Drone Crashes Into Firefighting Plane Above Palisades Fire

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA — A water-dropping air tanker was taken out of commission Thursday when it was struck by a drone while battling the Palisades Fire.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the agency is investigating the incident, which left the plane with a damaged wing. The aircraft was able to land safely, but it will have to be inspected and repaired before it can safely aid in the fight.

The plane is a Super Scooper, and the FBI will be responding to the area with "aerial armor" to prevent drones from flying in the fire zone, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone told the Los Angeles Times.

Wildfires such as the Palisades and Eaton fires are under temporary flight restrictions designed to enable aerial firefighting crews to battle the blaze without interference.

"It’s a federal crime, punishable by up to 12 months in prison, to interfere with firefighting efforts on public lands," The FAA warned. "Additionally, the FAA can impose a civil penalty of up to $75,000 against any drone pilot who interferes with wildfire suppression, law enforcement or emergency response operations when temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) are in place."

"The FAA treats these violations seriously and immediately considers swift enforcement action for these offenses," the agency added. "The FAA has not authorized anyone unaffiliated with the Los Angeles firefighting operations to fly drones in the TFRs."

Rogue drones have long been a problem for firefighting operations. There are state and federal laws against flying drones in firefighting airspace. In the fall, firefighting operations above the Line Fire were hampered by drones.

SEE ALSO:

• Can You Shoot Down A Drone In California? What To Know
• Cal Fire Urges Drone Pilots To Avoid Wildfire Areas
• Drone Interferes with Firefighters Battling Hollywood Hills Blaze
• 'Drone Killer' Arrives In LA