On December 10, two maritime pilots tragically lost their lives after their vessel capsized and sank at Sea.
What happened?
A Finnpilot Pilotage vessel ‘L242’ reportedly capsized and sank near Emäsalo island in Finland claiming the lives of two maritime pilots.
The pilot cutter operators were employed by Finnpilot and deployed onboard the vessel when it tragically overturned outside of Emäsalo island near the northern pilot boarding position. The Finnish Border Guard’s frantic efforts to stabilize the vessel failed and it sank.
Statement released:
Kari Kosonen, CEO at maritime safety organisation Finnpilot, said: “This is a truly devastating day for Finnpilot. We are working with the authorities to determine the causes of this tragic accident in order to ensure the safety of our employees in the future. Procedures to that end are already underway”.
Salvage plans underway:
The divers recovered the bodies of pilot cutters from the sunken vessel and have planned to salvage the vessel which is currently at the bottom of the Sea.
Together, Finnpilot and the Safety Investigation Authority (OTKES) are making plans to salvage the sunken pilot vessel within the next two weeks since the weather conditions are unfavourable. The salvage operation will be undertaken by OTKES. Environmental safety during the salvage will be overseen by the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE).
Aki Marjasvaara, transport director at Finnpilot said, “The raising of the vessel under the current weather conditions and from such a depth is challenging and we will take no risks”.
Investigation initiated:
An investigation has been initiated by the Emäsalo pilot station and they have compiled a preliminary report about the events leading to the accident. The cause of the vessel sinking remains unknown and OTKES will handle any inquiries regarding the accident investigation and related matters.
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Source: Finnpilot
