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Super Scooper Grounded After Illegal Drone Collision Over Palisades Fire, Only One Aircraft Remains

Jan 10, 2025, 02:15 AM

A firefighting aircraft combating the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles collided with a drone that was flying illegally in restricted airspace on Thursday, January 9. The aircraft, a "Super Scooper," landed safely despite sustaining damage, including a hole in its wing. As a result of the collision, the aircraft has been grounded and removed from firefighting operations, leaving only one Super Scooper remaining to battle the wildfire. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed the incident and is investigating. Sen. Tim Sheehy, a former aerial firefighter, commented on the situation, noting that "when you're flying through at that speed, a small plastic drone can do great damage." Authorities are reminding drone operators that temporary flight restrictions are in place over the area due to the wildfire.