ITC will be conducting its semi-annual aerial patrols of high-voltage transmission structures and lines throughout its service territory through Oct. 10, weather permitting.

The helicopter patrols are conducted to provide an overall status of the overhead transmission system that is owned and operated by ITC’s Iowa-based operating entity, ITC Midwest LLC.

According to a press release, the aerial inspections in the company’s north and northeast region will cover an area ranging approximately from the Mississippi River in Dubuque and the Quad-Cities in Iowa through north central Iowa to the southern tier of counties in Minnesota.

The patrols are a requirement for ITC’s vegetation management program, support proactive maintenance objectives and are in line with the company’s model for operational excellence. They include inspections of steel structures, wood poles, conductors, insulators and other equipment. Crews check for damaged or worn equipment and vegetation hazards.

The inspection flights are often conducted at low altitudes to allow accurate visual inspection of equipment for lightning damage, wear or other potential problems. This is normal procedure, so there is no cause for alarm if a low-flying helicopter is sighted near transmission lines.