During the recent collision between a cargo vessel and Baltimore's Key Bridge, it was revealed that there were no tugs accompanying the vessel at the time of the incident. This information was confirmed by National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy, who stated that the absence of tugs was actually in line with normal protocol.
According to NTSB investigator Marcel Muise, the pilot of the vessel had made a VHF radio call at 01:26:39 on Tuesday, requesting tugs in the vicinity to assist. Tugs typically play a crucial role in helping vessels navigate out of the dock, depart the port, and enter the main ship channel. Once the vessel is on its designated course through the channel, the tugs are no longer required and they depart.
In this particular case, the cargo vessel was making its way through the channel unaccompanied by any tugs, which prompted the pilot to call for assistance. The purpose of the tugs is to ensure a safe and smooth transition for the vessel from the port to the main shipping route.
It is essential for vessels to have proper assistance during critical maneuvers such as leaving the port and entering the main channel to avoid potential accidents or collisions. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following established protocols and safety procedures in maritime operations to prevent such mishaps.
