Chris Hoyle, Chairman of the UK Maritime Pilots’ Association (UKMPA), doesn’t mince words: the maritime industry is still grappling with systemic risks in pilot transfers, and the clock is ticking. With the IMO’s SOLAS V/23 compliance deadline looming in 2028, Hoyle calls for decisive action—not just reactive fixes. The stakes? Lives, operational efficiency, and the integrity of global trade.
The Hard Truth About Pilot Transfers
Hoyle’s message is clear: pilot transfers remain a critical weak point in maritime safety. Worn ladders, counterfeit certifications, and poorly secured equipment are still commonplace. These aren’t just paperwork issues—they’re ticking time bombs. Pilots, he argues, are often left to navigate subpar conditions because shipowners and managers cut corners. The result? A patchwork of risks that put lives on the line.
The UKMPA Ladder Reporting App has become a game-changer, allowing pilots to flag unsafe conditions in real time. But Hoyle stresses that technology alone isn’t the answer. It’s the mindset. “Safety should always be forward-looking, not reactive,” he says. That means proactive enforcement, early adoption of standards, and practical support for pilots.
The 2028 Deadline: Too Far, Too Slow?
Hoyle acknowledges that the 2028 SOLAS enforcement deadline reflects the complexities of global adoption. But he’s blunt: “There’s no reason not to adopt best practice early.” Waiting for regulation is a gamble—not just on compliance, but on human lives. Early compliance, he argues, reduces risk, protects crews, and sets a benchmark for continuous improvement.
Collaboration: The Missing Link
Hoyle’s wish list for regulators, operators, and authorities is straightforward: decisive action. But he’s clear-eyed about the challenges. “Too often, industry consultations are broad or unfocused, diluting their practical impact,” he says. The solution? Targeted engagement with those who design, operate, and manage ships. Pilots, after all, are among the most experienced professionals in port operations. Their insights are invaluable—but only if the industry listens.
The Future: Digital, Proactive, and Uncompromising
Hoyle sees digitisation as a force multiplier for safety. The UKMPA’s interactive poster, for example, transforms complex SOLAS requirements into practical, visual guidance. But he’s not stopping there. Emerging technologies like digital simulations and predictive analytics could revolutionise risk management, anticipating hazards before they materialise.
Yet, for all the tech, Hoyle’s focus remains on the human element. Pilots face physical and mental strain, from whole-body vibration to fatigue. Adequate recovery time, robust equipment, and operational support are non-negotiable. “Maritime pilots are critical to national infrastructure, logistics, and trade,” he says. “Protecting them safeguards the entire supply chain.”
The Bottom Line
Hoyle’s message is a wake-up call. The industry can’t afford to wait for 2028. It needs to act now—with urgency, collaboration, and a relentless focus on safety. Because in maritime pilotage, complacency isn’t an option. It’s a risk no one can afford to take.