ITC will be conducting aerial patrols of the high-voltage transmission structures and lines across the state of Michigan over the next month.

Weather permitting, dates for patrol will be between Sep. 8 and Oct. 3. These patrols will provide an overall status of the overhead transmission system that is operated by ITC’s Michigan operating entities, ITC Transmission and Michigan Electric Transmission Company, LLC (METC).

"The helicopters will be flying lower than usual near the transmission lines during these inspections, which is no cause for concern for area residents," said Grace Turner, Senior Integrated Communications Specialist.

Here's a breakdown for our local counties (in alphabetical order):

• Clare County: Between Monday, Sep. 8, and Thursday, Sep. 11
• Isabella County: Between Friday, Sep. 12, and Wednesday, Sep. 17
• Kent County: Between Friday, Sep. 12, and Tuesday, Sep. 23
• Lake County: Between Monday, Sep. 8, and Thursday, Sep. 11
• Mecosta County: Between Friday, Sep. 12, and Wednesday, Sep. 17
• Newaygo County: Between Friday, Sep. 12, and Wednesday, Sep. 17
• Osceola County: *estimated between Monday, Sep. 8, and Thursday, Sep. 11
• Wexford County: Between Monday, Sep. 8, and Thursday, Sep. 11

According to ITC, this is normal procedure, so there is no cause for alarm if a low-flying helicopter is sighted near transmission lines.

For more information, visit https://www.itc-holdings.com/itc-to-conduct-aerial-patrols-of-transmission-lines-in-michigan-fall-2025/.

_{Release info and photo courtesy of ITC and Franco.}