Aspen Fire Crews Embrace Drone Technology

Firefighters in Aspen, Colorado are preparing to use new drones from the manufacturer Seneca. These drones are capable of carrying and dropping fire-suppressing foam. On a rare overcast summer day, several fire trucks were stationed on a grassy area in Colorado’s mountains. Firefighters from the Aspen Fire Protection District gathered around an iPad, piloting a large drone. Featuring black and white colors with propellers, the machine measures about 10 by 12 feet, comparable to a small trailer.

Drones have monitored wildfires for years, but this new model incorporates AI technology. A Seneca drone hovered over town land near Aspen, Colorado, on August 24, 2026. The Aspen Fire Protection District aims to operate these drones independently, becoming the first fire department in the U.S. to do so.

Drone Capabilities and Training

Created by the California company Seneca, the drones can operate as a swarm. Five drones can carry between 500 and 1,000 gallons of fire foam, while local firefighters reported their ease of use. Andy Fisher, Deputy Chief of Aspen Fire, humorously noted that even a child could operate them. When officially launched, Aspen Fire will lead globally in independent drone operation.

“We were just joking that my 12-year-old could fly these things.” — Andy Fisher, Deputy Chief of Aspen Fire

Currently, these drones have been supported by Seneca during prescribed burns in California. With water-release abilities demonstrated during a training session, Fisher envisions deploying drones to remote fires before firefighter arrival.

The Potential of Firefighting Drones

Aspen, surrounded by forests and valuable real estate, presents unique fire risks. Quickly addressing small fires could prevent larger outbreaks. Seneca’s founder Stuart Landesberg shared that drones can bypass difficult terrain swiftly. Equipped with an AI-supported sensor suite, they measure distances and wind speeds to accurately release retardants at desired angles.

“You can think about it almost like a flying Waymo.” — Stuart Landesberg, Seneca Founder

Drones won’t replace air tankers for large fires, Landesberg said, but they offer affordable options for monitoring and controlling hot spots. The technology could decrease costs substantially compared to helicopters and other aircraft.

Investment and Skepticism

The Aspen Fire Department plans to spend $2.5 million over five years, funded by private donors. Other fire departments are watching Aspen’s experience before considering the technology. Joe Stutler, a veteran firefighter and technology advocate, sees potential for overnight operation benefits. Reducing risk for firefighters and pilots is a key advantage.

Despite hope, Stutler remains skeptical as the drones haven’t proven themselves in actual wildfire scenarios. He would consider testing them, conceding that on-the-ground firefighters remain essential.

FAA Approval and Future Plans

The FAA granted the Aspen Fire Department a waiver in late October, enabling drone flights up to 200 feet within Pitkin County. However, the drones cannot operate over populated areas without visual confirmation. If effective, the department aims to broaden their drone utilization across Colorado.