FortisBC are conducting fly-bys of their transmission lines over the coming weeks, via helicopter flights over a number of Island communities. (FortisBC)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

helicopters

Aerial inspection of Fortis BC lines taking place across central Island

Sep 21, 2025 | 5:54 AM

NANAIMO — Keen observers will notice some additional aircraft in the skies over the coming weeks.

Fortis BC, through contractors Talon Helicopters and LaSen Inc. will be conducting a series of low level flights over multiple communities in both the Regional District of Nanaimo and the Cowichan Valley Regional District.

The flights are to inspect gas line infrastructure including transmission lines.

“The inspections are anticipated to place from September 23 through mid to late October, depending on weather conditions,” a spokesperson from FortisBC told NanaimoNewsNOW. “Flight time over a single area will be minimal.”

The flights are estimated to begin in the interior, then onto Vancouver Island and finish in the Lower Mainland.

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Flights will also take place over other Island communities including Port Alberni, Comox, Courtenay and Duncan.

“Due to the nature of the flight path and the schedule being highly dependent on weather conditions, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact date the helicopter will pass over each municipality.”

The bulk of helicopter activity over eastern Vancouver Island is expected to be in early or mid October.

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