See A Helicopter With A Strange Pole Hanging Underneath? Here’s What It Is
August 8, 2019
Have you seen a helicopter with a long rod or pole hanging from it? Several readers contacted us asking about it, and here’s what we found.
PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, which generates and supplies power to Escambia River Electric Cooperative, is is conducting right-of-way clearance on transmission power lines in the North Escambia area over the next couple of weeks.
They are using a Hughes 369D helicopter with a suspended aerial power saw to accomplish this task. The saw has ten, 24-inch blades that swing back and forth trimming trees and other foliage in close proximity of the high voltage lines. Periodic right-of-way service is necessary to keep power lines clear of tree brush so they will not cause harm to people or a disruption in electrical service.
Photos courtesy EREC for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Comments
12 Responses to “See A Helicopter With A Strange Pole Hanging Underneath? Here’s What It Is”
Wow!!! Mind blown.
Good job
That’s the first thing I thought of too the James Bond Movie! Yes. That has to be a top notch pilot with nerves of steel. The slightest wind I would think causes a few skipped heartbeats. Prayers for all who do such great jobs. Be safe. Will start looking for them now!
Heli-chopper
The James Bond Movie “The World Is Not Enough” had one of these in it.
If you want to see how the US Navy does this sort of stuff Google or Bing “helicopter minesweeping” I spent 10 years in this community and I’m a Plankowner of Helmineron Fifteen (HM-15)
I was one of those questioning. We saw it yesterday close to our home .
Thank you for answering inquiring minds.
Well I obviously picked the wrong job on career day! I bet that is a awesome way to make a living and also gets paid handsomely
wonder if they do hedges?
HAHAHA
That rig requires an experienced pilot and a steady hand. It is a treat to see it in action.
That is awesome !!! Would love to see it in action. Thank you NorthEscambia for keeping us informed.
So cool to see!
Thanks for letting us know!
Thanks for ALL of the info you put on here!