What is AIS and why is it helpful for collision avoidance?

• A. Automatic Identification System; amplifies vessel's top speed.
• B. A marketing system for port authorities.
• C. A navigation program that predicts weather.
• D. Automatic Identification System; provides other vessels' identity, course, and speed, aiding situational awareness and risk assessment.

Answer: (D)

AIS stands for Automatic Identification System. It broadcasts a vessel’s identity and navigational data, including position, course, speed, and other details, to nearby ships and shore authorities over VHF. This creates a shared picture of who is around and where they’re headed, which is essential for collision avoidance. With AIS, you can assess the risk of meeting another vessel, estimate the time to the closest point of approach, and decide on safe actions well before a maneuver is required. It also helps other vessels see you, increasing overall traffic awareness and supporting compliance with COLREGS in busy or low-visibility situations. It’s not about increasing speed, not a marketing system, and not a weather-predicting program.