Two single seat air tankers collide while trying to contain Bishop Fire near Caliente

UPDATE: Both pilots were tragically killed in the crash.

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Two single engine air tankers collided while trying to contain a wildfire near Caliente, officials said Thursday afternoon.

According to Federal Aviation Administration, two single-engine Air Tractor AT8T airplanes were deployed to help battle the Bishop Fire, about 17 miles southwest of Caliente.

Authorities said they collided around 1:00 p.m. and that one person was aboard each aircraft at the time of the crash.

Several fire crews were said to be establishing an anchor point and constructing a line around the fire sometimes Wednesday, officials said.

The accident occurred near the intersection of Kane Springs Road and Riggs Road, the FAA said.

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office did not immediately release details on the pilots' conditions.

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash.