En FBI y FAA are investigating a collision between an unauthorized drone and a firefighting “Super Scooper” aircraft battling the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County last week. The crash, which occurred Thursday afternoon, caused significant damage to the plane, grounding it for several days while firefighters struggled to contain multiple infernos across the region.
The aircraft, known as “Quebec 1,” was conducting fire suppression operations near Malibu, California, when it struck a civilian drone flying illegally within FAA-restricted airspace. The collision left a 3-by-6-inch hole in the plane’s wing.
“We hit a drone this afternoon – first one,” said L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone. “Our Super Scooper hit a small drone. It put a hole in the wing, and it’s grounded now.”
Despite the damage, the pilot landed the aircraft safely. The Super Scooper, leased from Canada to assist in battling wildfires, was repaired and is awaiting FAA approval to return to service.
FBI and FAA response
The FBI has launched a tip line to identify the drone operator, emphasizing the seriousness of the violation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reiterated that drone incursions near wildfires are a federal crime punishable by up to 12 months in prison and a $75,000 fine.
“The FAA treats these violations seriously and immediately considers swift enforcement action for these offenses,” the agency said.
The Palisades Fire, which erupted on January 7, has seen widespread drone interference, forcing authorities to halt aerial operations on multiple occasions. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that three people have been arrested in connection with two drone-related incidents over the fires.
Since the wildfires began, at least 40 unauthorized drone flights have been reported, and 48 privately owned drones have been detected over restricted areas, according to fire officials.
“Flying a drone near a wildfire is dangerous and can cost lives,” the FAA warned. “When people fly drones near wildfires, fire response agencies often ground their aircraft to avoid the potential for a midair collision. 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.”
The Palisades Fire has burned thousands of acres and destroyed numerous homes. Drones have become a significant hazard, with some operators using them to capture dramatic images of the devastation despite FAA flight restrictions.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to respect FAA flight restrictions and report unauthorized drone activity to prevent further disruptions to critical firefighting operations.
Post Image Credit: Needleheadryerson
