Merchant Shipping Code Amended to Enable Autonomous Vessel Operations
Amendments to the Merchant Shipping Code concerning the introduction of autonomous transport systems have been made as part of the implementation of the “2026–2028 Action Plan for Accelerating Digital Development in the Republic of Azerbaijan,” approved by the Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated February 27, 2026.
The amendments aim to improve the legal regulation of the use of autonomous vessels in the transport sector, harmonize sector-specific legislation, enhance the efficiency of public services, and establish the necessary regulatory, technological, and institutional framework in this area.
The law defines fundamental concepts for the legal regulation of the vessel operations, including “autonomous vessel,” “operator,” and “remote operations center.”
In addition, the legislation defines the levels of high and full automation, as well as the concepts of an autonomous vessel, its operator, a remote operations center, and an automated control system. It also sets out the relevant requirements and specifies the responsibilities of the operator and the vessel owner.
It should be noted that, under the law, an autonomous vessel will be permitted to operate only after being registered with the competent state authority and authorized for operation within an area designated by the competent state authority. Any legal entity or individual will be entitled to act as an operator responsible for the automated control system of an autonomous vessel upon obtaining the relevant certificate.
During operation, the operator will monitor the functioning of the automated control system, promptly intervene in the event of a hazard, ensure the storage and protection of data related to the operation of the vessel, and immediately notify the relevant state authorities in the event of an occurrence, accident, or incident.
The owner of an autonomous vessel or its operator (when acting as the owner) shall be liable for damage caused during the operation of the autonomous vessel. If it is proven that the damage was caused through the fault of the manufacturer of the autonomous vessel or its automated control system, a person providing technical maintenance for such system, or an operator engaged under a civil law contract, the owner or operator of the autonomous vessel may file a recourse claim against such persons in accordance with the requirements of the Civil Code. If it is proven that the damage was caused through the fault of an operator who is in an employment relationship with the owner or operator of the autonomous vessel, compensation shall be governed by the provisions of Chapters 30 and 32 of the Labour Code.