UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

WASHINGTON, DC

IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OF: 

Brandon Phillips

FOR AN EXEMPTION SEEKING RELIEF FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF

TITLE 14 OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

SECTIONS 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1),

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), AND 91.417(a) & (b) CONCERNING COMMERCIAL OPERATION 

OF DJI Phantom 2 AND DJI Phantom 3 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS 

PURSUANT TO SECTION 333 OF

THE FAA MODERNIZATION AND REFORM ACT OF 2012

(PUBLIC LAW 112-95)

Submitted on June 15, 2015

Brandon M. Phillips

1527 Camellia Dr. 

Hammond, LA

985-320-8147

W0332747@selu.edu
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

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

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

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

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

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

NAME AND ADDRESS OF PETITIONER.............................................................7

THE SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF 14 C.F.R. FROM WHICH BRANDON 

PHILLIPS SEEKS EXEMPTION.................................................................8

THE EXTENT OF RELIEF BRANDON PHILLIPS SEEKS AND THE REASON

BRANDON PHILLIPS SEEKS THE RELIEF.........................11

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING BRANDON PHILLIPS’S REQUEST WOULD BE

IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST .........................................................15

THE REASONS WHY GRANTING THE EXEMPTION WOULD NOT ADVERSELY 

AFFECT SAFETY..........................................................................19

SUMMARY THAT CAN BE PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER......34

ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VIEWS, OR ARGUMENTS AVAILABLE TO 

SUPPORT BRANDON PHILLIPS ’S REQUEST.........34

CONCLUSION................................................................................................................35

APPENDICES........................................................................................37
GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGL Above Ground Level

AOI Area of Interest

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATO Air Traffic Organization

AV Aerial Vehicle

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

COA Certificate of Authorization

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAR Federal Aviation Regulation

GCS Ground Control Station

GPS Global Positioning System

LOL Loss of Link

NAS National Airspace System

NOTAM Notice to Airman

PIC Pilot In Command

Section 333 FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA) Section

333

SO Safety Observer

SOP Standard Operating Procedures

UA Unmanned Aircraft

UAS Unmanned Aircraft System

VFR Visual Flight Rules

VLOS Visual Line of Site

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing
SUMMARY

Brandon Phillips seeks exemption from the requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a)

& (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and

91.417(a) & (b), to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System pursuant to Section 333 of the 

FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA). This exemption will permit

BRANDON PHILLIPS to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the commercial 

purpose of conducting aerial video and photography of real estate, construction sites, and 

landscape over certain areas of the United States.

INTRODUCTION AND INTERESTS OF THE PETITIONER

BRANDON PHILLIPS provides his clients with photography and videography of properties

for the purpose of advertising and site development. BRANDON PHILLIPS has hundreds 

of hours flying experience and is a long time member of the AMA. He has over 12 years 

recreational/hobby experience in all aspects of aerial video and photography. The

objective of BRANDON PHILLIPS and his aerial operations is to provide high quality

imaging for a variety of commercial, public, and residential uses, specifically targeting:

• Residential Construction

• Real-estate marketing

• Commercial Construction

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aircraft Systems: DJI Phantom 2, DJI Phantom 3 UASs

BRANDON PHILLIPS seeks an exemption to operate DJI systems for compensation or 

hire within the NAS. The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 are vertical takeoff and 

landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft (UA) with a Ground Control Station (GCS) utilizing

electronic tablet or smart phone systems. The DJI Phantom 2 has a maximum gross 

weight of approximately 2 pounds 11 ounces, while having a length of 16 inches width of

16 inches,
height of 8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 29 knots. The DJI Phantom 3 

has a maximum gross weight of 6 pounds 7.5 ounces, a length of 17.3 inches, width of

17.7 inches, height of 11.8 inches, and a maximum speed of approximately 42 knots. The 

DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3UAs are equipped with four main rotors; driven by 

Lithium Polymer battery powered electric motors.

BASIS FOR PETITION

Petitioner, BRANDON PHILLIPS, pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Aviation 

Regulations (14 C.F.R. § 11.61) and the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 

(FMRA), Section 333, Special Rules for Certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems, hereby 

petitions the Administrator to commercially operate the DJI Phantom 2, DJI Phantom 3

UASs in the National Airspace System (NAS), and for an exemption from the 

requirements of 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a),

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b).

In consideration of the speed, weight, size, and limited operating area associated with the 

unmanned aircraft and its operation, BRANDON PHILLIPS operation of DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3 UASs meets the conditions of FMRA Section 333 and therefore, will 

not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H.

Accordingly, BRANDON PHILLIPS 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.

BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that the requested relief is proper since an equivalent level 

of safety will be ensured. BRANDON PHILLIPS will use experienced personnel or 

technicians to perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs

using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e.,

Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). 

Furthermore, BRANDON PHILLIPS will document and maintain all maintenance records 

for the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs.

Relief from certain requirements of Section 61.113(a) and (b), entitled Private pilot 

privileges and limitations: Pilot in command, is requested by BRANDON PHILLIPS to the 

extent necessary to allow a Pilot in Command (PIC) holding a private pilot or higher level 

certificate, as well as an airman medical certificate, and who has demonstrated, by 

meeting minimum flight- hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely 

operate the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs in a manner consistent with this 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.
BRANDON PHILLIPS seeks relief from Section 91.7(a), entitled Civil aircraft

airworthiness, because the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs do not require an 

airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. As such,

BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that he will ensure that the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI

Phantom 3UASs are in an airworthy condition, prior to every flight, by determining that the

UASs are in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log,

and DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual), and that the aircraft are in a 

condition for safe flight.

BRANDON PHILLIPS also seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section 91.121, 

entitled Altimeter Settings, as the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs will not have a 

typical barometric altimeter onboard. However, altitude information of the DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3UAs will be provided to the PIC via Global Positioning System (GPS) 

equipment and radio communications telemetry data link, which downlinks from the UA to 

the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path. This altitude information, combined with 

BRANDON PHILLIPS’s operation of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs within 

visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure a level of safety equivalent to 

Section 91.121.

Additionally, BRANDON PHILLIPS seeks an exemption from the requirements of Section

91.151(b), entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. BRANDON 

PHILLIPS submits that safety will not be affected by operation of the DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3 UAs during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions

(VMC) under visual flight rules (VFR), with enough battery power to fly for a total

duration of approximately 14.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and,

assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.

In accordance with 14 C.F.R. § 11.81, BRANDON PHILLIPS provides the

following information in support of its petition for exemption:

A. Name And Address Of The Petitioner.

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

BRANDON PHILLIPS

1527 Camellia Dr,

Hammond, LA 70403

985-320-8147

w0332747@selu.ediu
B. The Specific Sections Of 14 C.F.R. From Which BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks

Exemption.

1. BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of

Section

61.113(a) And (b).

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

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

(a) No person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as a pilot in 

command (PIC) of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or property for 

compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as 

PIC of an aircraft.

(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in 

connection with any business or employment if—

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

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

2. BRANDON PHILLIPS 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. BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of

Section 91.121.

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

part:

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or

flight level of that aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that 

is set, when operating--

(1) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to--
(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and 

within 100 nautical miles of the aircraft;

(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. BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks Exemption From The Requirements Of

Section

91.151(b).

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

(b), states the following:

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR 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. BRANDON PHILLIPS 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. BRANDON PHILLIPS 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. BRANDON PHILLIPS 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.

8. BRANDON PHILLIPS 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 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 BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks And The Reason

BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks The Relief.

1. Extent Of Relief Brandon Phillips, Seeks And The Reason Brandon 

Phillips, 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 PIC holding a private pilot or 

higher level certificate, as well as a current and valid airman medical certificate, and who 

has met certain flight-hour and currency requirements, to conduct the proposed UAS flight 

operations for compensation or hire.

This relief is requested since the limitations set forth in Section 61.113(a) and (b) state 

that a private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as PIC of an aircraft in connection 

with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business or
employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation 

or hire.

As set forth more fully below, BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that an equivalent level of

safety will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI Phantom 2 

UAS or DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has met certain flight-hour and currency 

requirements, demonstrating that the PIC is able to safely operate either the DJI Phantom

2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the operations specifications as 

described in this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers, as well as 

maintaining appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Further, BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that all flights of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI

Phantom

3 UASs, conducted by the PIC pursuant to the grant of this Petition: (1) will be incidental 

to BRANDON PHILLIPS’s business; and (2) will not carry passengers or property for 

compensation or hire.

2. Extent Of Relief BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks And The Reason

BRANDON PHILLIPS 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 BRANDON PHILLIPS to determine that the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs are in airworthy condition prior to every flight by ensuring that the UAS 

is in compliance with the operating documents (i.e., the BRANDON PHILLIPS Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3

Instruction Manual).

BRANDON PHILLIPS seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs do not require an airworthiness certificate in accordance with 14 C.F.R. 

Part 21, Subpart H. Therefore, BRANDON PHILLIPS will ensure that the DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3 UASs are in airworthy condition based upon its compliance with the 

operating documents (i.e., Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) prior to every flight, and further, determine that the aircraft 

are in condition for safe flight, as stated in the conditions and limitations below.

3. Extent Of Relief BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks And The Reason

BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks Relief From Section 91.121.

Relief from Section 91.121, entitled Altimeter settings, may be required to allow flight 

operations of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, which utilize a barometric 

pressure sensor, GPS equipment, and a radio communications telemetry data link to 

downlink altitude information from the UA to the PIC at the ground control station (GCS). 

Since the FAA requires that any altitude information concerning UAS operations be
reported to air traffic control (ATC) in feet above ground level (AGL), BRANDON 

PHILLIPS seeks the requested relief because the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 

UA’s altimeter may be set on the ground to zero feet AGL, rather than the local 

barometric pressure or field altitude, before each flight.

Considering the limited altitude of the proposed operations, relief from 14 CFR 91.121 is 

sought to the extent necessary to comply with the applicable conditions and limitations 

stated below. As more fully set forth herein, an equivalent level of safety will be maintained 

since the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs are equipped with a barometric

pressure sensor and GPS equipment, which automatically ensures that a ground level 

pressure setting will be established prior to each flight, and provides the PIC with altitude 

information of the UA on the heads-up display of the GCS.

4. Extent Of Relief BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks And The Reason

BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks Relief From Section 91.151(b).

Relief from Section 91.151(b) entitled Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions, is 

requested to the extent required to allow flights of the battery powered DJI Phantom 2 and 

DJI Phantom 3 UAs during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC),

under visual flight rules (VFR), for a total duration of 14.5 minutes to the first point of 

intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 

minutes. BRANDON PHILLIPS seeks the requested relief because without an exemption

from Section 91.151(b), the flight time duration of the battery powered DJI Phantom 2 and 

DJI Phantom 3 UAs will severely constrain the practicality of any aerial video or still photo

flight operations that BRANDON PHILLIPS proposes to conduct pursuant to this Petition.

Significantly, as set forth below, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 operating documents, and 

BRANDON PHILLIPS’s proposed operating limitations, ensure that BRANDON PHILLIPS

will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs during 

daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), under visual flight rules (VFR), 

with enough battery power to fly for a total duration of 14.5 minutes to the first point of 

intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 

minutes.

5. Extent Of Relief BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks And The Reason BRANDON 

PHILLIPS 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, BRANDON PHILLIPS requests relief

from these Sections because the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs do not

require
airworthiness certificates. As set forth more fully below, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs meet the conditions of FMRA Section 333 for operation without an 

airworthiness certificate. Accordingly, BRANDON PHILLIPS will use trained technicians to 

perform maintenance, alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the 

methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in the UAS operating documents (i.e., the 

BRANDON PHILLIPS Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI

Phantom

2 and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual). Furthermore, BRANDON PHILLIPS will 

document and maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom

3 UASs.

D. The Reasons Why Granting BRANDON PHILLIPS 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 BRANDON 

PHILLIPS to safely, efficiently, and economically perform aerial video and photography of

real estate, and landscape over certain areas of the United States.

Additionally, use of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs will decrease congestion 

of the NAS, reduce pollution, and provide significant benefits to the economy. Notably, the 

benefits of BRANDON PHILLIPS’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs will be realized without implicating any privacy issues.

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

The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs are battery powered and serve as a safe, 

efficient, and economical alternative to the manned aircraft traditionally utilized to obtain 

aerial imagery. By reducing the amount of manned aircraft needed to perform aerial 

acquisitions, an exemption allowing the use of a DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS 

would reduce the amount of manned aircraft in the NAS, reduce noise and air pollution, as 

well as increase the safety of life and property in the air and on the ground.

Furthermore, by reducing the number of manned aircraft operating in the NAS, congestion 

around airports caused by arriving and departing aircraft will be reduced. The DJI

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs do not require an airport to takeoff or land. Likewise, a 

reduction of manned aircraft conducting aerial video and photography missions would 

result in fewer aircraft that must be handled by air traffic control during the ground, takeoff, 

departure, arrival, and landing phases of flight operations.

2. The Public Will Benefit From The Safety And Efficiency Of The DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs.

Conducting aerial acquisitions with the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, instead 

of manned aircraft, will greatly benefit the public by drastically reducing the levels of air
and noise pollution generated during traditional aerial video and still photography flight 

operations. By using battery power and electric motors, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs produce no air pollution, and is the most viable environmentally 

conscious alternative to the cabin class, six cylinder internal combustion engine aircraft 

that are typically utilized for aerial video and photography, while burning approximately

20-30 gallons per hour of leaded aviation fuel. The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3

UAs, while reducing the carbon footprint of aerial acquisitions, also eliminates noise 

pollution, as the UAs are propelled by battery powered electric motors, rather than an 

internal combustion engine.

By using the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs to perform aerial acquisitions, the 

substantial risk to life and property in the air and on the ground, which is usually 

associated with traditional manned aircraft flight operations, will be substantially reduced 

or completely eliminated. Aside from the lack of flight crew members located onboard the 

aircraft, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs (weighing approximately 2 pounds 11 

ounces and 6 pounds 7.5 ounces respectively, at their maximum gross weights with 

lengths of 16 inches and 17.3 inches respectively, widths of 16 inches and 17.7 inches 

respectively, and with no fuel on board), has less physical potential for collateral damage 

to life and property on the ground, and in the air, compared to the manned aircraft that 

typically conduct similar operations (weighing approximately 6,000 pounds with a

wingspan of approximately 42 feet, a length of 34 feet, and a fuel capacity of 180 gallons).

3. Performing Aerial Video and Photography Operations With The DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs Will Benefit The Economy.

In addition to being safe and efficient, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs are 

also an economical alternative to using manned aircraft to conduct similar aerial 

operations. As such, operation of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs will allow 

United States based companies, like BRANDON PHILLIPS, to remain competitive and 

contribute to growth of the U.S. economy. Specifically, with the rising cost of aviation fuel 

and the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) regulatory actions phasing out leaded 

aviation fuels, U.S. owned and operated companies must adopt new and alternative 

technology in order to remain competitive. Operating the battery powered DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3 UASs is one such technology that not only allows companies greater 

operational flexibility compared to manned aircraft, but provides such flexibility without the 

high operational cost of a traditional manned aircraft.

By operating the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, companies such as 

BRANDON PHILLIPS, can remain competitive and profitable, and therefore, provide 

greater job stability to employees and contractors, which will ultimately contribute to

growth of the U.S. economy. Improved financial performance of U.S. companies,

through commercial use of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, provides a 

stable workforce that

increases consumer spending; improves local, state, and federal tax revenues; and allows
companies to invest in research and development in order to remain competitive both in 

the United States and abroad.

4. There Are No Privacy Issues.

Similar to the manned aerial acquisition flight operations that have been conducted for 

decades, BRANDON PHILLIPS’s proposed operation of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI

Phantom

3 UASs will not implicate any privacy issues. Specifically, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs will be operated only in compliance with operating documents (i.e., the 

BRANDON PHILLIPS Aerial Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI

Phantom

2 and DJI Phantom 3 Instruction Manual) which requires property owner involvement as 

well as local law enforcement notification, and in accordance with the Federal Aviation 

Regulations, including the minimum altitude requirements of 14 C.F.R. § 91.119.

E. The Reasons Why Granting The Exemption Would Not Adversely Affect Safety, 

Or How The Exemption Would Provide A Level Of Safety At Least Equal To That 

Provided By The Rule From Which BRANDON PHILLIPS Seeks Exemption.

1. Reasons Why The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 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 its operation, BRANDON PHILLIPS’s operation of the DJI

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs 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

(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, BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs can operate safely in the NAS pursuant to FMRA Section 333, as 

demonstrated by: (a) the characteristics of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs; 

(b) the pilot certification requirement; and (c) the specific operating limitations.

a. The Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs

Demonstrate Its Safe Characteristics.

The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs do not create a hazard to users of the NAS 

or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security considering its size, weight, 

speed, and operational capability.

i. Technical Specifications Of The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3

UASs.

The technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs are set forth 

by the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals, attached hereto as Appendix A 

and B.
ii. The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs Autonomous Flight 

And Navigation Modes Enable The UASs To Remain Within A 

Defined Operational Area.

The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs may be operated in both manual and fully 

autonomous flight modes. A complete description of the flight and navigational modes of 

the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs is provided at pages 25-35 of the DJI 

Phantom 2 and pages 12-16 and 45-50 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals, attached 

hereto as Appendix A and B.

iii. The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs Are Designed For 

Automatic Return To Home Point Or Hover In The Event Of Loss 

Of The Control Link Or Navigation.

When the Control Link is lost, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs will remain 

stationary, in flight, for 3 seconds or more. If, after 3 seconds, the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UAs do not reacquire control link data from the GCS, the UAs will assume that 

the Control Link is lost and the UAs will return to the home position (i.e., failsafe mode) via 

GPS, and will descend to the takeoff position and shutdown.

A complete description of the Failsafe Functions of the DJI Phantom 2 UAS are set forth 

at pages 27 through 29 and for the DJI Phantom 3 at pages 13 through 15 of the DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals, attached hereto as Appendix A and B.

iv. The DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 GCS And Its Operation.

A complete description of the operation and specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 GCS and flight control software is provided at pages 32 through 43 of the DJI 

Phantom 2 User Manual and pages 40 through 47 of the DJI Phantom 3 User Manual. DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals are attached hereto as Appendix A and B.

b. Flight Operations Of DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs Are 

Limited To The Line Of Sight Of A Certificated Pilot in Command With A 

Safety Observer.

BRANDON PHILLIPS will be the only person to act as a pilot in command (PIC) of the

DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs. Additionally, a safety observer will assist in 

flights.
c. Flights Of DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs Will Be

Conducted Pursuant To Specific Operating Limitations.

In seeking this exemption, BRANDON PHILLIPS proposes to commercially operate DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs for the special purpose of conducting aerial video 

and photography over certain areas of United States, pursuant to the following specific 

operating limitations:

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption will be limited to the 

following aircraft described in the operating documents, rotorcraft UASs 

weighing less than 55 pounds maximum gross weight: DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Proposed operations of any other 

aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this grant.

2. UAS operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations 

for the purpose of aerial video and photography.

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

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 500 feet above 

ground level (AGL), as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating 

documents unless a special request is made and approved by ATC. All altitudes 

reported to ATC must be in feet AGL.

5. The UAs must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all 

times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any 

device other than corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued 

airman medical certificate.

6. The use of first person view (FPV) by the PIC or safety observer (SO) is not 

permitted.

7. All operations must utilize a safety observer (SO). The SO may be used to 

satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS
capability. The SO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times. 

Electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The 

PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her 

designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the SO can 

perform the functions prescribed in the operating documents.

8. The SO must not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with 

seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/ 

obstructions and is not permitted to operate the camera or other instruments.

9. The operating documents and the grant of exemption must be accessible 

during UAS operations and made available to the Administrator upon request. If 

a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations contained in the 

grant of exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the 

conditions and limitations contained in the grant of exemption take precedence 

and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow the 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.

10. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure that it is in a 

condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the 

safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the 

necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is found to be in a 

condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the 

preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly 

documented in the aircraft records.

11. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the 

UAS operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical 

component, must undergo a functional test flight. The PIC who conducts the 

functional test flight must make an entry in the aircraft records.
12. The pre-flight inspection must account for all potential discrepancies, e.g. 

inoperable components, items, or equipment, not already covered in the 

relevant sections of the operating documents.

13. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer’s aircraft/component, 

maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements.

14. The operator must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record 

keeping requirements, in accordance with the operating documents. 

Maintenance, inspection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul 

component parts must be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in 

service, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized 

person returning the UAS to service.

15. Each UASs operated under this exemption must comply with all 

manufacturer Safety Bulletins.

16. The authorized person must make an entry in the aircraft record of the 

corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections.

17. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and at least a 

current third- class medical certificate.

18. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets the 

operator’s qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate 

the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated under the 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining 

appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC 

qualification flight hours must be logged in a manner consistent with 14 C.F.R.

§ 61.51(b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator’s PICs are 

permitted under the terms of the exemption. However, training operations may 

only be conducted during dedicated 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 C.F.R. §

91.119.

19. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 C.F.R.

§ 1.1. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions 

(VMC). If flight at night is required, a special request will be made at the FAA 

office closest to proposed area of operations. Flights under special visual flight 

rules (SVFR) are not authorized.

20. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference 

point as denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart unless a letter 

of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is 

conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. 

The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available 

to the Administrator upon request.

21. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 

feet horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from 

the PIC.

22. If the UA loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it must return to a 

pre- determined location within the planned operating area and land or be 

recovered in accordance with the operating documents.

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

emergencies in accordance with the operating documents.

24. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and 

forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising 

speed to the intended landing point and land the UA with 25% battery power 

remaining.
25. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued 

Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations 

under the grant of exemption. This COA will also require the operator to 

request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but 

not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations shall be conducted 

in accordance with airspace requirements in the ATO issued COA including 

class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements.

26. All aircraft operated in accordance with the 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. Markings must be as large as practicable.

27. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for 

operation and control of the UA must comply with the Federal Communications 

Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency 

requirements.

28. The documents required fewer than 14 C.F.R. 91.9 and 91.203 must be 

available to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the 

UAS is operating. These documents must be made available to the 

Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

29. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation 

operations and activities at all times.

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

31. Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all 

nonparticipating persons (persons other than the PIC, SO, operator trainees or 

essential persons), vessels, vehicles, and structures unless:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect 

nonparticipating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an
accident. The operator must ensure that nonparticipating persons 

remain under such protection. If a situation arises where

nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of 

the UA, flight operations must cease immediately and/or;

b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the 

owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted 

permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of 

operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present 

an undue hazard, and;

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, SO, operator trainees or essential 

persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per §

91.119(a).

32. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property 

with permission from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from land owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted.

33. Any incident, accident, or flight operation 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.

2. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

61.113(a) And (b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that the equivalent level of safety established by Section

61.113(a) and (b) will be maintained because no PIC will be allowed to operate the DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting 

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

DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the exemption,
including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate distances from 

people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Considering BRANDON PHILLIPS’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 DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3

UAS, BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that the additional manned airmanship experience 

of a commercially certificated pilot would not correlate to the airmanship skills necessary 

for BRANDON PHILLIPS’s specific proposed flight operations.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 61.113(a) and (b) specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption 

Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136,

11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

BRANDON PHILLIPS will not allow any PIC to operate the DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom

3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by meeting minimum flight-hour requirements or 

the DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS training and currency requirements, that the PIC

is able to safely operate the DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent

with this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining

appropriate distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

Specifically, the PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14

C.F.R. § 61.51(b), 25 hours of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot (with a minimum of 5 

hours of those hours as a UAS pilot operating the same make and model of UAS to be 

used for operations under the exemption). In addition to the hour requirements, the PIC 

must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for currency 

purposes).

As in Exemption Nos. 11062, 11138, and 11153, prior documented flight experience that 

was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations will ensure an equivalent level of 

safety during BRANDON PHILLIPS’s proposed operations. The Administrator has held 

that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable 

regulations would ensure safe operations, stating as follows:

In Exemption No. 11062, the FAA required that prior to conducting operations for 

the purpose of motion picture filming (or similar operations), the PIC must have 

accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR 61.51(b), 25 hours 

of total time as a UAS rotorcraft pilot including at least 10 hours logged as a UAS 

pilot with a multi-rotor UAS. Prior to operations under Exemption No. 11062, the 

PIC must also have accumulated and logged a minimum of 5 hours as a UAS pilot 

operating the same make and model of UAS to be used for operations under the 

exemption. For clarification, the FAA considers these minimum hour requirements 

to be inclusive rather than additive; i.e. 5 hours make and model time may be
included in the 10 hours of multi-rotor time and the 10 hours may be included in 

the total 25 hours of UAS rotorcraft time. In addition to the hour requirements, the 

PIC must accomplish 3 takeoffs and landings in the preceding 90 days (for 

currency purposes). The FAA finds that at a minimum, the flight-hour requirements 

in Exemption No. 11062 are appropriate to practice and build proficiency in the 

skills necessary to safely conduct the petitioner’s proposed operations. The FAA 

also finds that prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance 

with applicable regulations would satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency,

and experience-building flights can also be conducted under the grant of 

exemption to accomplish the required flight time. During training, proficiency, and 

experience-building flights the PIC is required to operate the UA with appropriate 

distances in accordance with 14 C.F.R 91.119.

Exemption No. 11138 at page 15.

Accordingly, BRANDON PHILLIPS will ensure safe operations by not allowing any PIC to 

operate the DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS unless that PIC has demonstrated, by 

meeting minimum flight-hour and currency requirements, that the PIC is able to safely 

operate the DJI Phantom 2 or DJI Phantom 3 UAS in a manner consistent with the 

exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and maintaining appropriate 

distances from people, vessels, vehicles and structures.

3. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.7(a) 

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.7(a) will be maintained because 

prior to every flight, BRANDON PHILLIPS will ensure that the DJI Phantom 2 or DJI

Phantom

3 UAS is in an airworthy condition based upon the UAS’s compliance with its operating 

documents and as stated in the conditions and limitations herein.

Additionally, the FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.7(a) specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption 

Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136,

11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

4. Reasons Why A Exemption From The Requirements Of Section 91.121

Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

The equivalent level of safety established by Section 91.121 will be maintained because 

the altitude information of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs will be provided to
the PIC via GPS equipment and a radio communications telemetry data link, which 

downlinks from the UA to the GCS for active monitoring of the flight path and altitude. This 

altitude information, combined with BRANDON PHILLIPS’s operation of the DJI Phantom

2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAs within visual line of sight, at or below 500 feet AGL, will ensure 

a level of safety equivalent to Section 91.121. The altitude information will be generated by 

GPS equipment installed onboard the aircraft. Prior to each flight, a zero altitude initiation 

point is automatically established by the UASs at ground level.

The FAA has previously granted relief from Section 91.121 specific to UAS, in 

circumstances similar, in all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption 

Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11112, 11136, 11138,

11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

5. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Section

91.151(b) Would Not Adversely Affect Safety.

A grant of this exemption would ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14

C.F.R. Section 91.151(b) as a result of (1) the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom

2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs; (2) the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and (3) 

the location of the proposed flight operations. Accordingly, BRANDON PHILLIPS will 

ensure that it will safely operate the battery powered DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 

UAs during daylight hours in VFR conditions, with enough battery power to fly for a total 

duration of 13.5 minutes to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal 

cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 4.5 minutes.

Here, as in Exemption No. 11109, the technical specifications of the DJI Phantom 2 and 

DJI Phantom 3 UASs; the limitations on the proposed flight operations; and the location of 

the proposed operations, will ensure an equivalent level of safety established by 14 C.F.R. 

Section 91.151(b). Furthermore, safety will be ensured as the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC at the GCS when the

UAs experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% 

remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the 

critically low battery level, the DJI Phantom Vision+ and DJI Phantom 3 UASs will

descend and land automatically.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Section 91.151 

establish that safety is not adversely affected when the technical characteristics and 

operating limitations of the UAS are considered. Relief has been granted for manned 

aircraft to operate at less than the minimums prescribed in Section 91.151, 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, 11150, 11153, 11156,

11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

6. Reasons Why An Exemption From The Requirements Of Sections

91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), And 91.417(a) & (b) Would Not

Adversely Affect Safety.

In seeking this exemption, BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that the equivalent level of

safety with regard to the regulatory maintenance and alteration requirements established

by Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) will be 

met because BRANDON PHILLIPS will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, 

alterations, or preventive maintenance on the UASs using the methods, techniques, and 

practices prescribed in the operating documents (i.e., the BRANDON PHILLIPS Aerial 

Operations Manual, Monthly Maintenance Log, and DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3

Instruction Manual). Furthermore, BRANDON PHILLIPS will document and 

maintain all maintenance records for the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs.

Since the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs will be inspected as prescribed by the 

operating documents, BRANDON PHILLIPS will maintain the equivalent level of safety 

established by Sections 91.405(a), 91.409(a)(1), and 91.409(a)(2). A copy of the DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 User Manuals are attached hereto as Appendix A and B; a 

copy of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UAS Maintenance LOG is attached hereto 

as Appendix C.

Likewise, the exemption sought will not adversely affect safety because BRANDON 

PHILLIPS

will use trained technicians to perform maintenance, alterations or preventive 

maintenance on the UAS using the methods, techniques, and practices prescribed by the 

operating documents.

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

established by Sections 91.407, 91.417(a) and 91.417(b), because all maintenance of the 

DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs will be performed by trained technicians. 

Maintenance will be documented and maintained utilizing the monthly maintenance log.

Significantly, previous exemptions granted by the FAA concerning Sections 91.405(a),

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b) establish that safety is not 

adversely affected when the technical characteristics and operating limitations of the UAS 

are considered.

In consideration of BRANDON PHILLIPS’s proposed operating limitations, the operating 

documents, and the technical aspects of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, 

BRANDON PHILLIPS submits that safety will not be adversely affected by granting

exemption from 14 C.F.R. Sections 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1) and (a)(2), 91.409(a)(2), and 

91.417(a) and (b). The FAA has previously granted relief specific to UAS in circumstances

similar, in
all material respects, to those presented herein (e.g. Exemption Nos. 11062, 11063,

11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153,

11156, 11157, 11158, 11159, 11160, 11161).

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

In accordance with Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (FMRA)

and 14 C.F.R. § 21.16 entitled Special Conditions, BRANDON PHILLIPS requests that the 

FAA prescribe special conditions for the intended operation of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI 

Phantom 3 UASs, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator finds 

necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R. Part 21, 

Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R §§ 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7 (a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a),

91.407(a)(1), 91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b). Such special conditions will 

permit safe operation of the UAs for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States for compensation or hire. FMRA 

Section 333 sets forth the requirements for considering whether a UAS will create a 

hazard to users of the NAS or the public, or otherwise pose a threat to national security; 

and further, provides the authority for such UAS to operate without airworthiness 

certification in accordance with any requirements that must be established for the safe 

operation of the UAS in the NAS.

Likewise, the Administrator may prescribe special conditions pursuant to 14 C.F.R.

§ 21.16, for operation of the DJI Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, 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 Leading Edge’s intended operation of the DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3 UASs, which contain such safety standards that the Administrator 

finds necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by 14 C.F.R.
Part 21, Subpart H, and 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b),

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

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

stating: The Rules From Which Brandon Phillips Seeks Exemption:

BRANDON PHILLIPS 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 BRANDON 

PHILLIPS Seeks:

This exemption will permit BRANDON PHILLIPS to commercially operate an 

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States.

• Any Additional Information, Views, Or Arguments Available To

Support BRANDON PHILLIPS’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, BRANDON PHILLIPS’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, BRANDON PHILLIPS will operate the DJI Phantom 2 and 

DJI Phantom 3 UASs 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, BRANDON PHILLIPS 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 Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs commercially, 

without an airworthiness certificate, for the limited purpose of conducting aerial video and 

photography over certain areas of the United States. By granting this Petition, the FAA 

Administrator will be fulfilling the Congressional mandate of the FAA Modernization and 

Reform Act of 2012, while also advancing the interests of the public, by allowing 

BRANDON PHILLIPS to safely, efficiently, and economically operate the DJI Phantom 2 

and DJI Phantom 3 UASs commercially within the NAS.

WHEREFORE, in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations and the FAA 

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Section 333, BRANDON PHILLIPS respectfully 

requests that the Administrator grant this Petition for an exemption from the requirements 

of 14 C.F.R Sections 61.113(a) & (b), 91.7(a), 91.121, 91.151(b), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(1),

91.409(a)(1) & (a)(2), and 91.417(a) & (b), and permit Leading Edge to operate the DJI 

Phantom 2 and DJI Phantom 3 UASs commercially for the purpose of conducting aerial 

video and photography over certain areas of the United States.

Dated: April 20, 2015

Respectfully submitted, 

BRANDON PHILLIPS

1527 Camellia Dr.

Hammond, LA 70403

985-320-8147
Appendices:

A – DJI Phantom 2 Manual:

B – DJI Phantom 3 Specifications Data Sheet

C – Monthly Maintenance Log

D- DJI Phantom Users Guide

APPENDIX – A

DJI PHANTOM 2 VISION+ TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Brandon Phillips only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small 

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight to 

a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude and 

location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices)

1.1 DJI Phantom 2 Vision+

1.1.1 Aircraft

1.1.1.1 Supported Battery – DJI 5200mAH LiPo Battery

1.1.1.2 Weight (Battery & Propellers Included) – 2lbs 11.810oz (1242g)

1.1.1.3 Hover Accuracy (Ready to Fly) – Vertical: .8m; Horizontal: 2.5m

1.1.1.4 Max Yaw Angular Velocity - 2000/s

1.1.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 2m/s

1.1.1.8 Max Flight Speed – 15m/s (NOT RECOMMENDED)

1.1.2 Gimbal
1.1.2.1 Working Current – Static: 750mA; Dynamic: 900mA

1.1.2.2 Control Accuracy - ±0.030

1.1.3 Camera

1.1.3.1 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

1.1.3.3 Effective Pixels – 14M

1.1.3.4 Resolution – 4384x3288

4.1.3.5 HD Video Recording – 1080p30 & 720p

4.1.3.6 Recording Field of View - 1100/850

1.1.4 Transmitter

1.1.4.1 Operating Frequency – 5.728GHz – 5.85GHz

1.1.4.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – FCC Compliance: 800m

1.1.4.3 Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) - -93dBm

1.1.4.4 Transmitter Power – FCC Compliance: 100mW

1.1.4.5 Working Voltage – 120mA@3.7V

1.1.5 Range Extender

1.1.5.1 Operating Frequency – 2412-2462MHz

1.1.5.2 Communication Distance (unobstructed) – 500-700m

1.1.5.3 Transmitter Power – 20dBm

1.1.5.4 Power Consumption – 2W

APPENDIX – B

DJI Phantom 3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Brandon Phillips only utilizes safe and reliable UASs. DJI is an industry leader in small 

UAS production. DJI UASs are loaded with ground breaking software enabling the user to 

set parameters which will not allow flight into controlled airspace. Parameters can also be 

set to limit flight to no higher than a predetermined and set altitude as well as limit flight to 

a predetermined and set distance. In addition, DJI software provides real-time altitude and 

location information to the PIC via the linked monitor (smart phone/tablet devices)

2.2 DJI Inspire 1

2.2.1 Aircraft

2.2.1.1 Model – Phantom 3

2.2.1.2 Weight (Battery Included) – 1280 grams

2.2.1.3 Hovering Accuracy (GPS Mode) – Vertical: +/- 10cm; Horizontal:

+/-1m

2.2.1.4 Max Angular Velocity –Yaw: 2000/s

2.2.1.7 Max Descent Speed – 3m/s

2.2.1.8 Max Speed – 16m/s (ATTI mode, no wind – NOT RECOMMENDED)

2.2.1.9 Max Flight Altitude – 6000m

2.2.1.10 Max Flight Time – Approximately 23 minutes

2.2.1.12 Motor Model – DJI 3510

2.2.1.13 Propeller Model – DJI 1345

2.2.1.14 Operating Temperature Range – 140F to 1040F (-100C to 400C)

”

2.2.2 Gimbal

2.2.2.1 Model – ZENMUSE X3

2.2.2.2 Output Power (with camera) – Static: 9W; In Motion: 11W

2.2.2.3 Operating Current – Static: 750mA; In Motion: 900mA

2.2.2.4 Angular Vibration Range - ±0.030
2.2.2.5 Mounting – Detachable

2.2.2.6 Controllable Range – Pitch: -900 to +300; Pan: ±3200

2.2.3 Camera

2.2.3.1 Name – Sony EXMOR

2.2.3.2 Model – 12.4M Pixel

2.2.3.3 Total Pixels – 12.4M

2.2.3.4 Effective Pixels – 12.76M

2.2.3.5 Image Max Size – 4000x3000

2.2.3.6 ISO Range – 100-3200

2.2.3.7 Field of View - 940

2.2.3.9 HD Video Recording – UHD(4K): 4096x2160p24/25,

3840x2160p24/25/30; FHD: 1920x1080p24/25/30/48/50/60; HD:

1280x720p24/25/30/48/50/60

2.2.3.10 Operating Temperature Range - 320F - 1040F (00C - 400C)

2.2.4 Transmitter

2.2.4.1 Name – C1

2.2.4.2 Operating Frequency – 5.728-5.850GHz; 2.400-2.483GHz

2.2.4.3 Communicating Distance (unobstructed) – 2000m

2.2.4.4 Output Power – 9W

2.2.4.5 Operating Temperature Range - 140F to 1040F (-100C to 400C)