Industry outcry has forced the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) to postpone the withdrawal of paper navigational charts for another four years to 2030
Vessel owners, operators and users called on the UKHO to delay its plans to phase out production of paper charts in preference to electronic versions in 2026.
In response, the producer of Admiralty standard nautical charts and thematic charts announced it would extend their supply beyond 2026. However, the maritime industry should expect production of these key vessel navigation charts to cease and continue to adopt electronic chart systems in time for their withdrawal in the next seven years.
“As we further develop digital navigation solutions, our long-term intention to withdraw from paper chart production remains unchanged and we will continue to withdraw elements of our chart portfolio over the coming period, on a case-by-case basis,” said UKHO chief executive Peter Sparkes.
“However, having listened to the feedback we have received and in light of the consequential impact of the international technical and regulatory steps required to develop digital alternatives, we will be extending the overall timetable for this process.”
In July 2022, the UKHO said it would halt production of paper charts in 2026 after consultation with the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency and national user groups. Then followed a period of consultation with international stakeholders and organisations to determine the impact to and viewpoints from distributors, defence customers, commercial and leisure users, international regulatory authorities and colleagues in the global hydrographic community.
These conversations highlighted several important transnational and regulatory factors that needed further consideration.
“It has become clear that more time is required to address the needs of those specific users who do not yet have viable alternatives to paper chart products, so we will continue to provide a paper chart service until at least 2030,” said the UKHO.
But the organisation is promoting a transition to digital products, including electronic navigational charts for ECDIS, as mandated by IMO for most Solas commercial ships, and for electronic chart systems for commercial and leisure vessels and workboats.
“Digital solutions offer significant safety and operational advantages to mariners, including the potential for near real-time updates, which greatly improve the accuracy of navigation and ease of use,” said UKHO.
“These benefits will be further enhanced as we bring forward the next generation of navigation solutions, underpinned by the S-100 data standards.”
The UKHO is developing a new generation of digital Admiralty services for all these maritime markets, along with supporting paper chart distribution.
“Listening and responding to our customers and partners is at the core of our approach and we are committed to ensuring no party is left behind in the digital transition,” said Mr Sparkes.
“We will be working with our international colleagues and partners, including through the IMO and the IHO, to move forward at an appropriate pace together.”
Sign up for Riviera’s series of technical and operational webinars and conferences in 2023:
© 2023 Riviera Maritime Media Ltd.