Is the Coast Guard considering requiring the Automatic Identification System for domestic voyages outside of VTS areas?
What is the Automatic Identification System (AIS)? Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) technology relies upon global navigational positioning systems, shipboard sensors, and digital VHF radio communication equipment operating according to standardized digital communication protocols that permit the voiceless exchange of navigation information between vessels and shore-side vessel traffic centers. The information is continually updated in near real-time and received by all AIS-equipped ships and shore stations in its vicinity. What types of information is made available by the Automatic Identification System and what are the advantages of installing the AIS? The AIS provides mariners with accurate navigation information, such as: In addition, shore stations will be able to relay pertinent navigational data from other sources, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Physical Oceanographic Real Time System (PORTS) and U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Centers. The a
