CMA launches navigation app to safeguard ocean-going vessels

China Meteorological Administration has recently launched an offshore service platform to expand the scope of meteorological navigation services and further safeguard ocean-going vessels. The platform offers users data including real-time access to global basic meteorological monitoring, port weather forecasts and disaster warnings

The mobile app of the platform provides smart and precise information such as vessel departures, arrivals and speed anomalies, according to CMA.

Captains can customize global marine meteorological data for any region through an onboard self-navigation system under the platform to achieve automated navigation services between ship and shore. Currently, this system is effective on over 200 offshore vessels.

The platform also includes a section for professional departments on the shore, which integrates intelligent algorithms for route planning and carbon emission assessments. It can simultaneously support services for over 1,000 vessels, it said.

The ocean-going meteorological navigation team, established in July last year, can tailor the optimal route based on different ship types and loading conditions before the vessel sets out. During navigation, they can provide daily services, including weather forecasts on route and evaluation reports on ship performance, the administration said.

The team is capable of offering weather alerts and recommending alternative routes to avoid risks in severe weather or unexpected incidents, it added.

Since the team started its services in July last year, it has supported more than 20,000 voyages. As of Aug 22, relevant services have saved shipping companies 33,264 nautical miles in distance, reduced carbon emissions by 9,035 metric tons and achieved rental savings of up to $38,000 on a single voyage, according to CMA.

Li Ren contributed to this story.