Why does it cost so much to legally operate a drone business? Well, we bet you didn't
know about all the monthly paperwork that companies must file in order to maintain their
"Section 333" ratings. So here ya' go. We must answer all these questions monthly, whether or not we fly.
Reporting Requirements
1. Documentation of all operations associated with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) activities is required regardless of the airspace in which the UAS operates. NOTE: Negative (zero flights) reports are required.
2. The operator must submit the following information through mail to: 9-AJV-115-UASOrganization@faa.gov on a monthly basis:
a. Name of Operator, Exemption number and Aircraft Registration Number
b. UAS type and model
c. All operating locations, to include location city/name and latitude/longitude
d. Number of flights (per location, per aircraft)
e. Total aircraft operational hours
f. Takeoff or Landing damage
g. Equipment malfunctions. Reportable malfunctions include, but are not limited to the following:
(1) On-board flight control system
(2) Navigation system
(3) Powerplant failure in flight
(4) Fuel system failure
(5) Electrical system failure
(6) Control station failure
3. The number and duration of lost link events (control, performance and health monitoring, or communications) per UA per flight.
Staying in compliance with the law is an important aspect of our business.