Idiot with drone damages water bomber

[ggibson511960]

A factor to keep in mind over this controversy is that water bombing from a safe altitude has very little suppression effect on fires. Much of the liquid water aerosols in the prop wash and wing vortices and much also evaporates over a hot fire. It certainly doesn't hurt, but retardant is the good stuff that can stop the progression of a fire front until ground crews can truly extinguish the flames. I learned this tidbit from Juan Brown on the Blancolirio channel. As a former pathfinder pilot for CalFire, Juan knows whereof he speaks. He pointed all this out a couple of days ago on his updates, far more informative and knowledgeable than news outlets. The nitwit drone operator should be punished and held liable for aircraft damage, but linking to ground fire death and damage is a real stretch of credulity, and the kind of fault finding and excuse making that certain prominent California politicians are prone to. Everyone is angry and disappointed about circumstances, but a deep breath and competent, informed action in the midst of the battle are in order.

 

[SMSgt]

Does the FAA have its own SWAT team?

 

[BE Mike]

There are always a few idiots that screw things up for the rest of us.

 

[BigBoy99]

Would it be possible to put an electronic jammer on the water bomber which would interfere with the drones command and control electronics?

 

[S42N8]

Yeah, an Assault Drone law.

High-powered drones law.

 

[S42N8]

That would lead to Ghost Drones.

Would batteries be considered, "drone precursor parts"?

Dual-use restrictions. Can only buy two per day, lithium batteries must be kept behind the counter, must complete federal purchase form (ATF 4473-B), ten-day waiting period in CA, requires battery carry permit.