First Helicopter Live‑Line Operation Completed on Hami–Chongqing ±800 kV Kunyu Line

Video by Zhang Zimo

The first helicopter live-line operation on the Hami–Chongqing ±800 kV Kunyu (Barkol–Yubei) Line has been completed in Dingxi, Gansu Province. Jointly implemented by State Grid Gansu Ultra-High Voltage Company and State Grid Power Space Technology Co., Ltd., the operation adopted a helicopter sling‑load method to precisely eliminate potential equipment hazards, laying a secure foundation for the reliable, cross-regional transmission of DC clean energy.

The Kunyu Line is the third major DC transmission trunk line originating in Xinjiang. It runs from Hami, Xinjiang, to Yubei District, Chongqing, with a total length of 2,290 kilometers. The Gansu section serves as a core hub connecting cross-regional transmission links from Xinjiang and is a key channel supporting the West-to-East Power Transmission Program. Gansu is a vital energy transmission channel for the West-to-East Power Transmission Program. The province currently operates seven UHV lines, with a total O&M length of UHV DC lines of 6,060 kilometers. This operation is the first UHV live-line defect elimination operation in the Gansu Power Grid this year. It effectively enhanced the safety of cross-regional energy channels and provides robust support for reliable power supply to Sichuan and Chongqing. (By Sun Xichun)