PREVIEW: Maritime Safety Committee – 111th session (MSC 111), 13-22 May 2026 in International Shipping News 12/05/2026 The Maritime Safety Committee meets for its 111th session at IMO Headquarters in London (in-person supported with hybrid capabilities) from 13-22 May 2026. The meeting is chaired by Capt. Theofilos Mozas of Greece. MSC 111 highlights (including media arrangements) 1. Amendments to mandatory instruments and related non-mandatory instruments 2. Expected adoption of the goal-based International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code) 3. Impacts on shipping and seafarers of the situation in the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman, and the Gulf region, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz 4. Enhancing maritime security 5. Piracy and armed robbery against ships 6. Development of a GHG safety regulatory framework 7. Goal-based ship construction standards audit 8. Review of the financial architecture of the LRIT system 9. Maritime digitalization 10. Reports of Sub-Committees 11. Media attendance – information 1. Amendments to mandatory and related non-mandatory instruments The Committee is expected to consider, with a view to adoption, draft amendments to several mandatory instruments, with a planned entry into force date of 1 January 2028. These include draft amendments to: • SOLAS chapters IV and V – including updated provisions allowing the carriage of VHF data exchange system (VDES) onboard ships as an alternative to the automatic identification system (AIS), and new provisions clarifying the use of all operational recognized mobile satellite services for the dissemination of maritime safety information and search and rescue related information. Along with these amendments, the Committee is also expected to adopt new MSC resolutions on performance standards for VDES and on introduction of VDES into the IMO regulatory framework, a revision of resolution MSC.509(105)/Rev.1 on provision of radio services for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), and guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne VDES. • International code on the enhanced programme of inspections during surveys of bulk carriers and oil tankers, 2011 (2011 ESP Code) – including a new section related to Remote inspection techniques (RIT) and associated guidelines. • 1994 & 2000 HSC Codes, to include amendments on VHF data exchange system (VDES) consequential to the above-mentioned SOLAS amendments. • Amendments to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. • International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel (IP Code) – amendments related to subdivision and damage stability and life-saving appliances requirements, particularly for ships carrying more than 240 passengers/industrial personnel. shall be in accordance with SOLAS chapter II-1, where the ship is considered a passenger ship and industrial personnel are counted as passengers • International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code – clarifying the application provisions therein and arrangements to test the release system under load without launching the free-fall lifeboat into the water. • Amendments to update the Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear (resolution MSC.402(96)). • 1988 Load Lines Protocol annex B – updated requirements related to guard rails and bulwarks. Concerning related non-mandatory in