Michael Baker Files its Sec 333 Exemption/Rulemaking Request with the FAA

On March 26th Michael Baker filed with the FAA for permission to fly Its UAS fleet for commercial Operations.

This is a process, and does not happen overnight. However, to operate legally in the US three things are required.

1. Submission (and grant of approval) of a section 333 exemption/rule making request. This is where one asks the FAA to waive some existing requirements that technically do not pertain to UAS. Basic things such as the size of the "N" number (Identifier) applied to the UAS. The current rule states a size that works with traditional aircraft. However, it does not work with the smaller size of the typical UAS. An exemption is needed. There are many identified regulations that require exemption and as such relief must be granted.
2. Registration of the UAS. This process requires submitting for an "N" number and registering the UAS. This entails identifying the specific aircraft (or UAS) Make, Model, Serial # and ownership records.
3. Identification of a licensed pilot to operate as your pilot in command (PIC). While the requirement has been lowered from a commercial pilot to a sport pilot, a pilots license is required.

Approval from the FAA is taking 4 to 6 months currently. Michael Baker expects approval in early July. In the meantime we are testing, training and developing the processes and workflows to support our UAS team.

Michael Baker Adds Additional UAS to its Fleet

Michael Baker Currently owns 4 Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Each system was chosen based on its perspective use. Fixed Wing for larger data capture areas. Multi-Rotors for smaller, tighter areas where true 3D capture is required. Below is a brief description of each system.

Precision Hawk, Inc., Lancaster III. With a wingspan of 4’ and a weight of 3lbs this system is very stable, hand launched and requiring a very small landing area. This system is capable of 45 minutes of flight time ensuring a large coverage area per mission. With multiple payloads; RGB, CIR, Thermal and LiDAR, deliverables available from a single acquisition platform are greatly increased.

DJI Phantom 2 Vision+. One of the most versatile small Multi Rotors available. This system is capable of hovering unaided for surveillance purposes for up to 22 minutes. A 3 axis gimbal ensures that the high definition video captured is smooth and contains no jitter for while in motion. The DJI systems are capable of automated flight along pre-planned waypoints to facilitate image capture for mapping purposes

DJI Phantom 3. The most recent iteration of the Phantom series. This system builds on the functionality of the 2+, adding a Sony camera with an improved focal length for less ‘fish eye” effect in the imagery and 4K video. In addition the Phantom 3 has sensors that can track the ground allowing it to maintain its position indoors and in other location where GPS may not be available.

DJI Inspire 1. Using the technology developed in the Phantom series, DJI created a new air frame that lifts the propeller arms up vertically once it reaches a specific height. This allows the camera pod attached to tilt upwards aiding in inspection of the underside of structures such as bridges. The camera pod itself was designed to be detachable for future payload development.

Our team and systems are in place. Training, testing and development has begun, while we wait for FAA approval to use these systems for commercial use. Stay tuned for more info.