FortisBC will be conducting low-level aerial work within Squamish city limits for the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) Project. Sara Andrews, the General Manager of Ascent Helicopters, recently informed council they will be doing low-level aerial work for Fortis BC within Squamish city limits.
Ascent Helicopters Ltd. will be using a twin engine, Bell Helicopter 206L4T for this purpose.
“Fortis BC’s transmission pipeline infrastructure requires monthly aerial patrols to evaluate and report on current activity that may pose a threat to the pipeline, endanger the public, or encroach on the statutory right of way,” she wrote.
All flights will be conducted in accordance with the Canadian Aviation Regulations and the intended work is scheduled to occur one day per month from November 01, 2023 until September 30, 2025. “Our Transport Canada Flight Permit dates reflect the entirety of our contract to accommodate Fortis BC’s requirements for patrol frequency, additional patrols that may be requested, emergency flights, or monitoring environmental concerns such as flooding or fire,” she added.
The low-level air patrol is expected to be less than 45 minutes in duration and will be conducted during daylight operating hours from 08:30 am to 6 pm.
Flights will only be conducted over the Fortis BC right of way and primary landing zones will be at established airports or aerodromes. There will be no interruption to the public, nor will there be any increase to public safety.
The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) and Squamish Nation recently approved an increase in footprint for the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) Project, from two hectares to seven hectares. Fortis has now applied for a Temporary Use Permit from the District of Squamish to construct a lodge for workers and Fortis expects a decision from the District in early 2024.
At least they are using a twin engine helicopter so they won’t be making emergency landings if a engine goes South.