The U.S. Coast Guard has expanded Automatic Identification System (AIS) requirements to include U.S.- and foreign-flagged vessels that are 300 gross tons or fewer, and extended use of the system to all navigable U.S. waters.
The expanded regulations went into effect this month, and most commercial vessels operating on U.S. waterways now are required to have AIS.
The rule also expands notice of arrival (NOA) requirements to include additional vessels and modifies submission of NOAs to a mandatory electronic method.
The changes are intended to improve navigation safety and enhance Coast Guard ability to identify and track vessels, thereby improving overall maritime domain awareness and helping to address threats to maritime transportation safety and security.
Read the complete rule.
