A Morane 29 water-bombing helicopter crashed into a lake during wildfire containment efforts in France's Finistere region on Thursday. The prefecture confirmed both crew members escaped unharmed after the aircraft lost control during a critical water-scooping maneuver.
Eyewitnesses reported the helicopter descended rapidly to collect water from the lake before its tail struck the surface. Despite attempts to stabilize, the impact caused an uncontrolled spin. The pilot and onboard firefighter evacuated independently and swam to shore, avoiding serious injury.
This incident highlights the risks emergency crews face during increasingly frequent wildfire operations across Europe. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the technical circumstances of the crash while maintaining firefighting operations with alternative aircraft.
