We own and operate Victoria’s electricity transmission network and one of the five 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.
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.
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.
October 2024 aerial patrols
As part of our bushfire safety program we’ll be conducting pre-summer aerial patrols across our network in October.
Our crews will be inspecting our 66kV powerlines to ensure the electricity supply across our network remains safe and reliable as we head into summer.
We will endeavour to 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.
To view the areas where you might see our helicopters, see our maps below.
Want to view the flight path on an interactive map?
To see an interactive map for your selected area, download the KMZ files below and follow these instructions on how to import the map files into Google Maps.
Northern (KMZ, 101 KB), Eastern (KMZ, 157 KB), Central (KMZ, 24 KB).
Monday 14 October - Friday 18 October
Northern areas:
Tuesday 22 October - Friday 25 October
Eastern areas:
Monday 28 October - Thursday 31 October
Central areas:
