Firefighting helicopters hindered by unauthorized drones over the Line Fire

Firefighting helicopters based at Redlands Municipal Airport have been hindered throughout the day after unauthorized drones were spotted flying over the fire. Drones pose a safety risk to helicopter crews.

Fire officials are asking the public to not fly their drones as crews continue to work to contain the wildfire.

Following two drone intrusions that forced helicopters to return to base, fire and law enforcement officials created a public service announcement, which they posted to YouTube.

We previously highlighted the role that fixed-wing air tankers have played in battling the wildfires burning across Southern California.

Helicopter crews at the Redlands helicopter base tell us that their aircraft have been able to fly daily to drop water in tight spaces that are inaccessible to firefighters on the ground.

The largest of these helicopters can drop over 2,000 gallons of water or fire retardant. Other helicopters are used to provide useful information for firefighters on the ground and pilots in the air.