News Summary
Starting May 27, low-flying helicopters will be seen over Michigan as ITC conducts aerial inspections of high-voltage transmission lines. The inspections, running until June 30, aim to maintain and ensure the reliability of the electricity service by identifying potential hazards and assessing infrastructure wear. Covering nearly every county in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, these patrols assist in preventive measures against outages and align with industry standards for safety and reliability.
Michigan – Residents across Michigan will notice low-flying helicopters in the skies beginning May 27, as ITC, an independent electricity transmission company based in Novi, conducts aerial patrols of high-voltage transmission lines. These patrols, which are set to run until June 30, aim to survey the condition of transmission structures and lines to ensure reliable electricity service throughout the region.
The aerial inspections will cover nearly every county in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, involving ITC’s operating entities: ITC Transmission and Michigan Electric Transmission Company, LLC (METC). The inspections will focus on identifying any vegetation hazards and assessing the wear and tear of equipment, ensuring that the transmission infrastructure is in optimal condition.
ITC operates approximately 8,700 circuit miles of transmission lines across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and its inspections play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the electric grid. The aerial patrols are part of ITC’s vegetation management program and are mandated by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), an organization that sets standards to ensure the reliability of the North American power system.
During the aerial inspections, crews will fly at low altitudes to allow for close visual monitoring of potential issues affecting transmission lines, including poles, towers, wires, and insulators. The inspections will screen for concerns such as lightning damage, general wear on equipment, and other hazards that could impede electric service.
ITC assures residents that the presence of these low-flying helicopters should not cause alarm. Such aerial patrols are a common industry practice, conducted biannually in both spring and fall to maintain safety and reliability in power transmission.
In addition to the immediate inspections being completed from May 27 to June 30, it is essential for residents to understand the importance of these operations. Regular inspections are vital in preventing outages and ensuring the safety and reliability of the electricity that powers homes and businesses across Michigan.
These efforts align with ITC’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible electricity transmission. The company continuously seeks ways to enhance the monitoring and maintenance of its infrastructure in order to adapt to changing environmental conditions and technology advancements.
As the aerial patrols commence, Michigan residents are encouraged to stay informed about the importance of these inspections and to report any unusual activity surrounding transmission lines. ITC remains dedicated to transparency and communication with the public concerning its operations and the ongoing maintenance of Michigan’s electric transmission infrastructure.
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- WZZM13
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- Wikipedia: Helicopter
- Google Search: aerial inspection of transmission lines
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Helicopter
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
