On 3rd December 2018, an autonomously controlled ferryboat was operated between Parainen and Nauvo, says Finnish Transport Safety Agency (Trafi). The trial was carried out by Rolls-Royce and Finnish state-owned ferry operator Finferries.
"Trafi has followed the project’s design and implementation arrangements. We want to contribute to the automation of maritime navigation and to ensure that both autonomous and remote-controlled journeys are carried out safely and in accordance with regulations,“ says Department Manager Juha-Matti Korsi.
Finland promotes autonomous maritime development in international sectors.
Practical trials are important steps in increasing maritime digitalisation and automation. Finland is actively engaged in the work of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and in the EU for the modernisation of international maritime legislation.
"Our goals are to promote digitalisation, automation and the use of new technology, as well as ensuring maritime safety. In developing legislation, we need concrete, successful trials to demonstrate the functionality and safety of new practices," says Trafi’s Maritime Director Tuomas Routa.
"We can be proud of the fact that our entire maritime cluster and authorities are working hard to promote future maritime opportunities. Together, we have succeeded in raising Finland to become one of the world's top players in this sector,” Routa emphasises.