On our patrols, any and all conditions that may affect pipeline integrity or operations are reported immediately. We are Kinder Morgan’s eyes in the sky, and I take my role in the pipeline’s safety very seriously.

Linnea and her team provide the aerial patrols for the Trans Mountain Aerial Pipeline Protection Program. Her goal is to make sure that all is well along the existing pipeline right-of-way, and should the proposed expansion be approved, along that line as well.

We asked Linnea to tell us about her role in keeping the pipeline safe from the air.

What does your job entail?

We provide the aerial pipeline patrols, monitoring Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain pipeline from Edmonton, AB to Burnaby, BC. We also patrol segments of the pipeline in Washington State, as well as the jet fuel lines from the Chevron facility in Burrard Inlet to Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

We are monitoring for right-of-way encroachment by third-party activity, as well as natural anomalies, to ensure the safety and integrity of the Trans Mountain pipeline and facilities. The pilot flies a Bell Jet Ranger 206B, while I sit up front and observe the pipeline right-of-way. A pilot and observer are required in order to manage air traffic, obtain still photos and accurately mark sighting locations.

We use various methods of technology while flying the right-of-way, including GIS mapping systems. We have provided the aerial pipeline patrols for Kinder Morgan Canada (KMC) since 2010.

What is your background and what drew you to this work?

I worked as an operator with Newalta at its facility in Winfield, BC. Newalta helps companies by reducing their waste, enhancing recycling and recovering resources from industrial residues.

I wanted a long-term career in the oil and gas industry, but wanted to explore other positions within BC. Through networking and my experience in the heli-skiing industry, it led me to Valley Helicopters Limited (VHL). I have been with Valley Helicopters just short of a year and hope to continue with my position for years to come.

How important is safety to you and your coworkers?

Working in and around helicopters, safety is number one. VHL is committed to the safety of all areas of its operations and is dedicated to continually seek methods of improving the safety culture within the company.

We implement active Environment and Health Safety and Safety Management Systems, which include risk management programs and recurrent safety training.

Can you describe how the culture of safety at VHL aligns with Kinder Morgan’s culture?

VHL considers its aerial patrols an integral part of KMC’s pipeline protection. We follow our mandate of safety, along with the strict guidelines outlined in KMC’s scope of work. We work closely as a team with all pipeline protection reps, with clear communication with ground patrol and the main control centre.

On our patrols, any and all conditions that may affect pipeline integrity or operations are reported immediately. We are Kinder Morgan’s eyes in the sky, and I take my role in the pipeline’s safety very seriously.

How would you describe the people you work with?

I work with a great team at VHL. To describe the team as dedicated would be an understatement. We are very proud of every flight we take on, and our seamless record over the last 30 years of operations proves that.

Each and every day, our team strives to live up to that stellar track record.

How do you feel about the environment?

I respect and enjoy the environment. But, like everyone else, I rely on oil and gas for daily living. Living in our beautiful province, and being able to enjoy the picturesque surroundings is a privilege and something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

I’m part of a team that works hard to keep the environment safe for our enjoyment today and for the generations to come.

What do you love most about your job?

The people I work with! Coworkers that will help each other out at a moment’s notice means a lot. It takes a cohesive team to make day-to-day operations work. The engineers who keep us safe in the air, the pilots and their acute knowledge of the valley and dispatch that makes sure we are safe and sound at the hangar when the day is over.

And of course, when the patrol is finished and we are in transit back to the hangar, it sure is nice to be able to take in the view.