Denmark launches remote pilotage trials for maritime safety
Denmark has commenced a test programme for remote pilotage, following approval from the Danish Emergency Management Agency.
This initiative, led by DanPilot and Danelec, is claimed to be the first of its kind globally.
Launched after six years of development, the remote pilotage system enables pilots to navigate vessels from a control centre in Randers, utilising real-time data transmitted directly from the ships.
The objective of this programme is to bolster pilot safety while simultaneously reducing fuel consumption for vessels, all without compromising navigational safety.
The approval for the test programme is part of a broader initiative to improve safety and preparedness at sea, laying the groundwork for future regulations and potential broader applications both domestically and internationally.
The remote pilotage trials will take place in the Kattegat and the western Baltic Sea, allowing pilots to guide selected vessels through Danish waters without the need for physical boarding.
During the testing phase, the technology will be employed exclusively on vessels that meet specific technical criteria and within designated areas. It is projected that remote pilotage could apply to up to 10% of DanPilot’s operations in Danish waters.
The trials will involve collaboration with various shipping companies, including Maersk, which will provide vessels for the testing area.
DanPilot CEO Erik Merkes Nielsen said: “Remote pilotage makes our work safer and helps reduce both CO₂ emissions and operational costs for our customers. We have worked intensively towards this for six years, and now we can finally test it in practice.”
This information is sent in real time to DanPilot’s control centre, where pilots utilise Danelec’s software to analyse the data and deliver precise navigational instructions without being physically present on board.
The test programme is set to last for up to 18 months and will encompass approximately 50 pilotages.
It will apply to vessels in the Kattegat and western Baltic Sea with a draft of under 13m and will only be conducted during transits that do not require compulsory pilotage.
Danelec CEO Casper Jensen said: “Remote pilotage is not only a technological breakthrough – it is a strategic step towards safer and more sustainable shipping. We are proud to deliver the technological infrastructure that enables safe navigation without the physical presence of a pilot.”
In 2022, Danelec introduced two web-based VDR services for ship managers, providing VDR status updates and remote access to onboard VDRs.
