Aerial inspections

We own and operate Victoria’s electricity transmission network and one of the 5 distribution networks.

Each year our Aerial Operations Program inspects around 40,000 poles on our electricity network from the air.

We use specialised helicopters and crew to thoroughly inspect overhead powerlines and poles to ensure the electricity supply across the AusNet distribution network remains safe and reliable.

Why we use helicopters

Helicopters significantly reduce the time taken to inspect an area.

They allow a bird’s-eye view for us to identify, monitor and repair any wear and tear or potential risks to supply, such as deterioration on the topside of poles.

Playing a vital role in keeping communities safe

Our aerial team also provides rapid response to assess damage and resolve any faults/outages that occur on the network after a severe weather event, such as storms, floods, or bushfires.


Protecting you from the noise

We're aware that noise from helicopters can present a risk to some livestock. That's why our specialised pilots remain alert for livestock and, where possible, change course to avoid unsettling animals.

We also send SMS notifications to customers in and around the scheduled flight area.

To ensure you receive these notifications, please update your contact details with your electricity retailer.

 

Smart Aerial Image Processing

From Wednesday 24th April to Friday 10th May 2024, our helicopters will be inspecting all 6500 kilometres of our high-voltage transmission network powerlines using a smart aerial image processing system (SAIP) as part of our annual inspection program.

SAIP uses a high-resolution image capture program to generate a continuous stream of digital images of our assets. The software then processes the images to identify potential defects that we need to address.

Where will this work be happening?

We’ll be conducting low level helicopter SAIP inspections of high voltage transmission lines beginning around Rowville, before moving onto Northeastern Victoria; starting at South Morang and flying through Kinglake and Glenburn.

Our crews will then fly over Taggerty, Elidon, Alexandra, Bonnie Doon and Myrtleford before moving further north-east towards Dederang, Mount Beauty, Albury and Khancoban.


Map image of SAIP inspection flyover areas from 24th April to 10th May.