FKEC Conducts Transmission Maintenance via Helicopter

FKEC is currently using contracted helicopter crews to complete maintenance on transmission pole tops throughout our system — Marathon to Ocean Reef.

This work includes preventative repairs on 130 transmission pole tops identified as needing maintenance during our annual systemwide inspection, as well as replacing insulators on transmission poles from Marathon to Islamorada.

To reach the pole tops, the aerial crews either work from the helicopter or swing on to poles. Yes, we said “swing.” To replace insulators on some of our 138,000-volt water crossing transmission structures, the linemen hang on a rope from the helicopter, which drops them onto the 80-foot or taller poles.

While this can be eye-catching, PLEASE DRIVE SAFE, keeping your focus on the road and not the helicopter overhead.

The work will be done Monday-Friday primarily to poles along U.S. 1. FKEC anticipates the project to take two to three months, depending on weather conditions. The daily location, between Marathon and Ocean Reef, will be determined by wind and traffic conditions.

Business owners and residents near U.S. 1 are asked to secure any loose items near or below the main transmission lines. Again, use caution when in the area of the maintenance in progress.