicians to perform maintenan ce, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Discovery Drones, LLC. will document and maintain all mainten ance records for the DJI Inspire 1 UAS.

D. The Reasons Why Granting Discovery Drones, LLC. r equest 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 allo wing Discovery Drones, LLC. to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of construction sites, real estate, events and civic landscape over certain areas of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will decrease congestion of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the benefits of Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s proposed operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

1. Th e Public Will Benefit from Decreased Congestion Of The NAS.

The DJI Inspire 1 UAS are battery powered and serve as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Inspire 1 UAS would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground.

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

2. The Public Will Benefit from The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI Inspire 1 UAS.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise poll ution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Inspire
1 UAS produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to the cabin
cl ass, 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 Inspire
1 UAS, while reducing the carbon footprint of aer ial 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 Inspire 1 UAS to perform aerial acquisitions, the substantial risk to life and prope rty 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 Inspi re 1 UAS (weighing approximately 2.8 pounds at their maximum gross weight with diagonal dimension of 23.2 inches, and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential forcollateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to t he manned aircraft that typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons).

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations Wit h The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial operations. As such, operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS wil l allow United States based companies, like Discovery Drones, LLC. , to remain competitive and contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel and the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions p hasing 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 Inspire 1 UAS is one such technology that not only allow s companies greater
opera tional flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft.

By operating the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, companies such as Discovery Drones, LLC. , can remain competitive and profi table, and therefore, provide greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies, through commercial use of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, provides a s table workforce that increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in the United States and abroad.

4. There Are No Privacy Issu es.

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for decades, Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s proposed operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will be oper ated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., Discovery Drones, LLC. a erial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Inspire
1 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety A t Least Equal To That Provided By The Rule From Which Discovery Drones, LLC. a eeks Exemption.1. Reasons Why The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Meet the Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333.

In consideration of the size, weigh t, speed, and limited operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordan ce 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 po se a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part:

(a) In General , n otwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of T ransportation 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 capabil ity, 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, certifi cate 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 d etermines under this section that certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system.

In seeking this exemption, Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Inspire
1 UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.a. The Specifications of The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics. The DJI Inspire 1 UAS does not create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security consi dering its size, weight, speed, and operational capability.

i. Technical Specifications of The DJI Inspire 1 UAS. The technical specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are set forth by the DJI Inspire 1 User Manual.

ii. The DJI Inspire 1 UAS Global Positio ning Modes Enable The UAS to Remain Within A Defined Operational Area.

The DJI Inspire 1 UAS may be operated in both manual and global positioning flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS is provide d at pages 11 of the DJI Inspire 1 User Manual attached hereto as Appendix A.

iii. The DJI Inspire 1 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 Inspire 1 UAS will remain stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS does 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 Failsafe Functions of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS are set forth at pages 12 through 14 of the DJI Inspire 1 User Manual, attached hereto as Append ix A.

iv. The DJI Inspire 1 GCS and Its Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 23 through 29 of the DJI Inspire 1 User Manual. DJI Inspire 1 User Manual is attached hereto as Appendix A.

b. Flight Operations of DJI Inspire 1 UAS Is Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer.

Discovery Drones, LLC. video production staff will be the only persons to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS. Additionally, a safety observer will assist him at all times during flight time.

c. Flights of DJI Inspire 1 UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant to Specific Operating Limitations.In seeking this exemption, Discover y Drones, LLC. proposes to commercially operate DJI Inspire 1 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 thi s grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UAS weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Inspire 1 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will r equire a new petition or a petition to amend this grant.
2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of aerial video and photography. 3. The UAS may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 20 knots.
4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 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 fee t 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 certif icate. 6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not permitted.
7. O perations may 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 a nd PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents. 8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments. 9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the
conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the proced ures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator mu st also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If theoperator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then the operator mu st 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 f or safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the aircraft
records.
11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operati on or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records.
12. The pre

- flight inspection must account for al l potential discrepancies, e.g. inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant sections of the operating
documents. 13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, in spection, 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 componen t 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 manufact urer 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 t hird

- 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 operate d under the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualification flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b). Flights f or the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights, all person s not essential for flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 91.119. 19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a
current FAA

- published aeronautical chart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon request.
21. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 fe et horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.
22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre

- determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in a ccordance with the operating documents. 23. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.
24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast wea ther 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. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the
UA m ust comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 26. 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 an y time the UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.
27. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and
activities at all times. 28. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.

1) Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: a) Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situ ation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or; b) The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present an undue hazard, and; 1) Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or e ssential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119(a).

29. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled

- access property with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from la nd owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted. 30. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA mu st be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI I nspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and ma intaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and
structures.

Considering Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s proposed area of operations, and the operating limitations set forth

- above; the parallel nature of private pilot aeronautical knowledge req uirements to those of commercial pilot requirements (See Exemption No. 11062); and the airmanship skills necessary to safely operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially cer tificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

Discovery Drones, LLC. will not allow any PIC to opera te the DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour requirements or the DJI Inspire 1 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent
with this e xemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes).

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of safety during Di scovery Drones, LLC. ’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows:In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA r equired that prior to conducting operations for the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS pilot with a multi

- rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operat ions 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 th e total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight

hour requirements in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations w ould satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience

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

building flights the PIC is requir ed to operate the UA with appropriate distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, Discovery Drones, LLC. will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to operate the
DJI Inspire 1 UAS unless that PIC h as demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight

- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distance s from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

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

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to eve ry flight, Discovery Drones, LLC. will ensure that the DJI Inspire 1 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations
herein.

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

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

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because the altitude information of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will be provided to the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This altitude information, combined with Di scovery Drones, LLC. ’s operation of the
DJI Inspire 1 UAS within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by GPS equipment installed
onboard the ai rcraft. 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 Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

5. Reasons Why an Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not A dversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight ope rations; and (3) the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, Discovery Drones, LLC. will ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Inspire 1 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 Inspire 1 UAS; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safe ty established by 14 C.F.R. Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Inspire 1 UAS provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warni ng occurring at approximately 30 % remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will descend and land automatically.Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, in cluding Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151 specific to UAS, in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417 (a) & (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, Discovery Drones, 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 Discovery Drones, LLC. will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the o perating documents (i.e., DJI Inspire 1 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, Discovery Drones, LLC. will document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Inspire 1 UAS.

Since the DJI Inspire 1 UAS will be inspected as prescribed by the operating docum ents, Discovery Drones, LLC. will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2).

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because Discovery Drones, LLC. will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the

m ethods, 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 Inspire 1 UA S will be performed by trained technicians. Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS are considered.In consideration of Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s proposed operating limitations, the operating document s, and the technical aspects of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, Discovery Drones, LLC. submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 91.417(a) and (b). The FAA ha s 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, 1 1158, 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, Discovery Drones, LLC. r equests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Inspire 1 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 vi deo and photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a
threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe operation of the UAS in the NAS.

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, for operation of the DJI Inspire 1 UAS, since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design features of the ai rcraft. Section 21.16, entitled Special Conditions, states the following:

If the FAA finds that the airworthiness regulations of this subchapter do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safe ty standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations.

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe special conditions for Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI Inspire 1 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 Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks Exemption:

Discovery Drones, LLC. seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a)&(b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

A Brief Description of the Nature Of The Exemption Discovery Drones, LLC. s eeks:

This exemption will permit Discovery Drones, LLC. to commercially operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the Unit ed States.

• Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available to Support Discovery Drones, 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 Transpo rtation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, Discovery Drones, LLC. ’s request for exemption may be granted pursuant to the authority of FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, as set forth above.

FMRA Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness certification.

As dis cussed in detail above, Discovery Drones, LLC. will operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS safely in the NAS, without creating a hazard to users of the NAS, or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security.CONCLUSION

As set forth herein, Discovery Dr ones, LLC. seeks an exemption pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.61 and Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA), which will permit safe operation of the DJI Inspire 1 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 Discovery Drones, LLC. to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS commercially within the NAS.

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernizatio n and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Discovery Drones, 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 Leading Edge to operate the DJI Inspire 1 UAS commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

Douglass Chouinard CEO/ Discovery Drones, LLC.