Drone Hobbyists Hinder Wildfire Efforts Image Unavailable, Please Login Oct 19, 2017 In spelling out some of the reasons why the Federal Aviation Administration plays a role in regulating the use of personal drones, there’s a line on its website explaining that drone users need to “Allow first responders to save lives and property without interference.” This requirement would seem like a no-brainer, but it has repeatedly come into play recently as wildfires ravage Northern California. Apparently drone owners, while attempting to score that perfect image of the blaze, have not been able in all cases to avoid collisions with rescue helicopters and firefighting aircraft. Although the drone comes out on the losing end of these crashes, it still delays efforts and adds to the complexity of an already dangerous situation. In addition to losing their aircraft, drone operators have been cited and fined for impeding emergency personnel. So far, the fires have killed 41 people with 80 more still missing. More than 220,000 acres have been scorched and upwards of 5,700 structures destroyed. Although the FAA has been known to award temporary flight restrictions, using a drone without authorization in or near a disaster can be prosecuted as a violation of federal, state, and local law. A full flight restriction notice has been posted for the region to ensure a safe environment for firefighting aircraft.
That's been happening for a while. I imagine that, in addition to just getting cool footage, some people are interested to see what is going on with their house or property in the fire area.
Yes, it could only be a matter of time before drones are not the only craft in the casualty column for firefighting aircraft activities. A strike on the right part of a helicopter or getting ingested into the engine of a tanker could add a human toll. Common sense needs to prevail here.
I'm guessing at some point they'll invent a micro battery-powered transponder for hobbyist drones. Something that broadcasts a unique serial number. That would enable the FAA to monitor the location of all drones in the future. Wouldn't surprise me if they make it mandatory to attach one to every drone in the future.
