Inquest hears pilot died after fall into Humber while guiding vessel

Pilot transfer operations serving north Lincolnshire ports have come under focus after evidence at an inquest examined the risks involved in boarding large vessels on the Humber. The hearing relates to the death of a maritime pilot during a transfer to the cargo vessel Finnhawk on 8 January 2023. While the inquest is being held outside Lincolnshire, the evidence has drawn attention to pilotage connected to ports including Immingham and Grimsby, where shipping remains important to the local economy. Jurors heard the pilot was employed by Associated British Ports and had worked there since 2002. At the time of the incident, he had been on board the Humber Saturn with a trainee pilot, a coxswain and two other crew members before going to assist the Finnhawk at about 1pm. The court heard the transfer took place in a demanding environment shaped by tides, sandbanks, vessel movements and changing weather. Marine pilots are responsible for helping ships navigate busy waterways, using local knowledge of channels, port approaches and conditions on the river and estuary. For businesses and communities linked to Immingham and Grimsby, the case has highlighted the importance of that work. The Humber supports a high volume of commercial traffic, and pilotage is a central part of keeping ship movements organised. Evidence presented during the hearing focused on the moments surrounding the fall into the water during the transfer operation. The proceedings also explored the wider practical challenges involved in moving pilots between vessels safely in changing conditions. The inquest has drawn interest in Lincolnshire because of the close connections between the Humber's shipping activity and north Lincolnshire's port economy. Immingham is one of the UK's busiest ports, while Grimsby also plays a significant role in regional trade and industry. Pilot transfers are a routine part of port operations, but they require close co-ordination between vessel crews and specialist marine staff. Conditions on the Humber can change quickly, making transfers particularly sensitive to timing, sea state and vessel position. The hearing is expected to last five days, with further evidence still to be considered. Any conclusions may add to understanding of the risks associated with marine transfer operations affecting shipping linked to north Lincolnshire. Although the case centres on a fatal incident on the Humber, its relevance for Lincolnshire lies in the dependence of local ports on safe and efficient navigation. Issues affecting pilotage, vessel access and maritime safety remain significant for the industries and jobs supported by port activity in Immingham, Grimsby and surrounding areas.