Xcel Inspecting Transmission Lines by Air

UNDATED - Xcel Energy will be inspecting their transmission lines by helicopter again.

The inspections in Minnesota and the eastern Dakotas start today (Monday) and should take about six weeks.

The helicopter flights enable crews to look for defects or loose fittings.  The patrols will occur during daylight hours, and the helicopter will fly within 50 feet of the lines.