The SPU-100 is an essential tool for advanced pilotage across numerous ports. Following the recent Issuance of Advisory to Shipping No. A-32-2022, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has outlined a new positioning system.

Effective October 1, 2023, all vessels with a beam of 109 feet or more transiting the Panama Canal will be required to have a fixed (non-portable) piloting unit with Real Time Kinematics (RTK) for submeter accuracy. This measure is expected to improve the efficiency of the waterway by eliminating the delays associated with the installation of portable piloting units (PPU-RTK). 

The vessel will be responsible to procure, install, configure, and maintain the fixed piloting unit in proper condition. The unit shall be installed and powered to provide the required communication with the pilot´s tablet and the SafePilot’s software via wireless network, ensuring a stable and long-range connection in all conning positions during the transit through the Panama Canal. The specifications and installation guide for the fixed piloting unit are available through the SPU-100 Fixed Pilot Unit below. 

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