ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – PNM is telling residents not to be alarmed if they see a helicopter flying low over powerlines in their neighborhood. It’s part of the company’s new aerial inspection program.
In a press release, PNM states that the company recently hired engineers from EDM International, Inc. that will look over its infrastructure ahead of wildfire season. The helicopters will fly above powerlines and take pictures that will be sent to PNM so the company can fix any issues they say could contribute to fires.
“Nothing is 100 percent preventable but being prepared and practicing these types of tactics and really enhancing what we are doing to get a better view of system and our service area is a big part to hoping to prevent a wildfire or to at least do our part,” said Meaghan Cavanaugh, a spokesperson for PNM. “This aerial inspection program will help us review vegetation, rights of way any potential issues that we may see in our infrastructure and allow us to develop a plan to fix or mitigate any issue that we have recognized through this inspections.”
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The company reports that as PNM’s service area covers many regions of New Mexico including various terrain, the helicopter can help navigate these areas saving time and providing a bird’s eye view of the electric system.
PNM warns customers to be aware as the helicopter may fly low over powerlines however, there is no cause for concern. The program started on October 25, 2021, and is expected to be completed by November 30, 2021.
