| AIS
NOTICES
AIS Advisory
The Coast Guard has noticed that many Automatic Identification
System (AIS) users are not updating their unit to accurately reflect
voyage related information—navigation status, static draft,
destination, ETA, etc. Further, the Coast Guard has encountered
AIS units that either do not transmit at all or improperly transmit
the vessel’s dynamic data—position, course, speed, heading,
etc. The former problem requires due diligence on behalf of the
user, the latter is most likely due to the improper installation
or operation of external sensors—gyro or heading device and
vessel GPS system—inputted into the AIS. AIS users are compelled
to properly operate their AIS at all times (33 CFR § 164.46).
They should pay close attention to these matters, and are encouraged
to make each other aware of AIS discrepancies they come upon. Improper
operation of AIS could subject the user to civil penalties not to
exceed $25,000.
Note, AIS data can be invaluable, however, as with any source of
navigation information; it should not be solely relied upon in making
navigational and collision-avoidance decisions. Further, while AIS
allows for safety related ship-to-ship text messaging to communicate
with others and make passing arrangements, these communications
do not meet the requirements of the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone
Act (33 U.S.C. 1201 et. seq.) for broadcasts on the designated bridge-to-bridge
channel, nor do they relieve a vessel operator from the Navigation
Rules requirement to sound whistle signals or display signals.
To report an AIS problem or for
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