Water-dropping 'super scooper' hit by drone while flying over Palisades Fire; FAA investigating
The Federal Aviation Administration said it is investigating after fire officials reported that a water-dropping "super scooper" firefighting aircraft struck a drone while operating over the Palisades Fire in Southern California on Thursday.
MORE: Fire officials plead for people to not fly drones over wildfire-ravaged areas of CA
The drone reportedly left a football-sized hole in the wing of the plane.
The aircraft landed safely, the FAA said.
"It's a federal crime, punishable by up to 12 months in prison, to interfere with firefighting efforts on public lands," the FAA said in a statement. "Additionally, the FAA can impose a civil penalty of up to $75,000 against any drone pilot who interferes with wildfire suppression, law enforcement or emergency response operations when temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) are in place.
PHOTOS: Powerful images show destruction from deadly Southern California fires
The statement went on to say, "The FAA treats these violations seriously and immediately considers swift enforcement action for these offenses. The FAA has not authorized anyone unaffiliated with the Los Angeles firefighting operations to fly drones in the TFRs."
The Pacific Palisades, in Los Angeles, is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the country.
Newly released numbers show the devastating Palisades Fire has burned 19,978 acres and is still at zero percent containment. More than an estimated 9,000 structures have been burned or destroyed, and that does not include structures that have been damaged.
The Palisades Fire is larger than all of Manhattan (14,600 acres) and more than five times bigger than Downtown Los Angeles (3,700 acres).
Take a look at the latest stories and videos on the devastating Southern California wildfires here.
