New Spirit ferries not using autopilot near Geelong after steering faults
The operator of the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries has suspended the use of autopilot during transits of Port Phillip Bay as a probe into the ships' steering faults continues.
Two Spirit of Tasmania ferries have recently experienced steering faults near Geelong, leading the operator, TT-Line, to suspend autopilot usage while transiting Port Phillip Bay. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is currently investigating the incidents, with a report due by mid-next year. Spirit IV encountered a primary steering system failure while transitioning from autopilot to manual mode as it approached the bay en route to Geelong.
The backup steering system, along with a tugboat escort, allowed the ferry to reach Geelong approximately four hours later than scheduled. This incident follows a separate steering fault that caused Spirit V to deviate from the bay's designated shipping lane during a trial voyage in October. TT-Line Chairman Ken Kanofski described the minor issue with Spirit IV's steering console as "frustratingly minor" and announced that it has been resolved.
The autopilot, which automatically follows a predetermined route, will no longer be used when approaching and departing Geelong. However, it will continue to be employed in the open waters of Bass Strait. Kanofski emphasized that the safety of both the ships and passengers remains their top priority and mentioned that interim measures have been taken to ensure safety.
TT-Line has since conducted a routine equipment check on Spirit IV off Devonport, aiming to maintain the vessel at the highest level of safety.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
