Chelan PUD to begin annual transmission line inspections by helicopter

WENATCHEE — Chelan County Public Utility District will begin its annual helicopter inspection of high-voltage transmission lines next week, the utility announced Friday.

The low-flying helicopter flights are scheduled to start Monday, weather permitting, and will cover approximately 300 miles of transmission infrastructure. The route includes lines stretching from Cashmere to Malaga and north to the Chelan-Manson area.

The inspections are part of routine maintenance to ensure the integrity of the PUD’s power delivery system. The aircraft used will be a grey and white Long Ranger helicopter bearing tail number 902EH.

Chelan PUD plans to continue the inspections in a few weeks, once remaining snow has melted, on lines extending from Cashmere to Stevens Pass.

Residents may notice the helicopter flying low and slowly over the lines as crews perform visual inspections.