June 16, 2015

Exemption No. 11832

Regulatory Docket No. FAA–2015–1166

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 aircraft system (UAS) to conduct aerial photography and 

cinematography.

See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA describing 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 Public 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, Certification 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 collection1. The FAA has issued grants of 

exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. 

In Grants of Exemption Nos. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0352), 

11109 to Clayco, Inc. (see Docket No. FAA−2014−0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (see

Docket No. FAA−2014−0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Labs, 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 petitioner 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 interest.

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 subject 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, RF 

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 operations 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 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 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; 

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 VO can perform the duties 

required 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, 
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the conditions 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 track 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 exemption. 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 FAA’s 

UAS Integration Office (AFS−80) may be contacted 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 undergo 

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 operation of the UAS, the aircraft is 

prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the 

UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight.

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 Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal 

government. The PIC must also meet the flight review 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 

ability 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 

qualification 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 

(training, 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 

training, proficiency, and experience-building flights, all persons not essential for 

flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA 

with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119.

15. UAS operations may not be conducted 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 airport 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 symbol as denoted on the current 

FAA-published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with 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 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.

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

pre-determined location within the private 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 Authorization (COA). All 

operations shall be conducted 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.
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22. All aircraft operated 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 moving 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 operations 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 controlled-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 incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported 

to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS−80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be 

reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions 

contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov.
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 area of proposed filming. The 3-day 

notification may be waived with the concurrence of the FSDO. The plan 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 the person responsible for the on-scene 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 conduct 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

Enclosures
UNITED 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) 414-0280
AUV Proprietary & Competition Sensitive. File Securely. Page 2 of 32

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................3

GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................4

BACKGROUND INFORMATION ................................................................................................5

AIRCRAFT MODELS 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 WHICH 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 WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ..................................................13

E. THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION 

WOULD NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT SAFETY...........................................................16

F. SUMMARY THAT CAN BE 

PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER ................................................................32

G. ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS 

AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT AUV, LLC.’S REQUEST.................................................33

CONCLUSION..............................................................................................................................34
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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 CHECKLIST STEADIDRONE MAVRIK......................................EXHIBIT E

TRAINING OUTLINE DJI INSPIRE 1 ................................................................. EXHIBIT F

TRAINING OUTLINE STEADIDRONE MAVRIK .............................................EXHIBIT G

AUV STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES ...............................................EXHIBIT H
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GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL 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) Section 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 Vertical Takeoff and Landing
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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 Control 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 Inspire 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).
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In consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated 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 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.

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 used in the requested 

operations, utilizing the Kittyhawk.io digital logbook system.

Relief from certain requirements 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 certificate, 

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 that 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 that a ground level pressure setting will be established prior to 
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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 display 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 which 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 61.113(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 aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for compensation or
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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 Civil 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 Requirements Of Section 91.151(b).

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

the following:
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(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. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirement Of Section 91.405(a).

Section 91.405, entitled Maintenance required, subsection (a), states the following:

Each owner or operator of an aircraft—

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

between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have 

discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter[.]

6. AUV Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.407(a)(1).

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

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

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

maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless--

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of 

this chapter[.]

7. 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.
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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, preventive maintenance, and alteration and records 

of the 100-hour, annual, progressive, and other required or approved inspections, as 

appropriate, for each aircraft (including the airframe) and each engine, propeller, 

rotor, and appliance of an aircraft. The records must include--

(i) A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work 

performed; and

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

(iii) The signature, and certificate number of the person approving the aircraft for 

return to service.

(2) Records containing the following information:

(i) The total time in service of the airframe, each engine, each propeller, and each 

rotor.

(ii) The current status of life-limited parts of each airframe, engine, propeller, 

rotor, and appliance.

(iii) The time since last overhaul of all items installed on the aircraft which are 

required to be overhauled on a specified time basis.

(iv) The current inspection status of the aircraft, including the time since the last 

inspection required by the inspection program under which the aircraft and its 

appliances are maintained.

(v) The current status of applicable airworthiness directives (AD) and safety 

directives including, for each, the method of compliance, the AD or safety 
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directive number and revision date. If the AD or safety directive involves 

recurring action, the time and date when the next action is required.

(vi) Copies of the forms prescribed by § 43.9(d) of this chapter for each major 

alteration to the airframe and currently installed engines, rotors, propellers, and 

appliances.

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

(1) The records specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be retained until the 

work is repeated or superseded by other work or for 1 year after the work is 

performed.

(2) The records specified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall be retained and 

transferred with the aircraft at the time the aircraft is sold.

(3) A list of defects furnished to a registered owner or operator under § 43.11 of this 

chapter shall be retained until the defects are repaired and the aircraft is approved for 

return to service.

C. The Extent Of Relief 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 Pilot in Command (PIC) holding 

at least 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 passengers or property for compensation or hire.

As set forth more fully below, AUV submits that an equivalent level of safety will be 

maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate a UAS unless that PIC has 
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demonstrated, through the OEM training and currency 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. Therefore, 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 Relief 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 equivalent 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 the UA, above ground level (AGL), on the heads-up display of the ground 

control station (GCS).
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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 AUV 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 Section 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 returning 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 used. 

D. Reasons 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 aerial 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.
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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 safer 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 microeconomics, granting this petition will increase

the supply of safe, lawful aerial photography operators in the United States, which will drive 

down the demand for and use 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 lives 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 preexisting public services.

2. The Public Will Benefit From Decreased Congestion Of The 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.
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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 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.

3. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of These Aircraft.

Conducting commercial 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 battery power and electric motors. These 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 traditional 

manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced or completely eliminated. 

Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the aircraft, these aircraft all 

weigh less than 55 pounds at their maximum gross weight, and therefore 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 decades, AUV’s 

proposed operations will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, these aircraft will be 

operated only in rural 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 comply with all local, 

state and federal laws applicable to the safety and privacy of people in the vicinity of sUAS 
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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 immediately 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 

By 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 limited 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 accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Section 333 provides authority for a UAS to operate without airworthiness certification and 

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

NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security. Specifically, FMRA 

Section 333 states the following, in part:

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

180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall 

determine if certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the national 

airspace system before completion of the plan and rulemaking required by section 332 of 

this Act or the guidance required by section 334 of this Act.

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

subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine, at a minimum--

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

speed, operational capability, proximity to airports and populated areas, and operation 

within visual line of sight do not create a hazard to users of the national airspace 

system or the public or pose a threat to national security; and
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(2) Whether a certificate of waiver, certificate of authorization, or airworthiness 

certification under section 44704 of title 49, United States Code, is required for the 

operation of unmanned aircraft systems identified under paragraph (1).

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

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

Secretary 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 limitations.

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 then 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 solution is lost during flight, the pilot will receive an annunciator and will 

have immediate control of the aircraft.
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All other details on the aircraft's safety procedures and features can be found in the 

operator’s manual, attached as Exhibit A.

ii. Features 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. Autonomous 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”
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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 current 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 and 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 in Stabilize or Acro mode and the throttle is at 

zero OR the vehicle is landed

● Return-to-Launch (RTL) if the FS_BATT_ENABLE parameter 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 Software
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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 pilots 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 Mavrik 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 weighing 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.
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4) These UA must be operated within visual 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 must 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 cannot 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 to 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 followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its 

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

operator’s responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised 

documents to the Administrator upon request. The operator must also present updated 

and revised documents if it petitions for extension or amendment to the grant of 

exemption. If the operator determines that any update or revision would affect the basis 

upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then the operator must petition for 

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

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

7) Prior to each 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 a 
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functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight must make an entry 

in the proper UA record of the 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 sections 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 

discovered 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 Bulletins.

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 rated 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.
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17) If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a predetermined 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 “blanket” 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 the 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 is 
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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 operational 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 published 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 Terminal 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 essential 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 obtained 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 to 
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the FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) within 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, through 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 forthabove; 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 operations.

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 consistent with this exemption, including evasive and 

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

and structures.

A complete description of the AUV Multirotor training requirements is set forth in the 

Training 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).
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5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) Would Not 

Adversely Affect Safety.

The level 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 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).

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 equipped 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, 11065, 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. Section 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.
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Specific details on battery failsafes can be found in the Inspire 1 and Mavrik operator’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 equivalent 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 

American 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 recommended 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.
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Since each UAS will be inspected 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 Procedures 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 copy of each aircraft’s Operator’s Manual, are attached 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 established 

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 completed 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 Manual, 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, 

11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138).

7. The FAA May Prescribe Any Other Conditions For Safe Operation.
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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, 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. Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 

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

special conditions will permit safe operation of the UA for the limited purpose of conducting 

aerial photography 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 Conditions, states the following:

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

adequate or appropriate safety standards for an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller 

because of a novel or unusual design feature of the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller, 

he prescribes special conditions and amendments thereto for the product. The special 

conditions are issued in accordance with Part 11 of this chapter and contain such safety 

standards for the aircraft, aircraft engine or propeller as the FAA finds necessary to 

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

See 14 C.F.R. § 21.16.

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

prescribe special conditions for AUV’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, 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).
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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 will 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 Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) 

Section 333, which directs the Secretary of Transportation to determine if certain UAS may 

operate safely in the NAS. As such, 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, the FAA 
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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 within the NAS.
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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) 414-0280