Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) assistant commissioner Gary Gifford said flying drones near a bushfire could create a dangerous situation for pilots already operating in a challenging environment.
“Firefighting aircrafts fly at around 200km/h, often manoeuvring in poor visibility, close to each other, the ground and other obstacles such as trees, radio masts and power lines,” he said.
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“Even a small drone colliding or obstructing a bombing aircraft could have catastrophic results.
“If we see a drone we will be forced to ground our aircraft, which would seriously hinder efforts to bring a fire under control.”
The assistant commissioner said close calls interstate had led to aircraft being redirected.
“We don’t want to see this happen in WA,” he said. “We need the community to keep a safe distance away.”
Drone pilots caught breaking Civil Aviation safety regulations could be slapped with a $9000 fine.
For information visit www.casa.gov.au.