Aerial Lineman: Longlining in Electrical Linework

Longlining is one of the most thrilling and essential skills in the utility industry, allowing linemen to access remote power lines, maintain electrical infrastructure in rugged terrain, and keep the power flowing no matter the conditions. Our latest video explores longlining and the role of aerial or helicopter linemen. If you’ve ever been curious about how helicopters are used in the utility industry, this guide will give you a solid introduction.

What Is Longlining?

Longlining is a specialized technique in which utility lineworkers are transported via helicopter using a long rope or cable, known as a "longline," to access high-voltage power lines in difficult or hazardous terrain. Instead of using bucket trucks or climbing, linemen are flown directly to the worksite, often hovering near or landing on power structures.

This method is primarily used for:

• Transmission Line Maintenance: Repairing or inspecting power lines in remote areas.
• Storm Damage & Emergency Response: Quickly restoring electricity after disasters like hurricanes or wildfires.
• High-Altitude and Rugged Terrain Work: Accessing areas where vehicles can't go, such as mountains, swamps, or dense forests.

Using helicopters allows crews to enhance efficiency, minimize ground disturbance, and reduce risks compared to traditional access methods.

How to Get into the Field of Longlining

Longlining is a highly specialized skill within the electrical utility industry. If you're looking to break into this line of work, here's what you need to know:

1. Become a Certified Lineworker

Before specializing in longlining, you must first become a trained and certified journeyman lineman.

This requires:

✅An apprenticeship program (typically 3-4 years)

✅Completion of technical schooling in electrical linework

✅Climbing and safety certifications

✅Experience working on transmission lines

Many longlining specialists start as groundmen and work their way up through the ranks before transitioning to helicopter-assisted work.

2. Gain Transmission Line Experience

Longlining is primarily used in high-voltage transmission line maintenance, so getting experience in transmission work (rather than just distribution) is essential. Look for opportunities with utility companies, contractors, or specialized helicopter utility services.

3. Train for Helicopter Line Work

Not every lineman is suited for longlining—it requires a strong safety mindset, confidence in heights, and specialized training. Many companies offer helicopter safety and longlining courses, which cover:

1. Aerial safety procedures
2. Working around energized lines from a helicopter
3. Load securing and proper tool handling
4. Landing and positioning techniques

Some of the most well-known training programs are offered by private utility helicopter companies and industry organizations, such as the Electrical Training Alliance (ETA).

4. Get FR/AR Workwear for Aerial Safety

Longlining exposes linemen to arc flash hazards, rotor wash, and extreme weather conditions. Wearing the right flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) clothing is crucial for protection.

DragonWear offers lightweight, breathable FR gear designed for aerial linemen, including:

• Pro Dry® Tech shirts: Moisture-wicking and comfortable for aerial work.
• Elements™ Cyclone Hoodies: Wind-resistant for open-air flight conditions.
• Alpha™ and Extreme™ Fleece Jackets: Layering for high-altitude and cold-weather operations.

A Frontline Look: Aerial Linemen in Pacific Palisades Fire Recovery

In our latest YouTube film, "Rebuilding the Grid: Long-Line Heroes in Pacific Palisades Fire Recovery," we share a rare, behind-the-scenes look at aerial linemen working to restore power after the devastating Pacific Palisades wildfire. 

Flying into rugged terrain and battling challenging conditions, these highly skilled linemen are essential to power restoration efforts in hard-hit communities like Malibu, California. It’s a part of the recovery process that few ever witness firsthand, and we’re honored to showcase the resilience and dedication it takes to restore electricity after a disaster. 

As journeyman lineman Brian Wheeler shares in the video, "There's a lot of damage up here, but there's a lot of homes that survived and they're still going to need power." Their work isn’t just about fixing lines; it’s about helping communities rebuild hope after unimaginable loss.

About DragonWear

All DragonWear® FR fabrics are inherently flame-resistant, tested in-house and at independent state-of-the-art laboratories, and pass relevant industry certifications. We use advanced proprietary fabric technology to support our design philosophy that comfort and protection are inclusive elements. Our products offer the ultimate breathable, moisture-wicking performance without sacrificing water-resistant durability and wind-repellant warmth. The permanent fire-resistant protection won't melt, drip, or wear off and cannot be washed away. Designing and delivering a quality garment each and every time is essential to the vitality of our products and our overarching mission to support and protect a customer base that operates in life-risking environments every day.