US investigators call for autonomous vessel rules after Lake Erie collision (opens in a new tab)
The NTSB recommended new U.S. safety standards for uncrewed vessels after a 2024 collision in Lake Erie between a NOAA autonomous research craft and a recreational yacht. The low visibility and passive remote monitoring of the uncrewed vessel contributed to the incident, causing significant damage and minor injuries. Investigators found no existing industry-wide regulations for detectability, collision avoidance, or navigational safety of such vessels. The NTSB urged the U.S. Coast Guard to create a national regulatory framework to address these gaps.