NEWSPaper charts to be withdrawn28/07/2022Save articleThe UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) is preparing to stop paper chart production by late 2026 to instead increase its focus on digital navigation products and services.SHOW FULLSCREENThe UKHO is planning on withdrawing from paper charts by 2026The organisation says its plans to withdraw Admiralty Standard Nautical Charts (SNCs) and Thematic Charts are in response to more marine, naval and leisure users primarily using digital products and services for navigation.The Admiralty Maritime Data Solutions digital navigation portfolio can be updated in near real-time, which the organisation says will enhance safety of life at sea (SOLAS).The phased withdrawal of paper charts from production will take place over a number of years and is anticipated to conclude in late 2026.In parallel, the UKHO will develop ‘viable, official digital alternatives’ for sectors still using paper chart products.“As we look to the future, our core purpose remains the safety of shipping operations and delivering the best possible navigation solutions to achieve that,” said Peter Sparkes, UKHO chief executive.“We understand the significance of this announcement, given the distinguished history of the UKHO’s paper chart production and the trust that mariners have placed in Admiralty charts over the generations.”And he said the move to digital navigation solutions has been accompanied by a rapid decline in demand for paper charts, driven by the SOLAS-mandated transition to ECDIS and the wider benefits of digital solutions, including the next generation of navigation services.

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