Pilots in the Marine Traffic System

Abstract

To the world's marine traffic system has been introduced a new and sometimes controversial element—Vessel Traffic Systems (VTS)—representing a necessary governmental attempt at more orderly management of marine traffic, to increase a no longer politically adequate overall level of safety. However, VTS overlaps some of the traditional interests and functions of pilots. Both are concerned with the safe and efficient movements of the ship. The pilots' self-respect—even their livelihood—is seen to be threatened. Under these circumstances, VTS cannot realize its full potential. But VTS is here to stay. To help overcome these very natural human problems here in the United States, any approach could include: (1) upgrading the senior VTS watchstander; (2) compulsary negotiation of vessel passage plans between pilots and VTS; (3) nationwide minimum federal qualifications and standards for pilots, and rules for their use; (4) temporary assignment of pilots to the Vessel Traffic Center (VTC) in extremely bad weather; (5) required pilot training time in a VTC; and (6) otherwise offering pilots a more active role in VTS.