Examining the Marine Operating System in the Context of the National Airspace System

Ronald Braff and Wayne Young

Abstract:	There is a longstanding concept of adapting features of the National Airspace System (NAS) to marine tra.fIic regulation. Certain features in the system-wide management of air traffic outwardly appear capable of beneficial application to the marine operating environment. However, impor- tant operational and institutional distinctions between the two modes of transportation have constrained the system-wide application of air traflic management concepts to marine transporta- tion. An understanding of the similarities and differences in the operation of both modes is essential to any adaptation of NAS management concepts and technology to marine traffic regula- tion. Furthermore, rapid technological advances have greatly increased on-board navigation capa- bilities in both modes. There is pressure by the users in aviation to demand more self-management of their transits. Similarly, there is pressure by marine users for continuation of mostly self- managed transits. This situation could modi the traditional operating concepts in both modes and influence the applicability of NAS features to marine traffic regulation. This paper discusses the marine operating system as it applies to the navi- gation and piloting of commercial ships and towing industry vessels in harbors, connecting channels, and coastal approaches (analogous to airline operations in a terminal area). Sixteen prominent NAS features provide the framework for this analysis. The discussion addresses gover- nance, navigation and maneuvering capabilities, rules and procedures, traffic regulation, profes- sional qualifications, and supporting activities. The conclusion assesses the potential applicability of NAS concepts to the marine operating environ- ment.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 53rd Annual Meeting of The Institute of Navigation (1997) June 30 - 2, 1997 Albuquerque, NM
Pages:	555 - 572
Cite this article:	Braff, Ronald, Young, Wayne, "Examining the Marine Operating System in the Context of the National Airspace System," Proceedings of the 53rd Annual Meeting of The Institute of Navigation (1997), Albuquerque, NM, June 1997, pp. 555-572.
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