Private drones interfering with search efforts in Texas floods, officials say
officials in Texas have warned that private drones are interfering with search and rescue operations following recent deadly floods. A helicopter involved in these efforts had to make an emergency landing after colliding with a private drone flying in restricted airspace, an incident described as “entirely preventable.” Despite temporary flight restrictions aimed at protecting emergency response efforts, several drones continued to operate illegally in the area.Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice emphasized that personal drones pose serious risks to aircraft and hamper emergency operations. Similar incidents, such as a collision between a private drone and a firefighting plane during the Los Angeles Palisades fire, highlight the dangers drones can present in emergency situations.
Private drones interfering with search efforts in Texas floods, officials say
Officials in Texas warned that private drones are obstructing search efforts following last week’s deadly floods.
A helicopter used for search and rescue operations made an emergency landing Monday after it crashed into a private drone in restricted airspace. County officials called it an “entirely preventable” incident.
“Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are not suggestions. They are federal airspace rules designed to protect lives during emergency situations. When you fly a drone in restricted areas, you’re not just breaking the law — you’re putting first responders, emergency crews, and the public at serious risk,” the city said in a statement.
After the helicopter’s emergency landing, several drones were still flying over the area in violation of the airspace restriction, according to the county.
“This dangerous situation was made worse by the presence of these illegally operated drones,” the county said.
Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice additionally told residents not to fly personal drones following the incident.
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“We know that people want to volunteer, but what we are starting to see is personal drones flying,” Rice said. “These personal drones flying is a danger to aircraft, which then risks further operations.”
A similar incident with a private drone occurred in the Los Angeles Palisades fire in January when a private drone collided with a firefighting plane.
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