One of the “Super Scooper” planes aiding in the battle against the Los Angeles wildfires was damaged after colliding with a drone and is now grounded, officials said on Thursday.
The collision occurred over the Palisades fire as the Canadair CL-415 aircraft was dumping water onto the blaze. The circumstances of the collision have not been made public, but LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said Thursday that the plane’s wing was punctured. CBS reported that the drone was operated by a civilian.
The aircraft landed safely and, according to Los Angeles CBS affiliate KCAL, is being repaired at the Santa Monica Airport.