January 18, 2022

Time has a way of marching on. Decades ago, electric utility line workers worked out of trucks that carried ladders, climbing spikes and other relatively simple tools of the day. Today, line trucks are bigger, more powerful, normally have aerial buckets and are laden with the latest technology, which enables crews to work more safely and effectively than ever.

In much the same way, FirstEnergy’s Flight Operations group is ushering in a new era of using aircraft to support utility operations. The two Bell 429 helicopters joining our air fleet – one near Akron and the other in Reading, Pa. – bring new dimensions of safety and mission capability that put our company at the forefront of utility aerial operations. For example, each aircraft has two engines, which increases its payload capacity and enables it to land safely should a problem develop with one of the engines.

“However, it’s not just the aircraft, it’s how they enable us to take a new approach to utility aviation – one that advances the safety of our flight crews to a whole new level,” said Todd Fite, director, Flight Operations.

Consider the makeup of flight crews. Operating helicopters with a single pilot is the standard across most businesses and industries in the U.S. In contrast, FirstEnergy helicopter flight crews include both a pilot and a copilot, allowing the pilot to concentrate on flying the aircraft, while the copilot focuses on overall situational awareness – such as the proximity of transmission wires and towers, tall structures, rising terrain and nearby aircraft. Pilot and copilot both are well trained and capable of switching roles in flight – an obvious boon to safety.

Having a second pilot on board also facilitates the use of peer checking and similar safety and human performance techniques. They watch out for each other much like field workers do on the ground.

“Flying with a copilot is a team effort, especially in the potentially hazardous flying environment around transmission lines. Knowing your partner, being in synch and comfortable with each other is crucial,” said Dave Reese, chief helicopter pilot. “We keep each other sharp – and safe.”

Mission specialists – FirstEnergy employees who operate cameras, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and other on-board inspection equipment – also receive special Flying in the Wires Environment training geared to their role. They are expected to serve as integral members of the crew – for example, by assisting with situational awareness and hazard identification.

“Our helicopter operations are driven by safety rather than the mission, which puts us ahead of the curve compared to how others operate,” said Todd. “Aviation safety experts agree based on experience. We believe it’s the only way to fly.”