A serious accident involving a river pilot occurred off the coast of Vlissingen, raising concerns about maritime safety in the region. The river pilot, aged 66 and from Antwerp, was critically injured while attempting a pilot transfer on full sea. This incident happened on 2025-07-07 16:04:00, marking a troubling moment for Belgium’s shipping community.
- Loods raakt ernstig gewond bij loodswissel
- Val van zes meter veroorzaakt zwaar letsel
- Slachtoffer vervoerd naar ziekenhuis in kritieke toestand
- Incident gebeurt voor de kust van Vlissingen
- Transportvakblad Flows meldt ongeval details
- Loodswezen bevestigt situatie aan VRT NWS
The man fell from a height of six meters onto the pilot boat during the transfer to a ship, according to reports from the transport magazine Flows and confirmed by the Loodswezen to VRT NWS. Such accidents highlight the inherent risks faced by pilots navigating busy waterways near Belgium and the Netherlands.
What can be done to prevent similar accidents in the future? The answers may lie in improved safety protocols and equipment, ensuring these essential workers can perform their duties without risking their lives.
How can pilot safety be enhanced along Belgium’s waterways? This accident invites reflection on current practices and potential improvements, including:
- Reviewing and upgrading transfer equipment for stability and safety
- Implementing stricter safety training and emergency response drills
- Increasing awareness of risks among maritime operators and crews
As investigations continue, maritime authorities in Belgium and neighbouring countries must prioritise pilot safety reforms. Will this tragic event lead to stronger protections? The shipping community and public alike await meaningful action.
