{
  "id": 16591166,
  "title": "Pilot transfer operation: A safer step aboard",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/pilot-transfer-operation-a-safer-step-aboard",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-26T11:00:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Hellenic Shipping News",
    "slug": "hellenic-shipping-news",
    "url": "https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/pilot-transfer-operation-a-safer-step-aboard/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Safe pilot transfer operations rely on correct procedures and equipment that meets appropriate standards. New SOLAS requirements, which come into effect in 2028, will mandate performance standards for pilot transfer arrangements. To prepare for these changes, ship operators should conduct a comprehensive review of their current arrangements. Pilot ladders have often been a safety concern, with safety campaigns by the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) highlighting non-compliant setups. In 2026, IMPA observed 4,051 issues from pilots in 34 countries, with 13% of these identified as non-compliant. Over half of these issues involved pilot ladders, along with other areas such as deck access and safety equipment. Defects include improperly rigged retrieval lines, inadequately secured ladders, and missing lifebuoys. Port State control findings reveal a similar pattern, with deficiencies increasing in frequency from 2020 to 2024. Incidents involving pilot transfer arrangements have led to fatalities and serious injuries, highlighting the risks not only to pilots but also to crew members involved in preparing and rigging these arrangements. In one case, a pilot fell approximately three meters onto a boat, suffering a fractured ankle due to an unsafe stanchion design. Similarly, a bosun died after falling overboard while preparing a pilot ladder. The new SOLAS Regulation V/23, adopted by the IMO in June 2025, introduces mandatory performance standards for pilot transfer arrangements, which become effective on January 1, 2028. Existing installations must comply by their first survey after these dates. Ship operators need to assess their current arrangements against these new requirements and plan any necessary modifications, which may involve strengthening, marking, or documenting changes. Detailed provisions cover the design, installation, maintenance, and safe use of these arrangements. Ship operators should begin their preparations now to ensure compliance and enhance safety.",
  "summary": "Safe pilot transfer operations depend on both correct procedures and fit-for-purpose equipment. New SOLAS requirements entering into force in 2028 will introduce mandatory performance standards for pilot transfer arrangements, and some existing installations may require physical modifications. Ship operators should start a fleet-wide review of their arrangements now. Pilot ladders remain a…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}