Firefighting aircraft damaged by drone while battling deadly Palisades Fire
A firefighting aircraft battling the deadly Palisades Fire was struck by a drone, forcing the crucial plane out of action with a damaged wing, officials said.
The Scooper plane, Quebec 1, was hit by the civilian drone while over Los Angeles around 1 p.m. Thursday, Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Erik Scott wrote on X.
The plane landed safely after being hit, and no one onboard was injured.
However, the firefighting aircraft’s wing was damaged, forcing it out of service as numerous infernos continued to rage across the Los Angeles area, Scott shared.
“We would like to remind everyone that flying a drone in the midst of firefighting efforts is a federal crime and punishable by up to 12 months in prison or a fine of up to $75,000,” he wrote.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it is investigating.
“The FAA has not authorized anyone unaffiliated with the Los Angeles firefighting operations to fly drones in the [Temporary Flight Restrictions] TFRs,” the agency stated.
“The FAA treats these violations seriously and immediately considers swift enforcement action for these offenses.”
The agency has “implemented several Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) in the Los Angeles area to protect firefighting aircraft” and that “all other aircraft, including drones, are prohibited from flying in TFRs unless they receive authorization.”
It also reminded the public that “flying a drone near a wildfire is dangerous and can cost lives” and to avoid doing so until restrictions are lifted.
“When people fly drones near wildfires, fire response agencies often ground their aircraft to avoid the potential for a midair collision,” the FAA shared.
“Delaying airborne response poses a threat to firefighters on the ground, residents, and property in nearby communities, and it can allow wildfires to grow larger.”
Stay up to date with the NYP’s coverage of the terrifying LA-area fires
The FAA said they would “treat these violations seriously,” and any drone operator caught breaking the guidelines “will immediately” be reported to law enforcement.
The Pacific Palisades fire destroyed more than 5,300 structures, including many celebrities’ houses, and the Eaton fire near Pasadena burned through more than 5,000 structures.
In addition to countless homes, at least seven schools, five churches, two libraries, and one synagogue have been leveled by the dueling infernos.
Across the city, nearly 30,000 acres have been torched, including from additional less powerful blazes.
At least 10 people died in fire-related deaths in Los Angeles County, the medical examiner announced Thursday.
The Department of Medical Examiner received notification of 10 fire-related deaths as of 9 p.m. on Jan. 9, the office said.
