US Coast Guard issues RFI on integration of autonomous commercial vessels into maritime transportation system

The US Coast Guard, through a recently issued request for information (RFI), has begun seeking input regarding the introduction and development of automated and autonomous commercial vessels and vessel technologies subject to US jurisdiction, on US-flagged commercial vessels, and in US port facilities.

The coast guard is also seeking input regarding barriers to the development of autonomous vessels.

The RFI aims to solicit the public’s view on issues related to the opportunities, challenges, and impacts of automated and autonomous commercial vessels and vessel technologies.

The coast guard said it views public participation as essential to understanding the emerging automated and autonomous commercial vessels and vessel technologies, how vessel owners and operators foresee implementing such technologies, and the coast guard’s role with regard to such technologies. The service will consider all information, comments, and material received during the comment period.

The deadline of submission of responses to the RFI is October 13, 2020.