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Journal of the Union of Scientists - Varna. Maritime Sciences Series

Enhancing safety and efficiency in maritime drone operations: a comprehensive analysis of pilot pre-training

Todor Koritarov

Abstract

The increasing deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in maritime operations has highlighted the need for comprehensive pre-training for drone pilots to ensure the secure and effective integration of UAVs in the maritime domain. The objective of this study is to ascertain the prerequisites for pre-training for drone pilots operating in maritime contexts and to examine the potential benefits of incorporating innovative training methods to enhance learning outcomes and prepare pilots for the demands of real-world scenarios. The research underscores the paramount importance of technical proficiency, an awareness of maritime regulations and safety protocols, advanced capabilities in risk assessment, mission planning, and data analysis, in addition to adaptability, problem-solving, and communication skills. The results demonstrate that effective pre-training, which incorporates advanced techniques such as virtual reality simulations and scenario-based learning, can markedly enhance learning outcomes and more effectively prepare pilots for the intricacies associated with maritime drone operations. Furthermore, the study underscores the imperative for the establishment of standardized training programs tailored to the specific functions of maritime drones, the evaluation of the long-term efficacy of diverse training methodologies, and an inquiry into the prospective contribution of artificial intelligence and machine learning in enhancing pilot training and decision-making processes. By addressing these factors, the maritime sector can ensure that drone pilots possess the requisite skills and knowledge to effectively navigate the challenges of this evolving field, thereby contributing to safer and more efficient maritime operations.

Keywords

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Maritime operations, Pre-training, Pilot training, Risk assessment, Simulation, Virtual reality

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14748/isuvmn.v0i0.10200

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