IMO Adopts MASS Code: A Landmark Shift in International Regulation for Autonomous and AI-Enabled Ships

LONDON – The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has officially adopted the new International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code) during its 111th session, held from 13 to 22 May 2026. This establishes the first international regulatory framework addressing the design, approval, and operation of commercial ships utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and remote operation technologies.

The new Code applies to cargo ships and will take effect on 1 July 2026. Initially introduced as a non-mandatory instrument, it allows Member States to test its practical application and accumulate operational experience before the IMO introduces mandatory amendments under the SOLAS Convention.

Goal-Based Framework and the Central Role of Human Oversight

Under the IMO framework, a ship is considered autonomous if its onboard technology is designed and verified to control actions without human intervention. Departing from traditional prescriptive regulations, the MASS Code utilizes a "goal-based" approach. This ensures that autonomous and remotely controlled vessels achieve levels of safety, security, and environmental protection equivalent to conventional ships without restricting technological innovation.

Key focus areas of the Code include:

• Rigorous risk assessments and robust hardware system design.
• Strict cybersecurity standards and continuous data connectivity.
• Procedures for the establishment and operation of Remote Operations Centres (ROCs).

Crucially, human accountability remains the foundation of this framework. The master retains ultimate responsibility for the ship’s safety at all times, even when operating from a remote location off the vessel.

Timeline for Mandatory Implementation

• December 2026 (MSC 112): Re-establishment of the MASS Working Group to develop the Experience-Building Phase (EBP) framework.
• 2028: Development of the mandatory MASS Code based on EBP outcomes and sub-committee reviews, alongside proposed SOLAS amendments.
• By 1 July 2030: Expected adoption of the first mandatory MASS Code.
• 1 January 2032: Entry into force of the mandatory MASS Code globally.

Key Decisions from MSC 111

In addition to the MASS Code, the Committee approved several key resolutions and amendments addressing pressing maritime challenges:

1. Safety Guidelines for Alternative Fuels

To support the maritime decarbonization transition, the Committee approved Interim Guidelines for the safety of ships using ammonia as cargo fuel. Furthermore, two sets of interim guidelines for seafarer training were approved:

• Interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel.
• Interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using ammonia as fuel.

The Committee also clarified the application of the "one ship, one code" principle for gas carriers utilizing alternative fuels, streamlining compliance regarding whether the IGF Code or IGC Code applies.

2. Free Ship-Tracking Data (LRIT) for Coastal States

The MSC approved amendments to the SOLAS Convention regarding the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system. These amendments will allow coastal States to receive standard ship position reports free of charge, eliminating financial barriers and improving maritime domain awareness, search and rescue operations, and marine pollution response. The amendments will face final adoption at MSC 112 in December.

3. Upgrading Maritime Communications via VDES

The Committee adopted a resolution to integrate the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) into the regulatory framework as a more secure, high-capacity alternative to the current AIS system. VDES incorporates authentication protocols to significantly reduce the risk of signal spoofing. The new regulations are slated to enter into force on 1 January 2028.

4. Conflict Resolution in the Strait of Hormuz

A resolution was adopted urging Member States to support the Secretary-General’s efforts to facilitate the safe evacuation of ships and seafarers trapped in the Persian Gulf, emphasizing the provision of essential supplies and the facilitation of crew changes.

Commentary: Impact on the Global Shipping Industry

The adoption of the MASS Code introduces fundamental shifts in maritime operations, legal accountability, and logistics:

• Safety Management Systems (SMS): Shifting control to ROCs requires ship managers to fundamentally overhaul SMS under the ISM Code, making AI reliability and cyber-risk audits mandatory for port clearance.
• Workforce Evolution: Remote masters and green fuels demand a new generation of seafarers skilled in data management and IT crisis response alongside traditional navigation.
• Coastal Monitoring: Cost-free LRIT data empowers developing coastal nations to monitor territorial waters, though technological disparity during the transitional phase (2026–2030) will require targeted IMO support.

Source: IMO