Pilotage

Pilotage refers to the act, skill, or process of guiding a ship or aircraft through difficult or dangerous waters or airspace, typically by a licensed pilot. It involves providing specialized navigational assistance, often including detailed knowledge of local conditions such as currents, tides, channels, and hazards. The pilot, acting as an expert advisor to the captain, ensures safe passage, preventing collisions and groundings. The term can also encompass the fees charged for such services, and the area or district in which pilots are licensed.

Pilotage meaning with examples

• The captain requested pilotage services to navigate the treacherous straits, known for strong currents and unpredictable weather. A skilled pilot's guidance was crucial for ensuring the cargo ship's safe passage through the confined waterways, mitigating potential risks during the transit and helping avoid accidents.
• Due to the dense fog, the airplane relied on instrument pilotage systems for approach and landing, utilizing the airport's navigational aids. The pilot meticulously followed the instrument panel’s instructions, making precise adjustments to keep the aircraft on course.
• Coastal authorities maintained a register of licensed pilots who specialize in intricate pilotage within specific port areas and approaches. Only those pilots are authorized and allowed to navigate ships across those very risky stretches.
• The cost of pilotage in this busy harbor is quite high, but considered an essential investment for safe and timely ship movements. The pilotage fees covered the expertise and experience to manage a vessel in constrained areas.
• The new harbour had a brand new pilotage system installed with updated radar and navigational charts to improve navigational accuracy and safety, making the process easier and efficient for all ships.