June 16, 2015

Exemption No. 11832 Regulatory Docket No. FAA

– 20 15

– 1166

Mr. Michael Intschert Director of Operations AUV, LLC 1921 East Flight Line Drive Building 2 Tucson, AZ 85756

Dear Mr. Intschert : This letter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations of the exemption, including the date it ends.
By letter dated April 14, 2015 , you petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on behalf of AUV, LLC ( hereinafter petitioner or operator ) for an exemption . The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned ai rcraft system (UAS) to conduct aerial photography and cinematography

. See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA des cribing the proposed operations and the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption

. The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition in the Federal Register because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner

.
Airworthiness Certification

The UAS proposed by the petitioner are the DJI Inspire 1, Steadidrone Mavrik, and 3DR Solo

.2 In accordance with the statutory criteria provided in Section 333 of P ublic Law 112

− 95 in reference to 49 U

. S

. C

. § 44704, and in consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation, the Secretary of Transportation has determined that this aircraft meets the conditions of Section 333. Therefore, the FAA finds that relief from 14 CFR part 21
, C ertification procedures for products and parts, Subpart H

— Airworthiness Certificates , and any associated noise certification and testing requirements of part 36, is not necessary.

The Basis for Our Decision
You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection 1

. The FAA has issued grants of exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. In Grants of Exemption No s

. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 11109 to Clayco, Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA

− 20 14

− 0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Lab s , Inc. ( see Docket No. FAA−2014−0642), the FAA found that the enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned aircraft (UA) with the specifications described by the peti tioner and carrying no passengers or crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater proportions, carrying crew in addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled by this exemption is in the public i nterest.
Having reviewed your reasons for requesting an exemption, I find that

—

• They are similar in all material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213 ;

• The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213 also apply to the situation you present; and

• A grant of exemption is in the public interest.

Our Decision
In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, delegated to me by the Administrator, AUV, LLC is granted an exemption from 14 CFR §§ 61.23(a) and ( c ), 61.101(e)(4 ) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a) , 91.7(a), 91.119(c), 91.121, 91.151(a)(1), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) and (2), and 91.417(a) and (b), to the extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform aerial data collection

. This exemption is sub ject to the conditions and limitations listed below.

1 Aerial data collection includes any remote sensing and measuring by an instrument(s) aboard the UA. Examples include imagery (photography, video, infrared, etc.), electronic measurement (precision surveying, R F analysis, etc.), chemical measurement (particulate measurement, etc.), or any other gathering of data by instruments aboard the UA.3

Conditions and Limitations

In this grant of exemption, AUV, LLC is hereafter referred to as the operator.
Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the DJI Inspire 1, Steadidrone Mavrik, 3DR Solo when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. Proposed operati ons of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this exemption

.
2. Operations for the purpose of closed

- set motion picture and television filming are not permitted.

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (100 miles per hour). The exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine compliance with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the aircraft manufacturer.

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL). Altitude must be reported in feet AGL.

5. The UA must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This req uires 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 or U.S. driver’s license.

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within the visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times ;
e le ctronic 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 VO can perform the duties require d of the VO.

7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this grant of exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents,4

the condition s and limitations herein take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to t rack such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to this grant of exemp tion. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then the operator must petition for an amendment to its grant of exemption. The FA A’s UAS Integration Office (AFS− 80) may be co ntacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operating documents.

8. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g.
, replacement of a flight critical component, must und ergo a functional test flight prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. Functional test flights may only be conducted by a PIC with a VO and must remain at least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property.

9. The operator is responsible for maintaining and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is in a condition for safe operation.

10. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre

- flight inspection and determine the UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre

- flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g.
, inoperable components, items, or equipment. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe ope ration of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight.

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and aircraft components.

12. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer safety bulletins.

13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a current FAA airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver’s license issued by a state, the District of Col u mbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Fed eral government. The PIC must also meet the flight revi ew requirements specified in 14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate.5

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the ab ility to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC qualificatio n flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs and VOs (traini ng, proficiency, and experience

- building) and determining the PIC’s ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under this exemption are permitted under the terms of this exemption. However, training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During traini ng, proficiency, a nd experience

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

15. UAS operations may not be co nducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an ai rport reference point (ARP) as denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not denoted with an ARP, the center of the airport symbo l as denoted on the current FAA

- published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement wi th that airport’s management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption holder. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

17. The UA m ay 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.

18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS sign al, the UA must return to a pre

- determined loc ation within the pr ivate or controlled

- access property.

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

20. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minutes or with the reserve power recommended by the manufacturer if greater.

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate of Waiver or Authoriza tion (COA). All operations shall be cond ucted in accordance with an ATO

- issued COA. The exemption holder may apply for a new or amended COA if it intends to conduct operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the attached COA

.6

22. All aircraft op erated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification (N− Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

24. The UA must remain clear and give way to all manned aviation operations and activities at all times.

25. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any movi ng device or vehicle.

26. All Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons, vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of the UA, flight operatio ns must cease immediately in a manner ensuring the safety of nonparticipating persons ; and b. The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission for operating closer to those objects 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.
The PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons are not considered nonparticipating persons under this exemption.

27. All operations shall be conducted over private or control led

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

28. Any inci dent, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FA A'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

.7 If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed

- set motion picture and television filming and production, the following additional conditions and limitations apply.

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) as documented in this grant of exemption.

30. At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by this exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) with jurisdiction over the a rea of proposed filming. The 3

- day notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The p lan of activities must include at least the following:

a. Dates and times for all flights; b. Name and phone number of the operator for the UAS aerial filming conducted under this grant of exemption;

c. Name and phone number of th e person responsible for the on

- sce ne operation of the UAS; d. Make, model, and serial or N− Number of UAS to be used;

e. Name and certificate number of UAS PICs involved in the aerial filming; f. A statement that the operator has obtained permission from property owners and/or local officials to con duct the filming production event; the list of those who gave permission must be made available to the inspector upon request; g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and h. A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams of any area , city, town, county, and/or state over which filming will be conducted and the altitudes essential to accomplish the operation.

31. Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating persons consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, as specified in the exemption holder’s MPTOM.
Unless otherwise specified in this grant of exemption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.8 This exemption terminates on June 30, 2017 , unless sooner superseded or rescinded.
Sincerely,

/s/ John S. Duncan Director, Flight Standards Service

EnclosuresUNITED STATES OF AMERICA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION WASHINGTON, DC

Regulatory Docket No. _________________

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: AUV, LLC. FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS: CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION OF THE: DJI INSPIRE 1 STEADIDRONE MAVRIK 3DR SOLO PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012 (PUBLIC LAW 112

- 95)

Submitted on April 14 , 2015
AUV, LLC. MICHAEL INTSCHERT 1921 E Flight Line Drive Building 2 Tucson, Arizona 85756 Tel: (281) 414

- 0280AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 2 of 32 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page

APPENDICES

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

................................ ................................ ............................. 4
BACKGROUND INFORMATION

................................ ................................ ................................ 5
AIRCRAFT MO DELS INCLUDED IN THIS PETITION

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

................................ ................................ ...................... 5
A. NAME & ADDRESS OF PETITIONER

................................ ................................ ........... 7
B. THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R.
FROM W HICH AUV, LLC. SEEKS EXEMPTION

................................ .......................... 7
C. THE EXTENT OF RELIEF AUV, LLC.
SEEKS & THE REASON AUV, LLC. SEEKS RELIEF

................................ ................. 11
D. THE REASONS WHY GRANDING AUV, LLC.’S REQUEST WO ULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST

................................ .................. 13
E. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION
WOUL D NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY

................................ ........................... 1 6
F. SUMMARY THAT CAN BE
PUBL ISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGIS TER

................................ ................................ 32
G. ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS
AVAILABLE T O SUPPORT AUV, LLC.’S REQUEST

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

................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 34AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 3 of 32 APPENDICES

OPERATING MANUAL DJI INSPIRE 1

................................ .............................. EXHIBIT A

OPERATING MANUAL STEADIDRONE MAVRIK

................................ ......... EXHIBIT B

KITTYHAWK SELL SHEET

................................ ................................ ................. EXHIBIT C

OPERATING CHECKLIST DJI INSPIRE 1

................................ .......................... EXHIBIT D

OPERATING CHECKL IST STEADIDRONE MAVRIK

................................ ...... EXHIBIT E

TRAINING OUTLINE DJI INSPIRE 1

................................ ................................ . EXHIBIT F

TRAINING OUTLINE STEADIDRONE MAVRIK

................................ ............. EXHIBIT G

AUV STANDAR D OPERATING PROCEDURES

................................ ............... EXHIBIT HAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 4 of 32 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

A GL Above Ground Level
AOI Area of Interest
ATC Air Traffic Control
ATO Air Traffic Organization
AV Aerial Vehicle
C2 Command and Control
C.F.R. Code of Federal Regulations
COA Certificate of Authorization
FAA Federal Aviation Administration
FAR Federal Aviation Regulation
GCS Ground Control Station
GPS Global Positioning System
LOL Loss of Link
NAS National Airspace System
NOTAM Notice to Airman
PIC Pilot In Command
Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Sec tion 333
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
sUAS Small Unmanned Aircraft System
UA Unmanned Aircraft
UAS Unmanned Aircraft System
VFR Visual Flight Rules
VLOS Visual Line of Site
VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions
VO Visual Observer
VTOL V ertical Takeoff and LandingAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 5 of 32 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

AUV, LLC. also known as AUV Flight Services, (hereafter referred to as “AUV”) is in the business of consultation and pilot contracting, both for manned and unmanned aircraft operations.
AUV seeks an exemption to operate several sUAS, listed below, for compensation or hire within the National Airspace System (“NAS”). The proposed aircraft all include vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) and transportable Ground Contro l Stations (GCS). Regulatory exemptions laid out in this petition would allow AUV to provide aerial photography and cinematography services, utilizing UA, for private and commercial interests in the United
States.
The sUAS to be operated will be registered in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 44103, Registration of Aircraft, as well as 14 C.F.R Part 47, Aircraft Registration, and marked in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 45, Identification and Registration Marking.

AIRCRAFT MODELS INCLUDED IN THIS PETITION

1. DJI Inspi re 1
2. SteadiDrone Mavrik
3. 3DR Solo The 3DR Solo, including the associated manufacturer documentation
, has not yet been released. As soon as information is available, AUV will submit amendments and attachments to this petition.

REGULATORY BASIS FOR PETITION
Pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems , AUV hereby petitions the Administrator to operate sUAS in the 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).AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 6 of 32 In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area as sociated with the unmanned aircraft and its operation, AUV’s operation of the listed UAS meets the conditions of Section 333 and therefore, will not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.
Accordingly, AUV requ ests 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.
AUV submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level of safety will be ensured. AUV will perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS as prescribed by the manufacturers’ maintenance documentation where applicable, or by returning
the aircraft to its manufacturer when operator maintenance is not recommended. Furthermore,
AUV will document and maintain all maintenance records for the aircraft u sed in the requested operations, utilizing the Kittyhawk.io digital logbook system.
Relief from certain require ments of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges
and limitations: Pilot in command , is requested by AUV to the extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot certificate and a third

- class airman medical cert ificate, and who has completed the OEM training and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS operations, or to supervise and train students in OEM certification courses. AUV submits
that the conditions and limitations set forth herein will ensure the safety of the NAS, as well as the safety of persons or property on the ground.
AUV seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft airworthiness , because the selected sUAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C. F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such, AUV submits that it will ensure that the unmanned aircraft are in an airworthy condition prior to every flight, by determining that the UAS are in compliance with the applicable UAS Operator and Maintenance Manuals, and th at the UA are in condition for safe flight.
AUV also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter Settings , as the proposed UAS are equipped with a barometer and Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment, which ensures tha t a ground level pressure setting will be established prior toAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 7 of 32 each flight. The UA barometer and GPS equipment ensure safety by providing the PIC with adequate information concerning altitude of the UA, above ground level (AGL), as shown on the
heads

- up di splay of the GCS.
Additionally, AUV seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.151(b), Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions . AUV submits that safety will not be affected because flights will be terminated at or before battery levels w hich are recommended by the OEM for safe operation.
In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, AUV provides the following information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

The name and address of the Petitioner is: AUV, LLC. 1921 E Flight Line Drive Building 2 Tucson, Arizona 85756 The point of contact for this Petition and specific contact information is as follows: Michael Intschert, Director of Operations AUV, LLC. 1921 E Flight Line Drive Building 2 Tucson, Arizona 85756 Phone: (281) 414

- 0280 Email: Michael.Intschert@auvops.com

B. The Specific Sections of 14 C.F.R. From Which AUV Seeks Exemption.
1. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.11 3(a) And (b).

Section 61.113, entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations : Pilot in command, subsections (a) and (b) prescribe the following, in part:
(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in command
(PIC) of an aircr aft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation orAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 8 of 32 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. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a).

Section 91.7, entitled Ci vil aircraft airworthiness , subsection (a), states the following:
(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition.
3. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121.

Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings , subsection (a), states the following, in relevant 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;
(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. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Re quirements Of Section 91.151(b).

Section 91.151, entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, subsection (b), states the following:AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 9 of 32 (b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering
wind and forecast weat her conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20
minutes.
5. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).

Section 91.405, entitled Ma intenance 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. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1).

Section 91.407, entitled Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or
alterat ion , 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. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections 91.409(a)(1) And 91.409(a)(2). Section 91.409, entitled Inspections , subsection (a), states the following:
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had

-- (1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by § 43.7 of this chapter; or
(2) An inspection for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate in accordance with part 21 of this chapter.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 10 of 32 8. AUV 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 following records for the periods specified in paragraph (b) of this section:
(1) Records of the maintenance, prev entive maintenance, and alteration and records
of the 100

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

-- (i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed; and
(ii) The date of completion of the work performed; and
(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircr aft 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,

roto r, 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 requ ired by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its appliances are maintained.
(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safetyAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 11 of 32 directive nu mber and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required.
(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major alteration to the airframe and currently in stalled 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 supe rseded 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 registe red 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 AUV Seeks And The Reason AUV Seeks The Relief.

1. Extent of Relief AUV Seeks And The Reason AUV Seeks Relief From Section 61.113(a) And (b). Relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot
in command , is requested to the extent necessary to allow a P ilot in Command (PIC) holding
at le ast a sport pilot certificate and a third

- class airman medical certificate, and who has completed the OEM training and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS operations

. 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 pas sengers or property for compensation or hire.
As set forth more fully below, AUV submits that an equivalent level of safety wil l be
maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate a UAS unless that PIC hasAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 12 of 32 demonstrated, through the OEM training and cu rrency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the aircraft in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.
Further, AUV submits that all flights of the UAS, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition (1) will be incidental to AUV’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire.
2. Extent of Relief AUV Seeks And The Reason AUV 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 AUV to determine that the operations UAS is in an airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS is in compliance with the applicable operations and maintenance manuals, and that the UA is in condition for safe flight. Copies of the Inspire 1 and Mavrik operator’s manuals are attached as exhibits A and B. The Solo operator’s manual will be submitted when it is released to the public.
AUV seeks the requested relief because the proposed sUAS do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Ther efore, AUV will ensure that the sUAS is in an airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the operating documents prior to every flight, and as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

3. Extent of Relief AUV Seeks And The Reason AUV Seeks Re lief From Section 91.121.
Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight operations of the proposed UAS, which utilize barometer and GPS equipment, to ensure that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and in order to report altitude to the PIC. AUV seeks the requested relief because the proposed UAS do not utilize a typical barometric altimeter that may be set as contemplated by Section 91.121. As more fully set forth below, an eq uivalent level of safety will be maintained since the sUAS are equipped with a barometer and GPS equipment, which will ensure that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with altitude
information of t he UA, above ground level (AGL), on the heads

- up display of the ground control station (GCS).AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 13 of 32 4. Extent Of Relief AUV Seeks And The Reason AUV 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 UA, during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions under visual flight rules (VFR), to continue for a total duration not greater than that recommended by the manufacturer for safe operation. AUV seeks the requested relief, because without an exemption from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered UA will severely constrain the practicality of any
aerial photography operations which AU V proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

5. Extent Of Relief AUV Seeks And The Reason AUV Seeks Relief From Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b). Since Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, AUV requests relief from these Sections because the UAS do not require an airworthiness certificate. As set forth more fully below,
the selected UAS meet the conditions of Secti on 333 of the FMRA for operation without an airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, AUV will perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UAS as prescribed by the manufacturers’ maintenance documentation where applicable, or by return ing the aircraft to its manufacturer when operator maintenance is not recommended. Furthermore, AUV will use Kittyhawk.io, a
cloud

- based electronic maintenance and pilot log, to document and maintain all maintenance
records for the aircraft u sed.

D. Reaso ns Why Granting AUV’s 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 AUV to safely, efficiently, and economically perform commercial a erial photography and cinematography

. Additionally, our services will aid in increasing safety and proper operating procedures for these aircraft both in commercial and private markets to reduce risk and potential accidents. Notably,
the benefits of AUV’ s proposed operations of the listed UAS will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

1. The Public Will Benefit From The Aerial Photography And Cinematography.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 14 of 32 AUV’s photography and cinematography program will provide safe, efficient, and
economical imaging to the public

. The exemption process under FMRA section 333 allows the FAA to hand pick the safest operators to spearhead the UAS service market in the United States, which increases the safety for the public as a whole. This petition and its supporting documents prove AUV to be exactly the type of operator the FAA should wish to proliferate based on its dual mandate to increase safety and economic prosperity. AUV has empirically proven itself to be safe r than many other UAS operators, and UAS in general pose a much smaller risk to the public than manned, combustion engine aircraft generally used for aerial photography. To utilize an analogy from micro economics, granting this petition will increase
the su pply of safe, lawful aerial photo graphy operators in the United States, which will drive
down the demand for and u se of less safe manned aircraft operators or illegal UAS operators

. Aerial imaging which uses UA is inherently cheaper than operations which rely on manned aircraft, meaning that AUV will be able to provide the same services to the general public at a tremendous discount. This will create an economic benefit for the public , in addition to the safety benefit.
Finally, the exemptions granted by this petition would allow AUV to operate as an aid to law enforcement agencies, search and rescue operations, and accident investigation efforts. AUV will provide timely strategic and investigative information to these operations, which could help save liv es and reduce property losses. Granting the specified exemptions will provide not only safety and economic benefit to the public, but also an increased effectiveness of pre

existing public services.
2. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of T he NAS.

The DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, and SteadiDrone Mavrik serve as a safe, efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized in many commercial industries. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed, an exemption allowing the use of these aircraft 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.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 15 of 32 Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. These aircraft do not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a reduction of manned aircraft conducting commercial operations wo uld result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.
3. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of These Aircraft.
Conducting commer cial operations with the DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, or SteadiDrone Mavrik, instead of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air and noise pollution generated during traditional commercial aviation operations. All models use only batt ery power and electric motors. T hese aircraft produce no air pollution, and are the most viable environmentally conscious alternative to cabin class, internal combustion aircraft that are typically utilized in commercial operations

. SUAS also reduce noise pollution, as the electric motors produce far less noise

. By using these aircraft to perform commercial aerial operations, the substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually associated with tra ditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely eliminated.
Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboar d the aircraft, these aircraft all weigh less than 55 po unds at the ir maximum gross weight, and th erefore have less physical potential for collateral damage to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to typical manned aircraft.
4. There Are No Privacy Issues.
Similar to manned commercial operations that have been conducted for decade s, AUV’s proposed operation s will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, these aircraft will be operated only in rur al areas and in accordance with all Federal Aviation Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. 91.119. Most significantly, these aircraft will not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure,
which is not directly involved in the operations. Privacy and safety of any persons in the vicinity of operations are of great importance to AUV and AUV will co mply with all local,
state and federal laws applicable to the safety and privacy of people in th e vicinit y of sUASAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 16 of 32 operations. Unless required to safely return the aircraft in an emergency situation , aircraft
visual sensors will not focus on anything but AUV’s assets, and if any images or video of

non

- AUV assets is accidentally captured, the data will be imme diately erased from the UAS

camera, sensors, ground stations etc. at the local landing site.
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 B y The Rule From Which AUV Seeks Exemption. 1. Reasons Why The DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, And SteadiDrone Mavrik UAS Meet The Conditions Of The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section 333. In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limit ed operating area associated with the unmanned aircraft and their operation, AUV’s operations of the DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, and SteadiDrone Mavrik UAS meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333, and will not require an
airworthiness certificate in accordanc e with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.
Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and sets forth requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA Section 333 states the following, in part:
(a) In General.

-- Notwithstanding any other requirement of this subtitle, and not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Tra nsportation 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) As sessment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

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

-- (1) W hich types of unmanned aircraft systems, if any, as a result of their size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace system or the public or pose a threat to national security; andAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 1 7 of 32 (2) Whether a certificate of waiver, certificate o f 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 determine s 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, AUV submits that the included UAS can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of these UAS; (b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limit ations.
Copies of the Inspire 1 and Mavrik operator’s manuals are attached as exhibits A and B. The Solo operator’s manual will be submitted when it is released to the public.
A. DJI Inspire 1

i. Autonomous Features And Lost Link Procedures

If the aircraft loses communications with the GCS on either video transmission or C2 bands for more than 3 seconds, by default it will climb to 20 meters above the home point or maintain altitude if it is already more than 20 meters above home point. The
aircraft will th en fly directly above the home point, wait for 15 seconds, and perform an automatic landing. The home point and failsafe altitude are user

- programmable. The aircraft will remain in fully stable and controlled flight throughout all procedures.

If the GPS so lution is lost during flight, the pilot will receive an annunciator and will
have immediate control of the aircraft.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 18 of 32 All other details on the aircraft's safety procedures and features can be found in the operator’s manual , attached as Exhibit A.

ii. Feat ures Of The DJI GCS And Flight Control Software
A complete description of the operation and specifications of the GCS and flight
control software for DJI UAS is provided in the Operator Manual , attached as Exhibit
A.

B . SteadiDrone Mavrik & 3DR Solo

i. Aut onomous Features And Lost Link Procedures
When a radio failsafe is triggered one of the following will happen:

• Nothing if the vehicle is already disarmed

• Motors will be immediately disarmed if the vehicle is landed OR in stabilize or
acro mode and the pilot’s throttle is at zero

• Return

- to

- Launch (RTL) if the vehicle has a GPS lock and is more than 2 meters from the home position

• LAND if the vehicle has:

o no GPS lock OR

o is within 2 meters of home OR

o the FS_THR_ENABLE parameter is set to “Enabled Always Land”AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 19 of 32 o Continue with the mission if the vehicle is in AUTO mode and the FS_THR_ENABLE parameter is set to “Enabled Continue with Mission in
Auto Mode”.

• If the failsafe clears (i.e. transmitter and receiver regain contact) the copter will
remain in its curre nt flight mode. It will not automatically return to the flight mode that was active before the failsafe was triggered. This means that if, for example, the vehicle was in Loiter when the failsafe occured and the flight mode was automatically changed to RTL , even after the transmitter and receiver regained contact, the vehicle would remain in RTL. If the pilot wished to re

- take control in Loiter he/she would need to change your flight mode switch to another position and then back to Loiter.
Battery alarms a nd failsafe’s are completely configurable and can trigger based on voltage, amperage, or amp

- hours consumed. When a battery failsafe is triggered, one of the following will occur:

● Nothing if the vehicle is already disarmed

● Disarm motors if the vehicle is i n Stabilize or Acro mode and the throttle is at
zero OR the vehicle is landed

● Return

- to

- Launch (RTL) if the FS_BATT_ENABLE param eter is set to “2” (“RTL”) OR the vehicle is in AUTO mode, has a GPS lock and are at least 2 meters from your home position

● Land in all other cases
The aircraft will remain in fully stable and controlled flight throughout all procedures.
All other details on the Mavrik ’s safety procedures and features can be found in the operator’s manual
, attached as exhibit B

. The Solo operator’s manual will be submitted when it is released to the public.

ii. Features Of The 3DR GCS And Flight Control SoftwareAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 20 of 32 A complete description of the operation and specifications of the GCS and flight
control software for the SteadiDrone Mavrik is provided in the operator’s manual,
attached as Exhibit B
2. Flight Operations Of The DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, and SteadiDrone Mavrik UAS Are Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A Safety Observer. AUV will only utilize instructor pilot s who meet the following criteria:

• Possess a valid third class or better FAA airman medical certificate

• Possess and meet currency requirements for at least a sport pilot certificate

• Successful completion of AUV’s Multirotor Course
AUV will only utilize visual observers who have achieved a passing grade on the FAA Private Pilot written exam within the past 24 calendar months. Students must possess a valid third class or better FAA airman medical certificate before training begins. Training records, flight time totals, and applicable flight currency records will all be maintained by AUV. Training course outlines for the Multirotor Course have been attached to this petition as
Exhibits F and G.
3. Flights Of The DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, And SteadiDrone Mavri k UAS Will Be Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations. In seeking this exemption, AUV proposes to commercially operate the specified UAS for the special purpose of conducting aerial photography and cinematography over rural areas of the
United States, pursuant to the following specific operating limitations:

1) Operations authorized by the grant of exemption will be limited to the following aircraft described in the operating documents, which are vertical takeoff and landing, unmanned
aircraft wei ghing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight : DJI Inspire 1, 3DR Solo, and SteadiDrone Mavrik. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend the grant. 2) These UA may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 40 miles per hour. 3) These UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL). All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 21 of 32 4) These UA must be operated within visu al line of sight (VLOS) of the Pilot in Command (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. 5) All operations mus t utilize a Visual Observer (VO). The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement, as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. The PIC must be designated before the flight and ca nnot transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the VO can perform the functions prescribed in the operating
documents. 6) The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be maintained and made
available t o the Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in the exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the conditions and limitations in the grant of exemption take precedence and
must be f ollowed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised
docum ents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon wh ich 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. 7) Prior to ea ch flight, the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the UA is prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Stations must be included in the preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly
documented in the aircraft records via Kittyhawk.io

. 8) Any UAS maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight characteristics (e.g. replacement of a flight critical component), must undergo aAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 22 of 32 functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry in the proper UA record of t he flight on Kittyhawk.io

. 9) In addition to the pre

- flight inspection section in the operating documents, the preflight inspection must also account for all discrepancies, i.e. inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the relevant s ections of the operating documents. 10) The operator must follow the aircraft specific manufacturer’s UAS aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements. 11) The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. Maintenance, inspection, and alterations must be noted in the aircraft logbook on Kittyhawk.io , including total flight hours, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized maintenance personnel or PIC returning the UAS to service. 12) The operator’s authorized maintenance personnel or PIC must make a record entry in the UAS logbook or equivalent document of the corrective action taken against discrepancies
disc overed between inspections. 13) The operator’s authorized maintenance personnel, PIC, and VO must receive and document training referenced in the operating documents. 14) The UAS operated under the exemption must comply with all manufacturer System and Safety Bull etins. 15) The PIC must possess at least a FAA

- issued sport pilot certificate and a valid FAA

- issued third class airman medical certificate. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 C.F.R. 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is r ated on his or her pilot certificate. 16) Prior to operating for hire, the PIC, and VO must have successfully completed AUV’s training syllabus as outlined in the operating documents. A record of training must be documented and made available upon request by the Administrator. Training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights for the purpose of training pilots and VOs to conduct flights authorized by the exemption are permitted under the terms of the exemption.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 23 of 32 17) If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a pre

determined location within the planned operating area and land, or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents. 18) The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in
accordance with the operating documents. 19) The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. AUV’s operations will either be covered by a “bla nket” COA for operations in rural areas under 200 feet AGL, or an operation

- specific COA as necessary. This COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. For operations in support of first responders, law enforcement, search and rescue, or accident investigations, AUV or its customers will obtain an emergency COA prior to flight. 20) The UA operated in accordance with the exemption must be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 47, and have identification (N

- Number) markings in accordance with 14 C.F.R Part 45, Subpart C. 21) Before conducting flight operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and
control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 22) The documents required under 14 C.F.R §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC
at the Ground Control Station of th e UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These documents must be made available to the Administrator, or any law enforcement official, upon request. 23) The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all other aircraft operations and
activities at all times. 24) UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R. § 1.1. 25) All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). 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. 26) During operations in the National Airspace System, the UA may not operate within the
areas listed below unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management isAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 24 of 32 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.

• 5 nautical miles (NM) from an airport having an operati onal control tower; or

• 3 NM from an airport with a published instrument flight procedure, but not an operational tower; or

• 2 NM from an airport without a published instrument flight procedure or an operational tower; or

• 2 NM from a heliport with a publish ed instrument flight procedure

27) The UA may not be operated over congested or densely populated areas. These areas include, but are not limited, to the yellow areas depicted on World Aeronautical Charts (WAC), Sectional Aeronautical Charts (Sectionals), or T erminal Area Charts (TAC). However, aeronautical charts may not reflect pertinent local information. Ultimately, it is the PIC’s responsibility to maintain the minimum safe altitudes required by 14 C.F.R. §
91.119. 28) Operation of the UA must be conducted at least 500 feet from all persons, vessels, vehicles, and structures not directly involved in the operation. 29) Operations of the UA may be conducted at distances less than 500 feet from participating persons, vessels, vehicles or structures that perform an ess ential function in connection with the special purpose operations. Operations closer than 500 feet from the PIC, VO, operator trainees and essential persons, are permitted when operationally necessary; but never so close as to present an undue hazard, per 14 C.F.R. § 91.119(a). 30) Operations of the UA may be conducted at distances less than 500 feet from unoccupied vessels, vehicles or structures owned by the land owner/controller when the land owner/controller grants such permission and the PIC makes a safety assessment of the risk from operations closer to these objects. 31) All operations shall be conducted with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtai ned for each flight to be conducted. 32) Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported toAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 25 of 32 the FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) wit hin 24 hours. Accidents meeting the requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 830 must be reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.
4. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 61.113(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. AUV submits that an equivalent level of safety established by Section 61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, thro ugh the proper UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels,
vehicles and structures.
Considering AUV’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 necessary to safely operate the UAS, AUV submits that the additional manned airmanship experience of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary for AUV’s specific proposed flight operation s.
Additionally, 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).
As in Exemption No. 11109, AUV will not allow any PIC to operate the UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated through the UAS training and currency requirements that the PIC is able to safely operate the UAS in a manner consisten t with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles
and structures.
A complete description of the AUV Multiroto r training requirements is set forth in the
Tr aining Outlines, attached as Exhibits F and G . These files contain proprietary information and are to be held in a separate file pursuant to 14 C.F.R. § 11.35(b).AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 26 of 32 5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.
The le vel of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because prior to every flight, AUV will ensure that the UAS is in an airworthy condition and safe for flight based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating documents and as stated in the c onditions 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, 1106 6, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138).
6. 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
UAS is e quipped with a digitally encoded barometric altimeter and GPS triangulation equipment, with a zero altitude initiation point being established prior to each flight. As such, the PIC on the UAS is provided the altitude of the UA above ground level (AGL) via a heads

- up display of the ground control station (GCS). 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, 1106 5, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138).
7. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.151(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety. A grant of this exemption would ensure the equivalent level of safety established by 14
C.F.R. Se ction 91.151(b) because the operator will always have detailed information on the charge and state of the battery, and preset battery failsafe’s will prevent any loss of flight control due to power loss. Furthermore, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151(b) establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of a UAS are considered.
The ground control station (GCS) provides a battery indicator on the heads

- up display, which indicates the UA’s current remaining battery power measured in volts, and thus provides the
PIC with constant awareness of the real

- time battery voltage during a flight.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 27 of 32 Specific details on battery failsafe s can be found in the Inspire 1 and Mavrik operato r’s
manuals , which are attached as exhibits A and B. The Solo operator’s manual will be submitted when it is released to the public.
Likewise, as set forth above, AUV has proposed specific operating limitations in this Petition that will maintain the equiv alent level of safety established by Section 91.151(b), including the following: (1) the UA will only be operated during daylight hours (i.e. between the end of morning civil twilight and the beginning of evening civil twilight, as published in the
America n Air Almanac, converted to local time); (2) The UA will only be operated pursuant to visual flight rules (VFR) in visual meteorological conditions (VMC); and (3) the duration of each flight shall not exceed the maximum time or battery charge level recomme nded by the manufacturer for safe operations

. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating
limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, including Exemption Nos. 2689, 5745, and 10650. Moreover, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.151, specific to UAS in circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 8811, 10808, 10673, 11042, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138).
8. 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, AUV submits that an 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 AUV and the manufacturers of each aircraft, will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the unmanned aircraft system using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the manufacturer’s maintenance manual. Furthermore,
AUV will document and maintain all maintenance records for each of the individual aircraft.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 28 of 32 Since each UAS will be inspe cted as prescribed by the manufacturer’s maintenance manual, AUV will maintain the equivalent level of safety established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). The Aircraft Maintenance Manuals set forth Scheduled Maintenance Inspection Pro cedures for each system and component. Inspection intervals for the aircraft include preflight and postflight inspections, as well as scheduled inspections every 25 hours, 50 hours, 75 hours, and 100 hours of operation.
Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because AUV will perform maintenance, alterations or preventive maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the manufacturer’s maintenance manuals for each respective aircraft.
A cop y of ea ch aircraft’s Operator’s Manual, are at tached as Exhibits A and B. Other operator’s manuals will be submitted as attachments to this petition as they become available
to AUV.
Furthermore, the exemption sought would maintain an equivalent level of safety es tablished by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b) because all maintenance of the aircraft will be performed by manufacturer approved technicians, who will document and maintain maintenance records for the UAS. A Maintenance Action Form must be complet ed and saved in the maintenance logs for all maintenance that is performed on the UAS. The procedures for maintaining the maintenance logs for the UAS are fully set forth in the AUV Operations Manua l, Exhibit Q

. Details on the Kittyhawk.io logging program can be found in the Kittyhawk Sell Sheet, attached as Exhibit C

. Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not adversely
affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of a UAS are considered. 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,
1 1065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138).
7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 29 of 32 In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Co nditions, AUV requests that the FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of each 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. P art 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will permit safe operation of the UA for the limited purpose of conducting aerial p hotography over rural areas of the United States. 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 each UAS, since the airworthiness regulations of 14 C.F.R. Part 21 do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards, due to the novel or unusual design features of the aircraft. Section 21.16, entitled Special Condit ions, 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 ai rcraft, aircraft engine or propeller, he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established in the regulations.

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.
Therefore, in accordance with FMRA Section 333 and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16, the FAA may prescribe special conditions for A UV’s intended operation of the DJI Inspire 1 , 3DR Solo, and SteadiDrone Mavrik, 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, a nd 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).AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 30 of 32 F. A Summary That Can Be Published In The Federal Register , Stating:
The Rules From Which AUV Seeks Exemption:

AUV, 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 AUV Seeks:
This exemption wil l permit AUV, LLC. to commercially operate Unmanned Aircraft Systems for the purpose of conducting aerial photography and cinematography over certain rural areas of the United States.
G. Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To Support AUV’s Request.
This Petition is made pursuant to the FAA Mod ernization and Reform Act of 20 12 (FMRA) Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may operate safely in the NAS. As such, AUV’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 discussed in detail above, AUV will operate the specified 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, AUV 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, 3DR Solo, and SteadiDrone Mavrik UAS commercially, without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial photography and cinematography within the stated operational guidelines. By granting this Petition, th e FAAAUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 31 of 32 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 AUV to safely, efficiently, and economically operate these UAS commercially with in the NAS.AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 32 of 32 WHEREFORE , in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, AUV 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 AUV to operate the specified UAS for the purpose of conducting aerial photography and cinematography over rural areas of the United States.

Dated: April 14 , 2015 Respectfully submitted,
AUV, LLC.

MICHAEL INTSCHERT 1921 E Flight Line Drive Building 2 Tucson, Arizona 85756 Tel: (281) 414

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