Difficulties and Threats Related to Vessel Traffic Planning on the Świnoujście–Szczecin Fairway

Purpose: Commissioning of the dredged Świnoujście–Szczecin fairway in Poland dealt with the changes in two-way vessel traffic regulations. Currently larger vessels then before can enter the fairway and may pass each other at the designated passing places. These changes caused challenges for Vessel Traffic Services operators (VTSOs) who make decisions on safe vessel traffic planning within the fairway. The aim of the presented study was to analyze the opinions of VTSOs on the difficulties and threats impacting decision-making process related to vessel traffic planning on the dredged Świnoujście–Szczecin fairway. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research was carried out using marketing research method. Difficulties and threats related to vessel traffic planning within the fairway were identified. A questionnaire survey was carried out among VTSOs working in Vessel Traffic Services centers in Szczecin and Świnoujście. The achieved results were analyzed and compared to outcomes of survey carried out in 2022. Findings: Research results analysis revealed that VTSOs consider the accuracy of weather forecasts, variability of input data for ship traffic planning, as well as variable weather conditions as the most significant difficulties during vessel traffic planning. According to practitioners, the major threats were related to failure of VHF communication and software, as well as delays in vessel maneuvers. Practical Implications: The research results may be interesting to VTSOs, pilots, employee of seaports authorities and other entities involved in the planning and organization of vessel traffic on waterways. Originality/Value: Difficulties and threats impacting decision-making process related to vessel traffic planning on the dredged Świnoujście–Szczecin fairway were analysed. The research results fill in the gap on aspects impacting planning safe navigation of ships within considered fairway. Recommendations to reduce the impact of selected difficulties and threats on decision-making process related to vessel traffic planning carried out by VTSOs were proposed.