An aerial cable is an insulated cable usually containing all fibres required for a telecommunication line, which is suspended between utility poles or electricity pylons. Aerial optical cables are available in a variety of designs to suit every overhead application. Besides the use of special cables on transmission and distribution towers or poles, the installation of fiber optic cables for utilities may require the shutdown of electrical distribution for installation, although some installations are possible without shutdown. FO-VC2 JOINT USE - VERICAL MIDSPAN CLEARANCES 48. Key advantages include: Cost.