Support systems for pilotage, past and future.

Pilots and navigators have through history used everything available to support them in the execution of their task. From the simple sounding means (for instance a stick or a line with a heavy object tied to it) to the advanced electronic support systems that are available today. This means that apart from the more traditional side of his set of tasks the influence of modern technology is felt. In general it concerns such diverse and complex subjects that it requires the pilot to remain up to date with regard to the most modern techniques. In a sense this also concurs with the change form a provider of (local) knowledge to that of a manager of a high risk operation. More information flows can reach the pilot on the place where he executes his profession. With marginal scope the pilot has to translate such information to the situation in which he finds himself in order to give a balanced advice. Knowledge of the surroundings, variable circumstances in his specific area but also language and culture play a crucial role. This paper touches on the history of pilot support systems and examines the developments of pilot support systems in the present day operating environment and addresses the implications. These range from the historic basic needs for pilot information to the present and future possibilities, supporting the pilot to make the most precise assessment at each operational stage to continually execute a safe journey in and out of port.