Maui Electric Company will be using unmanned aircraft, or drones, and a helicopter for routine aerial power line inspections from today through Friday.

As part of the aerial survey, documentation will be done with a remote light detection and ranging surveying instrument to provide updated maps of the island’s transmission lines and other electrical infrastructure.

Company representatives say the drones, or Unmanned Aircraft Systems, are being used as a cost effective measure when accessing remote areas or challenging terrains, for increased employee safety, and to reduce the company’s carbon footprint.

The inspections are weather permitting.