ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the line of legal questions posed by the introduction of remotely controlled ship operations. However, until this fully autonomous stage is reached, the human element will remain actively involved throughout the whole field of MASS. However, until this fully autonomous stage is reached, the human element will remain actively involved throughout the whole field of MASS. The manifestations of the human element on MASS spark a wide range of legal issues from the point of view of regulation. Similar definitions of the term “seafarer” are adopted in domestic shipping legislation. In the UK, for example, a seafarer is described as “every person employed or engaged in any capacity on board any ship”. Finally, a wide use of MASS controlled by remote operators will have the potential to challenge traditional approaches to maritime liability. One option would be for them to obtain the legal status of shore-based employees.
