A Canadian CL-415 Super Scooper amphibious waterbomber battling the Pacific Palisades fire in Los Angeles was seriously damaged when it collided with a drone Thursday. The plane reportedly ended up with a hole in its wing. It landed safely but is grounded indefinitely. The aircraft was among several deployed from Canada to help out with the unprecedented catastrophe.
According to a statement released Wednesday on California Governor Gavin Newsom’s website, the state has deployed at least six air tankers and 31 helicopters to combat the flames.
In addition to California’s response, the Pentagon has stepped in, announcing the deployment of ten Navy helicopters equipped with water delivery buckets to assist in aerial fire suppression. A Pentagon press secretary also confirmed the activation of four C-130 aircraft outfitted with Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) units. This technology allows C-130 Hercules planes to be converted into firefighting aircraft with minimal modifications, providing a critical boost to the firefighting effort.
California has also enlisted help from Canada, as several helicopters from Coulson Aviation have arrived to fight the blaze. Among the assets are three Boeing CH-47 Chinook helitankers, each equipped with 3,000-gallon tanks, and a smaller Sikorsky helicopter, as reported by CTV News Vancouver. Additionally, two Canadian-made water bombers have also been requested to join the fight.
Other states such Arizona and Colorado are also sending aircraft to support the operations.
Meanwhile, officials have reported that strong winds have significantly hindered aerial operations in the area.
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