By Andi Anderson
ITC has announced that aerial patrols of high-voltage transmission structures and lines across Michigan will take place from September 8 through October 3, 2025, weather permitting.
These inspections are part of ITCTransmission and Michigan Electric Transmission Company’s (METC) commitment to maintaining the state’s power infrastructure.
Flights are scheduled throughout most of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, covering multiple counties during five phases. The schedule begins September 8–11 in northern and central counties including Alpena, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Midland, and Roscommon.
Patrols continue September 12–17 through central Michigan counties such as Clinton, Kent, and Saginaw, followed by southwest counties like Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Ottawa on September 18–23.
Eastern and metro Detroit counties including Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne will be patrolled September 24–29, with the final flights from September 30–October 3 in southern areas including Monroe, Washtenaw, and Lenawee.
The patrols fulfill North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) requirements for vegetation management and support ITC’s proactive maintenance model.
Crews will inspect transmission structures and equipment such as steel towers, wood poles, conductors, and insulators. Special attention will be given to identifying vegetation hazards, lightning damage, and worn equipment.
Helicopters may operate at low altitudes to ensure accurate visual inspections. ITC emphasized that this is standard procedure, and residents should not be alarmed if they see low-flying helicopters near transmission lines.
By conducting these regular patrols, ITC aims to ensure safe and reliable electricity delivery while upholding its standards for operational excellence across Michigan’s transmission network.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Michigan, Business, Energy