Unauthorized drones caused firefighting aircraft to be grounded over the Palisades Fire near Los Angeles, significantly hampering efforts to contain California’s most destructive wildfire, which has already scorched over 21,000 acres and claimed at least 11 lives.
The disruption occurred Friday afternoon when drones were spotted in the southeastern section of the fire near Santa Monica, forcing all firefighting aircraft to halt operations. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials, along with law enforcement, are investigating the incident.
“This is not just harmless fun. This is incredibly dangerous,” Chris Thomas, a public information officer for the Palisades Fire, told the Los Angeles Times.
The impact of unauthorized drone activity was underscored when a Super Scooper aircraft sustained damage on Thursday after colliding with a drone, leaving a hole in its wing. The aircraft, critical for large-scale water drops, was temporarily grounded. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said the plane could return to service by Monday.
Fire officials emphasized that drones jeopardize the safety of aircraft crews and residents in fire-affected areas.
“Because of safety, we have to get all the aircraft out of the area until we know the drones are gone,” Thomas explained. “It takes water-dropping capability away from the fire.”
The FAA has reiterated that interfering with firefighting efforts is a federal crime punishable by up to 12 months in prison and fines of up to $75,000.
Escalating Threats
The Palisades Fire, fueled by strong winds, moved closer to urban areas on Friday, prompting new evacuation orders in heavily populated regions like the San Fernando Valley. More powerful winds, reaching speeds of 40 mph, are expected to worsen the situation overnight.
President Joe Biden has issued a disaster declaration, unlocking federal emergency response funds to aid California’s firefighting and recovery efforts.
Fire officials warn that delays caused by drones could lead to further devastation.
“What if that plane had gone down?” Thomas asked. “It could have taken out a row of homes. It could have taken out a school.”
As the fire rages on, authorities urge the public to avoid flying drones in active fire zones to prevent further risks and ensure critical firefighting operations can continue.
