Not all ships carry AIS
The Officer of the Watch (OOW) should always be aware that other ships, and in particular leisure
craft, fishing boats and warships, and some coastal shore stations (including Vessel Traffic Service
centers) might not be fitted with AIS.
The OOW should also be aware that AIS fitted on other ships as a mandatory carriage requirement
might be switched off by the master if its use might compromise the security of the vessel. Thus,
users are therefore cautioned to always bear in mind that information provided by AIS may not be
giv
ing a complete or correct “picture” of shipping traffic in their vicinity.
Use of AIS in collision avoidanc e
As an anti-collision aid the AIS has the following advantages over radar:
• Information provided in near real-time
• Capable of instant presentation of target course alterations
• Not subject to target swap
• Not subject to target loss in clutter
• Not subject to target loss due to fast maneuvers
• Able to detect ships within VHF/FM coverage, including in some circumstances, around bends
and behind islands.
When using the AIS for anti-collision purpo
ses it is important to remember that the AIS is an
additional sour ce of navigation information. It does not replace other navigational systems. The AIS
may not be giving a complete or correct “picture” of shipping traffic in its vicinity.
The use of the AIS does not negate the responsibility of the OOW to comply with all collision
regulation requirements, especially the maintaining of a proper look-out. The prudent navigator
uses all aids available to navigate the ship.
Erroneous information
Erroneous information implies a risk to other ships as well as your own. Poorly configured or
improperly calibrated sensors might lead to incorrect information being transmitted. It is the user’s
responsibility to ensure that all information entered into the system is correct and up to date.
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