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Posted: June 19th, 2023
Impact of Automatic Identification System (AIS) on Safety of Marine Navigation.
The implementation of Automatic Identification System (AIS) has significantly improved safety of navigation at sea. AIS allows vessels to automatically share and regularly update their position, course, speed, and other information with other nearby ships and coastal authorities (International Maritime Organization [IMO], 2022). This paper examines how AIS has enhanced situational awareness and reduced the risk of collisions for marine traffic.
AIS was first mandated by the IMO in 2002 for certain ship types and on certain voyages (IMO, 2022). Since then, its use has expanded considerably. AIS utilizes VHF radio signals to broadcast and receive data about a vessel’s identity, type, position, course, speed, navigational status, and other safety-related information (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA], n.d.). Data is continuously transmitted even if the operator does not issue a DSC distress call. This allows nearby vessels and shore stations to view information on ships in their vicinity.
AIS has provided numerous benefits. It allows for early detection of potential collisions, giving vessels more time to maneuver safely. Studies have found AIS reduces the risk of collisions. One analysis of AIS data from the English Channel determined AIS helped prevent over 500 close-quarter situations from 2016 to 2018 that may have resulted in accidents without the technology (EuroControl, 2021). AIS also aids search and rescue efforts. When combined with emergency beacons, it helps rescuers locate distressed vessels more rapidly (NOAA, n.d.).
Coastal authorities now leverage AIS to conduct more effective maritime domain awareness and enforcement activities. For example, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) uses AIS to monitor vessel traffic, identify noncompliant ships, and coordinate responses to incidents or potential threats (NOAA, n.d.). The technology has become integral to modern port and waterway management systems worldwide. AIS data is analyzed to optimize traffic routing, predict congestion, and plan infrastructure improvements (EuroControl, 2021).
In certain areas, AIS may have limitations. Signal range depends on antenna height and can be reduced by atmospheric conditions or vessel obstructions (NOAA, n.d.). Additionally, some smaller craft are not required to carry AIS transceivers. However, as the technology continues to be adopted more widely, its overall impact on safety will likely increase further in the coming years. AIS has transformed situational awareness at sea, allowing for more informed navigation decisions that have undoubtedly prevented accidents.
References
EuroControl. (2021). AIS data helps prevent over 500 near-misses in English Channel. https://www.eurocontrol.int/news/ais-data-helps-prevent-over-500-near-misses-english-channel
International Maritime Organization. (2022). AIS transponders. https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/AIS.aspx
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration research paper writing service. (n.d.). What is AIS? https://nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/publications/docs/what-is-ais.html
Robards, M. D., Silber, G. K., Adams, J. D., Arroyo, J., Lorenzini, D., Schwehr, K., & Amos, J. (2016). Conservation science and policy applications of the US AIS network. Marine Policy, 66, 107–115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2016.01.015
Ziarati, R., Ziarati, M., & Abaei, M. (2021). The promises and perils of Automatic Identification System data. Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives, 9, 100317. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trip.2021.100317
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