Posted:
September 2, 2010
The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center has issued a notice reminding mariners operating a vessel equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) that they should confirm the proper channel frequency has been selected. The standard default AIS frequency is 161.975 MHz (AIS1 or channel 87B). The alternate AIS frequency is 162.025 MHz (AIS2 or channel 88B). These frequencies can be verified through the operation or owner's manual for the installed AIS.
Following an inadvertent tele-command to vessels from lower Connecticut to North Carolina to switch from the default frequency, the Coast Guard will broadcast new channel management messages that will tele-command all AIS users back to default channels. AIS users are encouraged to be aware that some vessels may not be seen by others as a result of the mistaken command. All AIS users should also maintain their AIS in effective operating condition and validate AIS data prior to each voyage and as needed.
The complete safety alert is available online.
Coast Guard safety alert: confirm proper AIS channel frequency
The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center has issued a notice reminding mariners operating a vessel equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) that they should confirm the proper channel frequency has been selected. The standard default AIS frequency is 161.975 MHz (AIS1 or channel 87B). The alternate AIS frequency is 162.025 MHz (AIS2 or channel 88B). These frequencies can be verified through the operation or owner's manual for the installed AIS.
Following an inadvertent tele-command to vessels from lower Connecticut to North Carolina to switch from the default frequency, the Coast Guard will broadcast new channel management messages that will tele-command all AIS users back to default channels. AIS users are encouraged to be aware that some vessels may not be seen by others as a result of the mistaken command. All AIS users should also maintain their AIS in effective operating condition and validate AIS data prior to each voyage and as needed.
The complete safety alert is available online.