International Study on Remote Pilotage Reveals Key Challenges and Opportunities

A new report from the International Study on Remote Pilotage reveals that while proposed remote pilotage solutions show promise, several significant challenges must be overcome before they can be implemented. The report was published by the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) in collaboration with the Canadian National Centre of Expertise on Maritime Pilotage (NCEMP) and the Canadian Coast Guard.

The study assessed the technical readiness of these remote pilotage solutions and detailed the current capabilities of the technologies involved. It identified critical challenges, including the need for system redundancy and support for essential pilotage tasks, which must be resolved before trials can commence in mandatory pilotage areas.

The report also highlights risks associated with shared situational awareness, collision avoidance, relative navigation, and maneuvering near other vessels and infrastructure. Captain Alain Arseneault, executive director of NCEMP, noted that the initial phase aimed to explore existing solutions without being overly prescriptive, but the anticipated interest did not materialize. He suggested that a more detailed set of goal-based requirements could help identify a viable solution for further study.

The findings stem from desktop assessments of remote pilotage solutions submitted by manufacturers and system integrators in response to an IMPA request for information (RFI) issued in November 2024. Lloyd’s Register served as the technical advisor during these assessments conducted in April and May 2025.

Canadian Coast Guard Commissioner Mario Pelletier expressed satisfaction with the contribution to this international initiative, emphasizing its role in exploring the future of navigation services. The insights gained will enhance their services and prepare them for future needs while sharing lessons globally.

IMPA stressed the importance of developing mature solutions to understand the capabilities, limitations, and prerequisites of remote pilotage in mandatory areas like ports, canals, rivers, and lakes. The association acknowledged skepticism regarding remote pilotage trials and highlighted the necessity for further technical advancement.

To facilitate future development, IMPA and its partners plan to release a revised RFI with detailed requirements for remote pilotage trials in mandatory areas by the end of this year. Interested manufacturers and system integrators are encouraged to reach out to IMPA or NCEMP for more information.

IMPA President Simon Pelletier remarked that while they have glimpsed the potential of remote pilotage, they are not yet ready for implementation. He emphasized the importance of conducting trial phases that are not limited by technological constraints, as artificial limitations would hinder the study’s objectives.

Founded in 1970, IMPA represents pilots from over 50 countries, boasting more than 8 000 members.