The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Thursday that a firefighting aircraft operating over the Palisades Fire was grounded after colliding with a drone. The incident occurred during efforts to control one of five major wildfires in Los Angeles County. The FAA stated that the aircraft landed safely while the details of the crash are under investigation.
Emphasizing the serious consequences of interfering with wildfire suppression operations on public lands, the FAA stated, “Such interference is a federal offense and can result in up to 12 months of imprisonment.” The agency also stressed that unauthorized drone use is strictly prohibited during temporary flight restrictions.
Fines Up to $75,000 on the Agenda
Under temporary flight restrictions, the FAA warned that drone pilots who disrupt firefighting, law enforcement, or emergency operations could face fines of up to $75,000. Multiple temporary flight restrictions have been imposed to safeguard firefighting efforts in the Los Angeles area.
The FAA emphasized the gravity of such violations and indicated it would act swiftly on punitive measures: “No unauthorized aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles, may operate within temporary flight restriction zones.”
Firefighting Efforts Disrupted
The Palisades Fire, one of five active fires in the region, is now in its third day. Firefighting teams noted that interruptions to aerial operations are negatively impacting their efforts. Officials urged the public to be more mindful to prevent such accidents in the future.
The growing wildfire threat in Los Angeles has drawn attention from both local authorities and the public toward the safe use of unmanned aerial vehicles. The FAA and the Los Angeles Fire Department have issued public appeals to stay away from fire zones and refrain from unauthorized drone flights.
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