A critical firefighting aircraft battling the devastating wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles was temporarily grounded after a civilian drone collided with its wing, causing significant damage. The incident, currently under investigation by federal and local authorities, highlights the serious dangers posed by unauthorized drone flights near active wildfire zones.

The aircraft, a Quebec 1 Super Scooper brought in from Canada, sustained a "fist-sized hole" in its wing after the drone strike on Thursday afternoon. The pilots were reportedly unaware of the impact until the plane landed at Van Nuys Airport for maintenance. This incident took one of only two Super Scoopers operating in Southern California out of commission for several days during a crucial period in the firefighting efforts.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident and emphasized that interfering with firefighting operations is a federal crime, carrying penalties of up to one year in prison and a $75,000 fine. The FAA has established temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) in the affected areas and stressed that no unauthorized drone flights are permitted within these zones.

CalFire anticipates the damaged Super Scooper will be operational again by Monday. The incident underscores the critical need for public cooperation in keeping airspace clear for firefighting aircraft. Drone interference can significantly hinder firefighting efforts, delaying response times and allowing fires to spread further, potentially endangering lives and property.

The ongoing wildfires in Southern California have tragically claimed at least ten lives and destroyed over 10,000 homes and businesses. The Palisades Fire, the largest of the blazes, has consumed more than 20,000 acres and remains only partially contained. Evacuation orders, affecting over 180,000 residents earlier in the week, have been partially lifted.