5.

MARITIME TRAFFIC SUPPORT AND ADVISORY SYSTEMS

Background – The use of the oceans is becoming
more intensive as a result of the increase in maritime
transport and other uses, such as offshore exploration
and the exploitation of traditional and renewable energy
sources, fishing and tourism (including the growth of
cruise shipping, for example in Polar waters, and other
maritime-based leisure activities).
In more crowded seas, with greater traffic density
and larger ships, shipping routes will need to be
supported by better and clearer information systems
(including through meteorological, oceanographic and
hydrographic services, aids to navigation, lights houses
and technology such as Vessel Traffic Services (VTS),
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
and satellite communication technology), for vessels to
achieve the required efficiency while enhancing safety.
Goal – A Sustainable Maritime Transportation System
requires co-operation and harmonization in the
development of optimal systems for navigation, including
pilotage and ice breaking services, where necessary, the
use of intelligent routeing systems and aids for weather
routeing, including e-navigation, so as to optimize safety
and fuel efficiency, without undermining the Master’s
authority and competency in the operation of the vessel.
Reliable charts, based on up-to-date hydrographic,
oceanographic and environmental data are of paramount
importance. Consideration should also be given to
further expansion of traffic information systems such as
the Marine Electronic Highway concept.

Likewise, rapid technological advances in aids to

navigation bring challenges for both safety and
efficiency, as does the general lack of standardization
in the shipping industry with respect to harmonization
of equipment and systems. E-navigation is expected
to integrate existing and new navigational tools, in
particular electronic tools, in an all-embracing system
that will contribute to enhanced navigational safety while
simultaneously reducing the burden on the navigator.

IMO’s Partners – The maritime technology support

cluster; ship managers; ships’ crews; as well as flag
administrations and port authorities; intergovernmental
organizations, such as the International Hydrographic
Organization (IHO); and international organizations,
such as the International Association of Marine Aids to
Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).

16