Your Co-op is using drones to inspect power lines and electrical equipment more safely and efficiently. These inspections help identify potential issues early, before they lead to outages, equipment failure, or wildfire risk. Crews are focused solely on inspecting and photographing Co-op equipment within the utility right-of-way; not on private property. Imagery is used only for inspection purposes and will be securely stored and held privately.
The drones are being used to inspect utility poles, wires, and electrical equipment on the Co-op's system. They photograph equipment from above and from the sides to help identify defects that may not be visible from the ground. Each pilot may take up to 10 minutes per pole. Crews are focused solely on inspecting and photographing equipment within the utility right-of-way; not on private property. Imagery is used only for inspection purposes and will be securely stored and held privately.
Here is an example of a drone inspection and what it captures:
Members may see a drone flying near utility poles, along with a marked vehicle in the area. The work is being completed by Voltair, a certified contractor working on behalf of the Co-op. The drone typically flies about 10 to 30 feet above poles and may spend a few minutes at each structure.
Flathead Electric has partnered with Voltair, a certified drone inspection contractor, to perform aerial inspections of distribution and transmission infrastructure. Flights are conducted by FAA-certified pilots following strict safety protocols.
Flathead Electric Cooperative and Voltair crews will be working in marked vehicles and will carry identification and official contractor credentials. Members can also verify the work by calling the Co-op directly at 406-751-4483. The Co-op and Voltair will never ask for payment, banking information, or account credentials in connection with these inspections.
Here is an example of what the pilot will be wearing:
Inspection crews will utilize the Co-op's existing rights of way around their electric infrastructure including easements on private property. If conditions require additional access, members will be notified.
Each pilot may spend up to 10 minutes at a pole, though the total time in an area will vary depending on the number of structures, terrain, weather, and access conditions.
Drone inspections in the Libby area are planned for April-May 2026. Additional inspections in communities west of Kalispell are planned for September and October. Timing may vary depending on weather, terrain, and access.
Libby Area Inspection Schedule
Traditional foot patrol inspections are still effective, but they can be time consuming, more costly, and more difficult in rugged or remote terrain. Drone inspections allow crews to assess infrastructure more quickly and safely, while improving visibility of equipment from angles that are not available from the ground.
Drone inspections help identify damaged or deteriorating equipment before it fails. Repairing defects early can reduce the chance of equipment related ignitions and also help prevent outages.