Drone pilot could face charges for flying near wildfire

– A drone flying illegally created a problem for crews fighting a wildfire south of Twin Falls, Idaho. The Times-News reports the lightning-caused fire burned grass and brush near Nat-Soo-Pah. Bureau of Land Management Twin Falls District spokeswoman Kelsey Brizendine says they had a drone intrusion on the fire, and it was a huge concern. The drone was spotted around 12:30 a.m. Sunday and firefighters found the drone pilot. The BLM will contact the pilot again this week. She says that person could receive a citation for interfering with firefighting efforts. The BLM can also issue a fine of up to $500. She says drones are dangerous for aircraft and hinder efforts when firefighters have to stop doing their jobs to ensure safety. The fire was controlled Sunday night.