FAA Urges Drone Pilots to Avoid Wildfire Areas to Prevent Accidents and Delays in Firefighting Efforts
A drone collided with a firefighting aircraft over the Palisades fire on Thursday, grounding the firefighting aircraft and raising concerns about drone safety near active wildfires. The FAA and local officials are emphasizing the dangers of unauthorized drone flights in restricted airspace.
Incident Details
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone confirmed that a Super Scooper firefighting plane like the one pictured above struck a small drone during its operation over the Palisades fire. The collision caused damage to the plane’s wing, forcing it to be grounded. “It put a hole in the wing,” Marrone stated. The drone was destroyed in the collision, and the operator has not yet been identified.
In response to the incident, Marrone announced that the FBI plans to deploy counter drone technology to prevent further unauthorized drone activity in the area. The incident highlights the potential risks drones pose to aerial firefighting operations, which are already hazardous under normal conditions.
FAA Response
The FAA reiterated its strict policies on drone operations near wildfires. “It’s a federal crime, punishable by up to 12 months in prison, to interfere with firefighting efforts on public lands,” the agency stated. “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.”
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are often issued over wildfire areas to protect aircraft engaged in suppression efforts. The FAA confirmed that no waivers for drone operations had been granted within the restricted airspace near the Palisades fire.
The FAA’s “Drones and Wildfires Toolkit” warns that unauthorized drones can force fire managers to halt aerial operations, delaying response efforts and endangering lives. The toolkit states: “If you fly, firefighters can’t.”
Growing Concern Over Unauthorized Drone Use
Despite warnings and TFRs, unauthorized drone flights near wildfires remain a persistent issue. Several individuals posted drone footage of the Palisades and Sunset fires on social media, drawing backlash from the public and drone professionals.
The FAA works closely with partners like the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) and CAL FIRE to educate the public about these risks. The agency also encourages reporting unauthorized drone activity to local law enforcement and the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office.
Know the Rules
Drone pilots must understand the regulations surrounding wildfire zones. The FAA’s toolkit emphasizes:
- TFR Zones: Check for active restrictions here.
- Penalties: Violators face fines up to $75,000, potential jail time, and swift enforcement actions.
- Safety Risks: Firefighting aircraft operate at low altitudes, the same range as recreational drones, increasing the risk of collisions.
Drone pilots can apply for special waivers in emergency situations, but approvals require strict adherence to safety protocols and coordination with on-scene commanders.
As wildfires continue to challenge communities, responsible drone operation is critical to ensuring the safety of first responders and the effectiveness of suppression efforts. The FAA reminds all drone pilots: “Your photos and video footage of the wildfires are not worth the lives and crucial operations they jeopardize.”
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