Pilot fatality on Humber Estuary highlights safety concerns in boarding practices
MAIB report identifies critical issues in equipment, training, and medical certification
Last updated 22nd Jan 2026
The Maritime Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has issued its report, after the death of a Humber pilot on 8th January 2023, while attempting to board the cargo vessel Finnhawk from the pilot vessel Humber Saturn, in the approach to the Humber Estuary.
The pilot fell from the ladder, likely due to a cardiac event, hitting Humber Saturn’s deck before falling into the water. He was swiftly recovered onto the vessel’s semi-submerged man overboard recovery platform, which was defective and could not be raised. This left the pilot semi-immersed in cold water for over 40 minutes until he was evacuated via lifeboat and transported to hospital by coastguard helicopter, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The report identified several key safety issues:
The pilot’s medical certificate, issued six months before the incident, incorrectly assessed him as fully fit for duty despite multiple chronic health conditions that could impair his ability to perform the role.
Defects in the Humber Saturn’s man overboard recovery platform likely prevented it from functioning correctly, delaying recovery and reducing the pilot’s chances of survival.
The port authority’s ‘stop work’ procedure failed to prevent the pilot from working on the day of the incident, despite colleagues’ concerns regarding his fitness for duty.
The port authority had not conducted a risk assessment to define the physical capabilities required for marine pilots, leaving occupational standards unclear.
The MAIB issued safety recommendations aimed at improving pilot survivability during cold-water emergencies and addressing deficiencies in training, equipment maintenance, and the oversight of medical fitness. Recommendations include:
Guidance from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency for non-SOLAS vessels to carry alternate means for unconscious-person recovery.
Updates by Associated British Ports to personal protective equipment (PPE) and alignment of pilot safety training with industry best practices.
Advice from port industry bodies on defining occupational standards for pilots and enhancing PPE to improve survivability in cold water.
Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Andrew Moll OBE, said: “Pilot transfers are challenging and potentially hazardous, and fortunately, most are conducted without incident. Tragically, however, on 8 January 2023 this was not the case, and a respected and experienced marine pilot lost his life.
"While superficially this was a simple accident, our investigation identified safety concerns across training, equipment, medical standards, and emergency response.
“I strongly urge all harbour authorities with pilotage services to learn from this accident and take action to prevent future incidents.”
MAIB hopes the report, along with its recommendations, will lead to greater safety improvements across the port industry, reducing risks faced by marine pilots during challenging boarding operations.