Low-Flying Helicopter To Be Used To Inspect Power Lines In East Brunswick

JCP&L will use a low-flying helicopter to conduct aerial patrols for the next two weeks, police said.

Haverfield Co. was scheduled to start conducting JCP&L’s Spring Transmission Aerial Patrol on Monday. The work generally takes about two weeks, weather permitting.

Police said the helicopter is expected to fly between 20 and 30 mph along the transmission lines and could hover for closer inspections.

According to JCP&L, the inspections are being done across the company’s service area. Observers aboard the helicopters are able to get a clear view of the overhead equipment, according to the company.

“Helicopter inspections provide a safe, timely and cost-effective way to patrol transmission circuits in their entirety,” Tony Hurley, JCP&L vice president of operations, said in a prepared statement. “The inspections provide valuable information and help us take proactive steps to improve service reliability.”

According to a JCP&L news release, the inspections are part of the company’s plan to spend about $267 million on projects this year that will “enhance and maintain a strong electrical system and help meet future load growth in its 13-county service area.”

The helicopter scheduled to be used in East Brunswick is a black MD500 with red letters, with registration (tail) number N8330P.