Drone Collision Grounds Firefighting Aircraft, Sparks Outrage
A firefighting operation over the Palisades fire came to a halt on Thursday when a drone collided with a Super Scooper aircraft, grounding the vital plane for repairs and sparking widespread criticism of the drone operator.
“We hit a drone this afternoon—first one,” said Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone. The Super Scooper, a large fixed-wing plane designed to drop significant volumes of water, sustained damage when it struck the unauthorized drone, leaving a fist-sized hole in its wing.
The incident marks a first for the department, as the unauthorized drone presence violated strict flight restrictions in place during firefighting operations. “The drone was destroyed,” Marrone noted, “and the plane is grounded now.”
Photos released by the L.A. County Fire Department show the extent of the damage to the Super Scooper, highlighting the severity of the incident. Marrone revealed that the FBI is now stepping in with “aerial armor” to prevent further drone interference.
The drone’s operator remains unidentified, but the grounding of the Super Scooper has sparked outrage among firefighters and the public. Many have labeled the drone operator’s actions as “shameful” and dangerous, emphasizing the critical role firefighting aircraft play in containing wildfires.
Despite the setback, Marrone assured that repair work on the Super Scooper is being prioritized around the clock, with hopes to have it operational by Monday. “This plane is essential,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of its return to service.
The Palisades fire continues to pose challenges for firefighters, and officials warn that any further interference from unauthorized drones could have life-threatening consequences. The investigation into the drone’s origin remains ongoing, with authorities determined to hold the operator accountable.
As the region battles intensifying wildfire threats, the incident underscores the importance of adhering to flight restrictions and supporting those on the front lines.
