Article

The International Pilot - Issue Number 48 / July 2020


by IMPA - International Maritime Pilots’ Association - published on 22 December 2021 62 -

Fellow Pilots,

“First of all, I wish to convey my deep appreciation for the work done by all the members of IMPA during this pandemic. Like all seafarers, as essential workers involved in port operations, you are contributing greatly to ensure the delivery of essential goods, in particular, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals which are desperately needed at present.”

This message from IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim in a May, 2020, letter he sent us, is possibly the most gratifying mark of appreciation for the work done by maritime pilots throughout the world during Covid 19. Pilots have truly risen to the occasion, we have adapted our practices as appropriate, and we have helped keep vital supply chains open during one of the darkest time the global community has seen in decades. All pilots in the world can take great pride in this.

They say every crisis presents an opportunity. What is ours? In a world engulfed by change and uncertainty, perhaps it is to provide continuity, and certainty. The certainty that pilots everywhere are steadily doing their job, keeping traffic and trade going, thereby making a very real contribution to the collective good.

We are not heroes. We are as concerned for our health and our loved ones as anyone else. But, by continuing to do our jobs in the most professional manner possible and staying the course, we end up making a difference.

At the same time, a rapidly-changing world is sometimes a bit like a stampede – with fragmented interests trying to take advantage by questioning practices and approaches that have stood the test of time. So, while it is always important to keep an open mind, it is also important to remain cautious.

With some borders still closed, it might also be easy to think that we are now a bit like tidal pools, abandoned by a etreating sea, and therefore a little more separated from one another. Having to take the extraordinary step of postponing our biennial Congress to next year might also add to such a feeling. But, for my part and, I know, for the other members of the Association’s executive as well, if anything, the crisis we have gone through together has reinforced the formidable cohesion and comradeship of pilots worldwide.

I have been in touch with many of you over the last months and I see firsthand how pilots are resilient. Undoubtedly, there are still significant challenges ahead but, by staying well-coordinated and continuing to demonstrate flair in the conduct
of our affairs, I believe pilots will remain wellpositioned, not only to face future challenges but to make a signification contribution to the world’s relaunch.

I very much look forward to soon seeing you again!

Simon Pelletier
What's your opinion on this?
Login or register to write comments and join the discussion!
Read more...

Video Kittiwake Mersey Pilot

published on 22 December 2021

KITTIWAKE ( MMSI 232008570) is a Pilot and currently sailing under the flag of United Kingdom (UK) Here she is speeding down the River this morning.

0

Video Polaris Pilot Boat Antwerp Belgium

published on 15 March 2022

Vessel name: Polaris ; Year built: 2012 ; Flag: Netherlands ; Homeport: Rotterdam Length: 81.2m X 13.3m ; GRT: 2501 ; Callsign: PBZN ; MMSI:245142000 ; IMO: 9496915 Type: Special Vessel / Pilot Ship A "Pilot Ship / Pilot Vessel" is a "special type" of ship in which it accommodates a certain and limited Marine Pilots (Sea, River, Harbor Pilots), it also carries small boats/crafts that are used to tender services to and from the Pilot ship. In a Pilot Vessel, the Pilots can take their time...

1

Video Pilot Leaving Ship Vigo

published on 31 March 2023

0

Article The Risks of Remote Pilotage in an Intelligent Fairway - preliminary considerations

published on 28 July 2021

This paper described some of the characteristics it could offer to be classified as "smart" by reviewing risk management practices and accident statistics using the Finnish port of Rauma.

1

Article Summer Edition of the BPC Pilotage Quarterly published

published on 15 August 2022

The Summer Edition of the Board of Pilotage Commissioners has published the latest edition of their quarterly report "The BPC Pilotage Quarterly"

1

Press Release New Pilot Boat for Port of Townsville

by Port of Townsville - published on 15 March 2021

The Port of Townsville has welcomed the newest addition to its fleet of pilot boats with the arrival of the newly built MANTARAY. The $3.3 million, custom-built vessel utilises high-tech equipment and design to maximise safety and efficiency for pilot transfers.

0

Opinion Obviously fake and manipulated certificates of Pilot Ladders

published on 1 October 2020

On the first day of the "IMPA safety ladder campaign 2020", Joris Stuip, Vice President PTR Holland is rightly upset about obviously fake and manipulated certificates at Pilot Ladders. They are playing with the safety of the pilots.

0

Article Docking Pilot’s Actions Cited in Probable Cause of Allision

published on 26 November 2020

The National Transportation Safety Board issued Marine Accident Brief 20/37 Tuesday for its investigation of the Sept. 23, 2019, accident involving the tugboat G.M. McAllister and the NGL Energy Partners wharf on the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River, near Chesapeake, Virginia.

0

Video Crazy Pilot Boarding when the vessel is rolling heavy

published on 21 December 2019

What a dangerous situation. Never seen that before.

0

Video Pilot Boarding - Accidentology (2001- 2021) - French Maritime Pilots' Association

published on 10 May 2023

The accidentology survey conducted in France between 2001 and 2021 found that pilots face significant risks during transfer phases while embarking or disembarking from ships that they are required to serve. To ensure their safety and improve transfers, pilots develop specific procedures and safety protocols and equip themselves with the necessary gear. These safety measures are presented in the following film that is intended for both novice and experienced pilot boat drivers and pilots,...

1