Helicopter crashes into lake during wildfire operation in France

A firefighting helicopter crashed into Rosporden Lake in western France on Sunday evening (24 Aug) while attempting to collect water to battle nearby wildfires.

The Morane 29 aircraft was on a routine water pick-up shortly after 7pm when its tail became submerged during descent.

As the pilot attempted to regain control, the helicopter spun out of control before crashing into the lake and breaking apart.

Authorities confirmed that both the pilot and an onboard firefighter escaped without injury and swam safely to shore.

They praised the “professionalism, composure, and courage” of the crew, noting the risks faced daily by firefighters in the region.

The helicopter had earlier completed 27 water drops to protect a 10-hectare area from flames in Beuzec-Cap-Sizun.

It was quickly replaced by another aircraft to ensure firefighting operations could continue.

An investigation is under way to determine the cause of the crash.

France has been battling a series of wildfires in recent weeks, with blazes earlier in August burning an area larger than Paris.