ARHC and PAME Issue Joint Advisory Warning of Navigational Risks in a Rapidly Changing Arctic

This 2026 advisory serves as a critical update to the original cautionary note issued by the ARHC in 2017. The updated note reflects significant shifts in the region, specifically addressing the challenges posed by a rapidly changing Arctic, the emergence of new maritime routes, and a steady increase in vessel traffic.

Navigating Technical and Environmental Challenges

While the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has authorized the use of S-100 capable Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) starting in 2026, and vessels may increasingly rely on products and services built on IHO S-100 Standards, the note stresses that technology alone cannot eliminate risk.

Key highlights of the advisory include:

• Data Limitations: Despite advancements in surveying, substantial areas of the Arctic still lack modern hydrographic data;
• Reliability Gaps: Predictability of ice coverage and digital communication challenges continue to limit the reliability of even state-of-the-art Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs);
• Safety Standards: The note emphasizes adherence to the Polar Code and the STCW Convention to ensure crews are properly trained for hazard-prone polar environments; and
• Voyage Planning: Mariners are urged to conduct extensive planning, including reviewing emergency procedures and assessing survival equipment before entering Arctic waters.

"The Arctic remains a complex and potentially dangerous area," the advisory notes. To assist in improving regional safety, mariners are explicitly encouraged to promptly report any uncharted dangers or chart discrepancies to national hydrographic offices.

Full statement can be found here: https://iho.int/en/arctic-region-hc

About ARHC - The Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission (ARHC) is an international body established to improve the safety and efficiency of maritime navigation in the Arctic. As the regional hydrographic commission for the Arctic recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), the ARHC functions as a specialized group of hydrographic experts from IHO Member States to improve Arctic regional co-ordination, enhance exchange of information, and foster training and technical assistance.

About PAME - The Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment (PAME) is one of six working groups of the Arctic Council, the leading intergovernmental forum promoting cooperation, coordination, and interaction among the Arctic States, Arctic Indigenous Peoples, and other Arctic inhabitants on common Arctic issues. PAME serves as the primary Arctic Council working group responsible for policy-related initiatives focused on the conservation and sustainable use of the Arctic marine environment.

About IHO - The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is an intergovernmental organization whose primary aim is to ensure that all the world's seas, oceans and navigable waters are surveyed and charted. The IHO S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model provides the framework underpinning next-generation electronic navigational products and services, including those referenced in this advisory.

Media Contact:

Sarah Jones Couture

IHO Public Relations & Communication Officer

prco@iho.int