Helicopter power line installation

High Line Helicopters was hired as an independent contractor by J. Didado employees to job sites for new power line construction. First Energy Corporation hired J. Didado to perform the construction. A static line was affixed to the top of the structures above the power lines. One lineman completed the task from the skid of the hovering helicopter, and another lineman inside the helicopter passed tools and equipment back and forth to the lineman on the skid.

The pilot then repositioned the helicopter so that the linemen could repeat the steps on the next structure. During a postaccident interview, the pilot reported that he and the linemen the crew met earlier in the day and flew to one of the structures to assess the work and tools required to complete the task. The helicopter then returned to the landing zone and was refueled before departing on the accident flight.

The crew completed one structure, and the pilot hovered the helicopter into position so that work could begin on the next structure. Once the helicopter was in position, the lineman on the helicopter skid attached the first half of the armor rod ahead of the dolly and manipulated the line and the dolly to complete the wrap. The pilot and the linemen began work without installing a safety strap. The helicopter descended vertically between and adjacent to the dual-pole structure.

The tailboom and the six rotor blades from the main rotor separated from the helicopter during the descent. The first helicopter certified for civilian use became available in , and helicopters have only grown more efficient and reliable since then. Nowadays, construction project managers frequently hire helicopter crane services to lend cost-effective support to all types of utility construction jobs, from power line and pipeline installation to aerial inspections and maintenance.

Helicopter pilots and their experienced linemen can provide the construction support and specialized services you need for your power line construction project, from the initial project survey to the final inspection. Maybe you need to replace old electric power transmission lines to ensure electric reliability for your customers.

No matter the type of power line project, an aerial crane can help you tackle the various challenges and tasks required to successfully complete the job, including:. Utility helicopters are also beneficial for routine power line inspections and maintenance work. Once your hired crew has identified potential hazards, they can perform the necessary power line maintenance and emergency repairs required to avoid disruption of the power grid and subsequent revenue loss.

Helicopter-aided maintenance services for energy lines may include installation, repair, or replacement of:. Helicopter lifting services are also a viable option for speeding up your pipeline construction project.