Estonian and Swedish safety investigation authorities to conduct underwater surveys on Estonian wreck

Under the auspices of the Estonian flag state, the Estonian (OJK) and Swedish (SHK) accident investigation authorities are carrying out preliminary assessment work to determine the origin of ruptures in the MS Estonia wreckage, which came to light in two new Deplay film documentaries, and to compare the findings with the Joint Accident Investigation Commission (JAIC) report. Finland has appointed a representative and assistants for the assessment.

The Estonian flag state’s accident investigation authority has concluded that the preliminary assessment work cannot be completed without underwater investigation activities.

In a plenary session on 4 June 2021, the Finnish Parliament approved the Act on the Temporary Amendment of the Act on the Decommissioning of the Wreck of the Passenger Ship MS Estonia (OM005:00/2021 Matkustaja-alus Estonian hylyn rauhoittamista koskevan sääntelyn muuttaminen), which was confirmed by the President of the Republic of Finland on 18 June. The amendment will allow underwater investigation activities and will enter into force on 1 July 2021 and remain in force until the end of 2024.

The Estonian Safety Investigation Bureau (OJK) and the Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) are about to conduct underwater surveys on the wreck in week 27. The Finnish Safety Investigation Authority is not involved in the underwater activities but has assisted its counterparts in the preliminary assessment.