Finnish Transport Agency issues updated instructions for winter navigation
Finnish Transport Agency has issued updated instructions for winter navigation.
The instructions for winter navigation have been created in collaboration with the industry, shipping companies, charterers, vessels, icebreakers, pilots and vessel traffic services. In accordance with Finland’s maritime strategy 2014–2022, the objective of these instructions is to ensure smooth, economically viable and internationally competitive Finnish foreign trade and domestic waterborne transport with short waiting times during the winter season.
The new instructions can be found here.
The service number for winter navigation will be activated when the first assistance restrictions are imposed and the icebreakers begin operations. This number shall be used for issues concerning operations outside office hours. The number is +358 50 471 4850.
On 1 January 2019, the current Finnish Transport Agency will become the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency. This agency will be responsible for the state-owned road and railway network, for the waterways and their development, and for land use coordination.
From the beginning of next year, the Winter Navigation Unit will be part of the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency. The contact information will remain unchanged.
Traffic management functions, such as Vessel Traffic Services, will be incorporated. The state-owned special assignment company Traffic Management Finland Ltd will begin its operations at the beginning of next year. The incorporation will not affect the provision of Vessel Traffic Services.
