Vessel Tracking Using the Automatic Identification System (AIS) During Emergency Response: Lessons from the Deepwater Horizon Incident

What does the marine Automatic Identification System (AIS) vessel tracking mean for mariners at sea and operations staff on shore during emergency response operations? Real-time AIS and e-Navigation related technologies enable closer coordination between all involved parties. Recorded historical AIS data give insight into what occurred before, during, and after an incident. Historical AIS analysis facilitates planning for future situations by creating a baseline model of operational procedures, as they currently exist. Mariner and responder safety can be an issue from sudden and drastic alteration of ship traffic patterns caused by emergencies. By planning ahead, the community can mitigate these risks and improve the efficiency of the response at the same time. AIS has limitations for both real-time tracking and historical analysis that must be understood by all involved. However, when used appropriately, AIS is an effective emergency