FAA Certification and Approval Services
Navigate complex FAA requirements from concept to certification.
Section 44807 Exemption
Operating a commercial UAS that weighs more than 55 pounds requires a specialized approval from the FAA known as a Section 44807 Grant of Exemption. Obtaining that approval requires a comprehensive safety case demonstrating that the proposed operation will achieve a level of safety equivalent to that required by the Federal Aviation Regulations.
Airspace Consulting specializes in building professional, FAA-compliant documentation based on decades of aviation experience. We take a systematic approach to operational safety that streamlines the FAA approval process.
Our documentation is developed specifically for FAA certification and defines operational responsibilities, demonstrates risk mitigation, and presents a comprehensive safety case. Airspace Consulting will be your trusted guide through the FAA certification process—from concept to operational approval.
DJI FlyCart 100
MTOW: 375 pounds
DJI Agras T100
MTOW: 386 pounds
Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft
Conducting aerial application activities to dispense pesticides, fertilizers, or seeds from an unmanned aircraft, requires a federal Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate (AAOC). Since aerial applicating drones weigh over 55 pounds, the first step in the process is to obtain a Section 44807 grant of exemption. Our experience preparing FAA exemption documentation will create a certification package that demonstrates operational readiness and a systematic approach to safety. Once the exemption is granted, Form 8710-3 must be submitted to activate your legal status as an aerial applicator.
While the FAA regulates the aircraft and the airspace, state governments regulate the actual chemicals and application practices. Operators must obtain a commercial pesticide applicator license with a specific "aerial" or "unmanned" category endorsement from your state’s Department of Agriculture. Additionally, many states require specialized chemical drift liability insurance and separate state-level agricultural aviation licenses.
Whether transitioning from conventional aerial application to unmanned aircraft or establishing a new agricultural drone operation, Airspace Consulting provides practical guidance and professional documentation to help clients successfully navigate the FAA certification process.
Special Airworthiness Certificate
​Developing and testing advanced unmanned aircraft systems requires a distinct regulatory path. If you are a manufacturer, developer, or operator pushing the boundaries of drone technology, a Special Airworthiness Certificate (SAC) from the FAA. This certificate authorizes flight operations for research and development, crew training, market surveys, and exhibition flights.
To achieve certification, a detailed flight manual, comprehensive risk management strategies, and a rigid maintenance control plan, must be developed to ensure the safety of flight. Airspace Consulting has the experience in creating an operational framework that demonstrates sound flight procedures, risk management, maintenance control, and continued airworthiness for successful certification.
Whether supporting early flight testing of a new aircraft design or preparing for future operational approvals, Airspace Consulting provides practical guidance and professional documentation to help clients successfully navigate the FAA special airworthiness certification process.
