The Communication, Traffic Management and Navigation System (CTAN) became fully operational on January 30, 2000. Its use will increase Canal safety and efficiency. This state-of-the-art system is based on Global Positioning System technology (GPS), and it is part of the Enhanced Vessel Traffic Management System (EVTMS), that will put the Panama Canal at the forefront of maritime traffic administration.
Panama Canal Authority Training and Maritime Development Section manager Capt. Orlando Allard said, "The traffic and information navigation system is similar to those used in certain countries, the Automatic Identification System (AIS), but specifically designed for the Panama Canal. The combination of the monitoring system and the optimization of resource allocation will bring even greater benefits. It is an excellent information system both for pilots and for traffic administration personnel".
Canal pilots carry portable boxes that contain a monitor and other electronic equipment onboard transiting vessels. The equipment identifies the vessel's location and sends it via radio to a central computer at the Maritime Traffic Control Center. At the center, the information of all vessels, Canal launches and towboats is integrated. This information is sent out again to the vessel, allowing the pilot to view on his monitor an updated map of the position of all transiting vessels and Canal support equipment. Pilots can also check for the vessel's speed, the distance to the banks, to other vessels, or to the locks. In addition, pilots can easily find out the time and meeting point with other vessels.
The information pilots receive is also available to Maritime Traffic Control Center controllers, as well as officials from different support units.
Pilots and towboat captains in training were trained to be CTAN instructors, and they recently trained the rest of the pilots. Besides classrooms, they also used the training vessel Atlas for the sessions.
"The system became fully operational on January
30," said Allard. He added, "What we did was to offer a refreshment
course on the system to all pilots and towboat captains, as well as marine
traffic controllers. Until now the training had been mostly theoretical,
but it was finally done on board vessels so pilots could better appreciate
the installation process and its real use."
The final implementation of the Enhanced Vessel Traffic Management System (EVTMS) combined with the Communication, Traffic Management and Navigation System (CTAN) will assist the pilot with his functions. This will allow the optimization in the use of Panama Canal Authority resources, which will result in an even safer and more efficient operation of the waterway.
