Eversource Beginning Helicopter Inspections of Transmission Lines in Canton

CANTON, CT — Eversource is conducting aerial inspections of high voltage electrical equipment on rights-of-way in north-central Connecticut. This inspection is an important part of the company’s ongoing commitment to providing reliable electric service, and involves the use of low-flying helicopters equipped with high-resolution cameras, which can detect potential equipment issues before they occur.

“Over a million customers in Connecticut depend on us every day for reliable electric service,” said Craig Hallstrom, Regional Electric Operations President at Eversource. “These helicopter inspections of our transmission lines are a crucial part of our commitment to reducing the frequency and duration of power outages.”

Eversource’s high-resolution camera inspections will begin Monday in Hartford County. These inspections are expected to take up to three weeks to complete.

"There are variables that affect scheduling - weather being the primary one. Also, some sections of the lines may require more than one flyover," Eversource spokesman Mitch Gross said.

Weather-permitting, the inspection will take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. using two black MD500 helicopters with registration numbers N371EE and N500LK.

The region’s transmission system is the backbone of the electric grid. Overhead inspections of transmission lines and equipment – often located upwards of 100 feet in the air – help engineers detect potential problems in advance, allowing the company to schedule necessary maintenance and upgrades before reliability issues arise.

Photo credit: Eversource