Dana S. Merkel, Alan M. Weigel, and Vanessa C. DiDomenico ●
The International Maritime Organization (“IMO”) formally adopted the International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (“MASS Code” or the “Code”) on May 22, 2026, marking a significant regulatory milestone for autonomous shipping. Adopted at the conclusion of the 111th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111), the Code establishes a goal-based framework to govern the design and operation of remotely controlled and fully autonomous commercial vessels. The Code took effect on July 1, 2026.
The U.S. Coast Guard (“USCG”) also released guidance with respect to remotely controlled and autonomous vessels recently. Issued in the form of a Work Instruction, the policy provides guidance to USCG units and industry on approval and oversight of unmanned vessels.
An International Framework Built on Safety, Security, and Environmental Protection
The MASS Code sets out to ensure that remotely operated and autonomous vessels meet the same standards of safety, security, and environmental protection expected of conventional vessels. Ships falling under the Code must also comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (“SOLAS”) and other applicable mandatory IMO instruments. In its current form, the Code applies exclusively to cargo ships and, at this stage, is non-mandatory, giving IMO Member States the opportunity to test its application while laying the groundwork for a future binding instrument.
Continue reading “The IMO Adopts the First Global Code for Autonomous Ships”