Pilots can now detect an approaching vessel from 10 to 15 miles away using the built in AIS features in CEACT. AIS Targets are presented with the vessel name and speed details next to the target symbol. A simple two mouse click feature allows pilots to determine the Channel Closest Point of Approach area or CCPA of an approaching vessel. The CCPA feature can improve Channel Network Efficiency™ because pilots can negotiate slight changes in speed from miles away, instead of coming to a complete stop.

The image shows the down bound vessel at mile marker 721.3 on the Lower Mississippi. The selected AIS Target is located approximately 9 river miles away at mile marker 712.3. The Channel CPA area was automatically calculated by left clicking on the AIS Target and then left clicking the Track CPA button in the AIS Target Info menu. Just two clicks! The Channel CPA area is automatically updated based on the own ship speed and the reported speed from the selected AIS target.

For more detailed information on this and other procedures, please refer to our training link.