One of the two L.A. County super scooper aircraft has been taken out of commission for emergency repairs after sustaining damage in a drone incursion at the Palisades Fire. The incident was confirmed by LA County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone on Friday.
The exact time of the drone hitting the wing of the aircraft, which is currently on contract from the Province of Quebec, remains unclear. The pilots were unaware of the collision until they landed at Van Nuys Airport, where maintenance staff discovered a fist-sized hole in the leading edge of the wing.
Marrone assured that the super scooper will be prioritized for repair and is expected to be back in operation by Monday. With only two of these aircraft in service, the repair process is crucial to maintaining firefighting capabilities.
Marrone issued a stern warning against flying drones in fire traffic areas, emphasizing the dangers and illegality of such actions. He mentioned that federal partners are working on implementing procedures to track drones in fire zones and identify their operators.
Highlighting the consequences of drone interference, Marrone stressed that any drone activity during brush fires would result in the suspension of all aerial operations, a scenario that authorities aim to avoid.
