Plane will buzz Mighty Mac - on purpose

NEWS RELEASE

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

*************************

Plane to fly near Mackinac Bridge Wednesday afternoon to focus on safety inspection
 
(July 17, 2012) - The Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) today announced that a small plane will fly near the Mackinac Bridge on Wednesday afternoon as part of a routine safety inspection.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requires the MBA to perform an underwater bridge inspection once every five years and the consultant wants to capture images of its workers.

The aerial filming is tentatively planned for 1 to 2 p.m.
 
"Aerial photos of the safety inspection will provide the diving consultants with unique images for future use," said MBA executive Secretary Bob Sweeney. "They are required to follow all flight rules and should be finished within an hour."

The MBA is contracting with Great Lakes Engineering Group, LLC from Lansing, who will work with the Underwater Construction Corp. to perform the underwater inspections.
               
*************************