Those living in Penticton and the surrounding areas may notice increased helicopter activity in the coming weeks, including low-level flyovers.
Talon Helicopters will be conducting annual safety inspections of local natural gas lines for FortisBC starting on Wednesday, May 14, and running until June 14. These will take place during daylight hours and are authorized by Transport Canada.
The low-flying helicopter use LaSen Inc.’s aerial LiDAR detection technology to inspect the high-pressure lines, ensuring everything continues to operate safely and reliably.
The flight schedule may vary depending on weather conditions and wildfires. The areas to be inspected include Penticton, Cawston, Summerland, Kaleden, Naramata, Okanagan Falls, Oliver, Osoyoos, Princeton, Hedley and Keremeos.
Map of Work Zones
Helicopter Training
In addition to the work being done, Penticton Airport is a hub for helicopter training.
In fact, the Penticton-based Topflight helicopter school has trained thousands of military and police pilots from all over the world, including those from the Royal Canadian Air Force, the U.S. Navy Special Forces, the RCMP, Royal Danish Air Force, numerous aviation police force and search and rescue from across North America.
Also based at Penticton Airport is Eclipse Helicopters, which provides a range of services including fire suppression work with BC Wildfire Service, search and rescue missions, hydro/utilities work and other precision work, as well as helicopter tours.
In addition, Penticton Search and Rescue (PENSAR) uses helicopters to respond to calls throughout the region.
For more information about Penticton Airport, visit yyf.penticton.ca.
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