The new SOLAS Chapter V requires AIS be fitted aboard the following newbuildings built after July 1, 2002.

• all ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards engaged on international voyages,
  
• cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and upwards not engaged on international voyages and
  
• all passenger ships, irrespective of size
  

Ships engaged on international voyages constructed before July 1 2002, must fit AIS according to the following timetable:

• passenger ships, not later than
  July 1, 2003;
  
• tankers, not later than the first survey for safety equipment on or after July 1, 2003;
  
• ships, other than passenger ships and tankers, of 50,000 gross tonnage and upwards, not later than July 1, 2004;
  
• ships, other than passenger ships and tankers, of 10,000 gross tonnage and upwards but less than 50,000 gross tonnage, not later than July 1, 2005;
  
• ships, other than passenger ships and tankers, of 3,000 gross tonnage and upwards but less than 10,000 gross tonnage, not later than July 1, 2006.
  
• ships, other than passenger ships and tankers, of 300 gross tonnage and upwards but less than 3,000 gross tonnage, not later than July 1, 2007;
  
• ships not engaged on international voyages constructed before July 1, 2002, will have to fit AIS not later than July 1, 2008.
  

A flag State may exempt ships from carrying AIS when ships will be taken permanently out of service within two years after the implementation date.

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