2014 Seed Orchard UAS Surveys- Project Aviation Safety Plan
2014 Seed Orchard UAS Surveys- Project Aviation Safety Plan
Mission:Aerial Imagery / Project Name:Seed Orchard Surveys / Unit:Salem and Eugene Districts, BLMAnticipated Project Date: week of July 28-31, 2014 / Start Time: TBA (post sunrise) / Ending Time:TBA(NTE sunset)
Project Plan Prepared and Reviewed by: /s/: Kurt Kleiner / Title:BLM OR-WA State Aviation Mgr. / Date:6/22/2014
Note: Signature by the preparer verifies that all personnel have the required training for the mission. Maps will be attached to emails when this document is forwarded for signature, clearly showing areas to be flown; aerial hazards must be indicated.
Project Plan Reviewed by: /s/ Jeff Safran / Title:Project Leader / Date:6/27/14
Project Plan Reviewed by: /s/ / Title: Unit Aviation Officer-Salem Dist. / Date:
Project Plan Reviewed by: /s/ / Title:Unit Aviation Officer-Eugene Dist. / Date:
This Flight is Approved by: /s/ / Title:BLM Salem District Manager / Date:
This Flight is Approved by: /s/ / Title: BLM Eugene District Manager / Date:
Background and justification:
Seed is produced at BLM managed seed orchard facilities in western Oregon for use by BLM and contributing cooperators for forest restoration treatments and reforestation. Surveys are traditionallyconducted each year by personnel on the ground to estimate cone crops. Not all cones are visible from the ground, and ambient lighting often makes it difficult determine accurate individual-tree cone crop levels early enough in the growing season for procurement actions to be completed and to meet cooperators’ planning needs. Helicopters with personnel on board have not been utilized in the past due to the excessive cost and inherent risk. It is believed that the use of UAS technology in future cone counts will significantly enhance the ability to meet the goals and objectives of the seed orchard program. The mission is an experimental proof-of-concept attempt to improve the accuracy of future cone counts.
Project Description:
This project will utilize a DOI approved/owned/operated Raven and T-Hawk UAS’ to digitally image coniferous cones in tree crowns using color and near infrared technology. Mission will test the techniques and capabilities of the Raven and T-hawk UAS’ at various altitudes for cone surveys and mapping. Additional surveys may be planned for subsequent years with an overall goal of establishing a GIS cone data-set to be used for planning future treatment actions and preparing contracts.
The BLM Oregon Seed Orchard UAS survey has been coordinated through the Dept. of Interior-Office of Aviation Services, the DOI National Operations Center, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the BLM Oregon/Washington State Office, and the BLM National Aviation Office in accordance with all DOI and BLM Aviation policies, and the BLM National Aviation Plan, Sec. 5.29. Flight operations will be consistent with the DOI/FAA Memorandum of Agreement or through an approved FAA Certificate of Authorization or COA, #4441 in accordance with 14CFR, Federal Aviation Regulations.
Locations:
The first project area is at the Horning Seed Orchardlocated near Colton, OR (Clackamas County), onSalem District BLM,at the approximate Lat./Long: 45° 12.295’ N x 122° 23.425’ W.
The second project area is located at theTyrrell Seed OrchardnearLorane, OR (Lane County), on Eugene District BLM, atapproximate Lat./Long.: 43° 50.724’ N x 123° 16.894’ W.
Dates:
The Horning Orchard survey is scheduled for July 28-29, 2014, and the Tyrrell Orchard will be surveyed on July 30-31, 2014. (The number and duration of individual flights is described below.) August 1 is reserved as an alternate mission day in the event weather or technical difficulties preclude the missions from being completed within the initial projected four-day period.
Operational parameters:
UAS flights will maintain line of sight at all times and not exceed 400 Feet AGL at each project flight location. Flights will be conducted during daylight hours with approximately 2 to 3 (1 hour) flights per day at each site. The flights will not exceed more than 60-90 minutes in duration per flight. Flight operations at both sites will not be flown concurrently. The same flight crew will conduct flight missions in both areas. Flights will be launched and returned within the boundaries and parameters of the approved FAA COA, and will remain in Class G uncontrolled airspace at all times. All UAS aircraft that may be used on this project have been inspected and approved/carded by DOI-OAS, and all pilots/operators have also been OAS-approved and carded to perform this mission.
The mission will take place away from people, vehicles, or structures on the surface, in a very sparsely populated area, and no closer than 8 miles from any general aviation airport. The operators are trained, certified, experienced, and knowledgeable in UAS operations.
The overall risk rating for this project is Moderateas determined by the risk assessment shown below.
Attachments: Maps Other:
Project Manager:Jeanette Griese –Reforestation Services Supervisor / Phone:575-479-6124 / Cell: 575-479-6124
Mike Crawford - Seed Orchard Program Mgr. / Phone: 541-767-0460 / Cell:
Project Aviation Manager:Jeff Safran-Physical Scientist-GIS / Phone: 303-236-2315 / Cell:
PIC:Jeff Safran Physical Scientist / Phone:303-236-2315 / Cell:
PIC:Lance R. Brady – USGS UAS Pilot / Phone: / Cell:928-965-4345
PIC:Mark Bauer–USGS UAS Pilot / Phone: / Cell:303-949-9359
Salem District Aviation Manager: Jake Dollard / Phone:503-375-5622 / Cell:
Eugene District Aviation Manager: Sean Stafford / Phone: 541-225-6402 / Cell: 575-973-4106
BLM OR/WA StateAviation Manager: Kurt Kleiner / Phone: 503-808-6593 / Cell:971-338-3091
Dispatch Center: Coastal Valley Interagency Communication Center (Salem District) / Phone:541-750-7042 / Cell: 503-551-6576
Dispatch Center: Eugene Interagency Communication Center (Eugene District) / Phone: 541-225-6400 / Cell: 541-954-7769
Mission: Aerial Photography / Cost Code:L63200000.HL0000 LLOR931000 (estimate $1500 for operators’ travel costs)
UAS Kit# / Make & Model:Honeywell RQ-16 T-Hawk GMAV and Raven RQ-11a.
The T-Hawk UAV is a remotely piloted rotorcraft that weighs about 20 lbs. It has a flight endurance of 45 minutes, and an effective radius of about 6.2 miles. Flying speed ranges from 0 to 45 mph. Typical operating altitude of 100-1000 ft. AGL.
The characteristics of the T-Hawk are:
Length 2 ft. 6 inches, Weight 20 lbs.
Engine 1X3w-56 56 cc Boxer Twin Piston engine, 4 HP.
Fuel requirement: 100 LL Aviation fuel mixed with full synthetic 2-stroke oil.
Max Cruising Speed-45 mph; Range-6.2 miles
Service Ceiling: 10,000 ft. density altitude; Flight time- 45 minutes
The Raven-A small unmanned aerial vehicle (SUAV) is a hand-launched reconnaissance and surveillance tool. The system employs a self-stabilizing aircraft configuration with stability augmentation avionics to provide ease of control and steady video imagery. It transmits live airborne video images, compass headings and location information to a ground control unit (GCU) and remote video terminal (RVT). The system optics package includes an electro-optical (EO) color camera nose payload (side and forward-looking on the same payload) and two infrared (IR) thermal nose payloads. The Raven system is typically operated by a two person team consisting of a operator and mission controller. The aircraft characteristics are:
Wingspan-55in., Length -36in. Weight 4.2 lbs. Payload Nose Weight 6.5 oz.
Structure: Modular, Kevlar composite
Operating Altitude: 150 to 1,000 ft. AGL; Cruise Speed: 30 mph (13.5 m/s); Range:10 km (LOS)
Climb Rate: 800 ft./min at 2,000 ft. AGL; Turn Rate: 360 in 24 seconds
Motor: Direct drive electric; Aircraft Batteries: LiSO2 (single-use) Li-Ion (rechargeable)
Flight Duration: 60-90 min rechargeable
Launch-Hand Launch; Landing- Commanded auto land, deep stall
Navigation: P(y)-code GPS (WGS84) and electronic compass
Flight Control: Manual or Autonomous
Pilot Name(s):Jeff Safran, Mark Bauer, Lance R. Brady / Pilot(s) Carded: Yes No / A/C Carded: Yes No
Flight Following Procedure:Flight following will be conducted via the UAS ground control unit and visual observation.
FM Receive: / FM Transmit: / Tones:
AM Air to Air: / AM (other): Unicom 122.900 / Other:
Start Location / Latitude / Longitude / Elevation / Description of Launch/Recovery Areas
Type of Flight / Personal Personnel Protective Equipment Requirements
T-Hawk / Eye protection will be used during run-up and launch. Ear protection will be worn within 100’ of a running T-Hawk UAS. Eye protection will be worn during fueling operations (T-Hawk). A fire extinguisher will be available during fueling.
Raven
Both
Other:
Military Training Route (MTR) Information: N/A
MTR / Route Legs-Altitude / Activity / Time / Time ZoneN/A / Hot Cold / Start Stop / UTCLocal
Hot Cold / Start Stop / UTCLocal
Hot Cold / Start Stop / UTCLocal
Other airspace concerns/hazards:
Two general aviation airports are located near the Horning Seed Orchard; One isapproximately 6 miles north (5S9), the otherabout 8 miles west (4S9).The Tyrrell Orchard is 12 nm from Cottage Grove (61S), the closest airport. General aviation traffic is not expected to be a factor since UAS operations will be conducted below 400 ft. AGL.
Airspace Deconfliction Procedures:
Deconfliction will not be required since there are no Military Training Routes or Special Use Airspace in the vicinity of either project site.
Special Instructions:
Notify the appropriate Dispatch Center (serving the Salem or Eugene Districts) before flight operations begin, and when flights are completed at the end of the day. Seed Orchard personnel will provide alternative effective means of communications with dispatch (radios or land lines) if there is poor cell coverage at either projects site.
Emergency medical attention and evacuation plan: Notify the appropriate Dispatch Center (serving the Salem or Eugene Districts) if any medical issue arises with personnel on the project site.
Logistics:TBD
Risk Assessment Matrix
Severity
Likelihood / IV Negligible / III Marginal / II Critical / I Catastrophic
Frequent
A / 2 / 3 / 4 / 4
Probable
B / 2 / 3 / 4 / HIGH
Occasional
C / 1 / 2 / SERIOUS / 4
Remote
D / 1 / MEDIUM / 2 / 3
Improbable
E / LOW / 2 / 2 / 2
Reference the Aviation Risk Mgmt. Workbook, JHAs, etc., to assist completion of Risk Assessment. Assess the risks involved with the proposed operation. Use additional sheets if necessary.
Hazards: / Pre-Mitigation hazards rate out as:Likelihood
A-E / Severity
I-IV / Risk
Level
1. Mid-air collision with another aircraft / D / II / 2
2. Collision with personnel / D / II / 2
3.Collision with vehicles / D / IV / 1
4. Operating UAS aircraft outside of the approved area / D / III / 2
5. Operating aircraft outside of manual limitations / E / IV / 1
6.Collision with birds / D / III / 2
7. Fire During Fueling (T-Hawk) / D / II / 2
8. Loss of Link with aircraft. (LOL) / C / III / 2
9. Injury to fingers/hands due to spinning blades on aircraft / D / II / 2
10 Air Vehicle loss of control. / D / III / 2
Pre-Mitigation Overall Rating: / Medium
Mitigation Controls: / Post Mitigation hazards rate out as:
Likelihood
A-E / Severity
I-IV / Risk
Level
1. The project will be conducted in locations that are nowhere near any GA airport, Victor airway, or Military Training routes. The operating altitude of less than 400 ft. AGL will ensure adequate separation from any transient general aviation traffic which is required by 14CFR 91.119 (c.) to remain at least 500 feet from any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure in other-than-congested areas. UAS Operators will practice "See and Avoid." / E / II / 2
2.Flight patterns will be planned so to avoid people on the ground when approaching for landings. Non-participating personnel will remain clear of the ground control station so as not to be a distraction to the operators. Landing areas will be established that minimize risk of impact to people. The project area is remote and public visitation is rare . / E / II / 2
3.Vehicles will be parked outside of operating areas. / E / IV / 1
4. A/C will be programmed to stay within the operating areas in the event of LOL. The operating area is relatively small in size. Aircraft will never be operated outside of line-of-sight distances. PIC and Observers are trained and experienced in maintaining control of the aircraft. / D / III / 2
5.There is no anticipated or expected need to conduct any portion of the deed orchard flight operations outside of manual limitations. / E / IV / 1
6. If a bird is encountered and attempting to come in contact with the airplane then the pilot shall land as soon as practical in order to prevent injury to the animal. / E / III / 2
7. A fire extinguisher will be on site and available at all times. Fueling will be done in an area clear of any flammable materials. / D / II / 2
8. Prior to launching any aircraft the LOL settings will be verified. Loss of Link (LOL) setting will cause the aircraft to return to its point of launch and AUTOLAND. / D / III / 2
9. Checklist procedures will be followed to ensure that personnel keep their hands clear of rotating blades. Personnel who are not trained or authorized will not be allowed to touch or stand near operating aircraft. / D / II / 2
10. UAS will not be flown directly above any people, structures, or vehicles, and will only fly within 100’ of the operators for purposes of takeoff and landing. / D / III / 2
Post-Mitigation Overall Rating: / Medium
Appropriate Management Level for Risk Decisions
Risk Level / Project / Incident
HIGH / AMD Associate Director/ State Director / Incident Commander or Ops Chief
SERIOUS / AMD Division Chief/ District Manager / Incident Commander or Ops Chief
MEDIUM / Project Aviation Manager / Air Operations
LOW / UAS Pilot In Command / Air Operations
MissionPlanning/Preflight Briefing Checklist: Review with all participants as part of preflight briefing
- Chain of command, individual roles and responsibilities are identified to all participants?
- Project Aviation Safety Plan is approved and signed at the appropriate levels?
- Is the emergency evacuation plan reviewed?
- Are all elements in place to track the UAS at all times?
- Can terrain, altitude, temperature or weather that could have an adverse effect be mitigated?
- Are all aerial hazards identified and known to all participants?
- Have ground operations hazards and safety been identified to all participants?
- Have mitigating measures been taken to avoid conflicts with military or civilian aircraft?
- Have adequate landing areas been identified and or improved to minimum standards?
- Are all agency personnel qualified for the mission?
- Are there enough (qualified) agency personnel to accomplish the mission safely?
- Is the pilot carded and experienced for the mission to be conducted?
- Will adequate briefings be conducted prior to flight with all participants?
- Is the aircraft capable of performing the mission with a margin of safety?
- Does the aircraft have the capability to perform the mission based on predicted weather conditions?
- Is the aircraft properly carded?
- Do all personnel have the required PPE?
- Remember; maps of areas/sites, handheld radios, cell phones.
- Are pilot flight and duty times compromised?
- Is there an alternative method that would accomplish the mission more safely?
- Have the proper approvals been given by FAA?
- If flying in Restricted Airspace, has notification been made with controlling authority prior to launching UAS?
- Other? (identify) Fire Extinguisher
- Other? (identify)
- Other? (identify)
Identify Corrections (if any):
PIC Signature:
/Date:
/Operator/Observe Signature:
/Date:
Project Aviation Safety Briefing
Briefing Leader: ______
Briefing Date: ______Time: ______Location: ______
Discussion Items:
a. Hazard Analysis (as outlinedin plan)
b. Safety Air Ops (Ground)
c. Safety Air Ops (Flight)
d. Military Training Routes
e. Flight Following
f. Frequencies
g. Lost Link Procedures
h. Emergency Evacuation Plan
i. Authorities
j. Weather Considerations
k. Review applicable JHAs/Risk Assessments
l. other
Briefing Attendees Signature and Concurrence:Page 1 of 6