Expert Analyzes Causes of Baltimore Bridge Collapse
Details are still emerging about the event that took place in the early morning hours of March 26, 2024, involving the Dali, a large cargo ship departing from the port of Baltimore, which struck a major bridge, resulting in its collapse.
Naomi Schalit, senior editor for politics and democracy at The Conversation, interviewed Captain Allan Post, an experienced ship’s officer, regarding the responsibilities of a ship pilot in maneuvering a large vessel in and out of a harbor.
When you first learned about the accident, what was your initial reaction?
Post: Initially, I felt grateful that the incident occurred at night when there was minimal traffic on the bridge. If it had happened during the day, the casualties could have been in the thousands. My heart goes out to those who lost their lives.
The ship had two pilots on board as it departed from the Port of Baltimore. Can you explain the role of ship pilots?
Post: Ship pilots are typically enlisted in areas with restricted maneuverability or navigation.
They are local experts certified by state or federal authorities to advise the vessel’s master on safely navigating through pilotage waters, such as along the river from the Port of Baltimore.
Pilots possess advanced expertise in maneuvering in tight areas, especially when utilizing tugboats and docking the vessel at its assigned berth.
No, a pilot doesn’t assume control of the ship. They serve as advisors to the captain, also known as the “master,” who retains full responsibility for safe navigation.
Ship Piloting Protocol
Typically, the pilot meets the ship either at sea or at the dock if it’s departing from port. After exchanging greetings and sometimes receiving ship-related items like hats or coffee, they set up their equipment, often plugging into the ship’s electronic chart system.
Following this, they conduct a pilot exchange with the ship’s master, discussing the ship’s destination, characteristics, crew, and air draft (height above water). Once this briefing is complete, the pilot guides the officer of the watch or the captain on navigating the ship to its destination, whether it’s docking, undocking, or setting sail.
This guidance typically occurs during intricate maneuvers, not continuously. The pilot has the authority to decline operation if they perceive unsafe conditions or deem the vessel unfit for transit, particularly in foggy conditions.
Additionally, the ship pilot liaises with the Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service, communicates with other vessels in the vicinity, and coordinates with tugboats and line handlers to ensure safe navigation near piers or during departure from the berth.
Comprehensive Pilot Training
Regarding pilot training, most individuals start at a maritime academy and gain extensive experience at sea in various roles before entering a pilot apprentice program, which lasts for several years. These programs involve simulator training and hands-on experience to familiarize pilots with different ships, currents, tides, and channels along their routes.
Becoming a pilot requires significant time and dedication, often spanning more than a decade of training and experience.
A pilot’s credentials may not be transferable to another area, as they undergo extensive training under the mentorship of senior pilots. During this time, they learn essential information about local waterways, navigation, currents, tides, and berth locations.
They become highly proficient in these skills. When they eventually undergo the pilotage exam, they must sketch the charts utilized in the pilotage waters solely from memory.
Are there legal requirements for ship pilots to be present during entry and exit from these restricted areas?
Post: Yes, they are – as per state law, federal law, or both.
Is this vessel considered large, small, or medium-sized?
Post: That’s pretty standard nowadays. Ship sizes have grown significantly over time. A length of 1,000 feet is fairly typical.
How long has ship piloting been practiced?
Post: It’s been a practice for almost as long as humans have been using the sea for trade. Historically, captains would enlist locals with knowledge of specific ports. In the United States, for instance, the Sandy Hook Pilots Association has been guiding ships in and out of New York Harbor for around three centuries.
Was the incident in Baltimore a nightmare scenario for every captain, pilot, and crew?
Post: Absolutely. My initial assumption is that it likely resulted from a critical electrical malfunction on the ship, with disastrous timing.
Read the original article on: Science Alert
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