Drone Collides with Firefighting Plane Over Palisades

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a drone and a firefighting plane collided Thursday in Los Angeles’ Palisades neighborhood.

The FAA stated that the aircraft had been damaged as a result.

In a press release, it stated that “Fire officials informed FAA of a drone being struck by a firefighting plane while it was flying over the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles Thursday, January 9”.

Interfering with firefighting on public land is a federal offense punishable by up to 12 months in jail, the statement said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department releases statement on the firefighting plane that collided with a drone over the Palisades fire. pic.twitter.com/j0URKYkFFh

— AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) January 10, 2025

The FAA may also impose civil penalties of up to $75,000. This is for drone pilots who interfere with law enforcement, emergency response, or wildfire suppression operations.

The FAA has temporarily restricted flight as firefighters continue their battle against fires in Los Angeles.

LAPD confirms that one person is in custody and the investigation into the Kenneth Fire has been reclassified as an arson.