Drone Collides With Aircraft During LA Wildfire Crisis

A privately-operated drone collided with a firefighting aircraft battling Los Angeles wildfires, prompting an FBI investigation and raising serious concerns about public safety.

At a Glance

  • FBI released photos of a Super Scooper firefighting plane damaged by a drone collision near Los Angeles wildfires
  • The collision caused a significant hole in the plane’s left wing, delaying operations by 20-30 minutes
  • At least 40 incidents of unauthorized drones disrupting firefighting efforts have occurred since the wildfires began
  • Flying drones in restricted airspace is a federal crime with severe penalties
  • Authorities are seeking public assistance to identify the drone operator

Drone Collision Impedes Firefighting Efforts

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched an investigation following a collision between a privately-owned drone and a firefighting aircraft near Los Angeles. The incident, which occurred during efforts to combat the Palisades Fire, has highlighted the growing threat of unauthorized drone activity in emergency situations.

The collision resulted in a 3-by-6-inch hole in the left wing of a Super Scooper firefighting plane, a crucial asset in battling wildfires. These planes are designed to collect and dump water over active fire zones, making them invaluable in firefighting operations. The damage to the aircraft caused a delay in firefighting efforts, potentially allowing the wildfire to spread further.

Authorities Stress Dangers of Unauthorized Drone Use

FBI Special Agent Akil Davis emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “I’d just like to stress, that technique, using that super scooper aircraft, are our most effective technique to fight fires like this, and when this happens, it puts everybody’s lives at risk.”

The presence of unauthorized drones not only endangers firefighting personnel but also hampers their ability to contain and extinguish wildfires effectively.

“Our biggest concern is that there are so many unauthorized drones in the area that they are impacting law enforcement and firefighters’ efforts to suppress this fire and actually get it contained,” Davis added.

Legal Consequences for Drone Operators

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed temporary flight restrictions in areas affected by wildfires to ensure the safety of firefighting operations. Despite these measures, unauthorized drones continue to pose a significant threat. LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman issued a stern warning to potential violators:

“If you’re thinking that it’s fine to send a drone up in the area for your own amusement, or you want to get information that nobody else can get, and you do it in one of these areas that for which drones are not permitted … you will be arrested, you will be prosecuted and you will be punished to the full extent of the law,” Hochman said.

The FAA has reiterated that interfering with firefighting aircraft is a federal crime, carrying severe penalties for those found guilty. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to respect airspace restrictions and prioritize the safety of emergency responders and the communities they serve.

Be careful out there, folks!