Implementing operational envelopes for improved resilience of autonomous maritime transport

A promising potential commonly associated with autonomous ferries is the realization of low- or unmanned passenger transport. With the ability to provide flexible around the clock services, it can provide new and better mobility solutions for coastal cities around the world, and for cities located along rivers and inland waterways. However, operating an autonomous passenger ferry require that safety functions, today being handled by trained onboard safety crew, are maintained and approved according to current rules and regulations. Since few concrete suggestions so far have been published on how to solve this issue, new safety solutions must be developed, including new technology, processes and operational concepts. This lack of studies and work for developing automated and autonomous safety solutions stands in contrast to – up until now – the strong industry focus on developing systems and solutions enabling safe navigation. As a response, this paper suggests the implementation of operational envelopes for improved safety and resilience of autonomous shipping and ferry operations.