The risk of continuing operations through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden region prompted the project heavy-lift carrier, AAL Shipping to increase its Emergency Red Sea Surcharge (ERSS). AAL decided to introduce a surcharge for any affected AAL sailings through the region in light of the escalating threat to normal shipping operations, and the significant increase in insurance premiums for any commercial sailings.

AAL said that it continues to operate multipurpose heavy-lift sailings through the region, in support of its customer supply chain schedules.

“However, there has been a significant increase in insurance premiums required for these sailings, with risk levels in the region currently elevated. Therefore, we have no option but to increase our Emergency Red Sea Surcharge (ERSS) for two ongoing sailings to USD 5.00 per R/T: ‘AAL Paris v24002’ and ‘Caribbean Harmony v24001’,” the company said in its update.

Whilst the situation in the Red Sea remains volatile and can change at any time, the multipurpose heavy-lift carrier said it continues to monitor events daily and is ready to make related adjustments to the mentioned sailings, as well as scheduled voyages including AAL Pusan v24002, AAL Brisbane v24001 and AAL Gunsan 24001.

The Houthi militia continues attacks on ships sailing in the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden region despite the presence of the Prosperity Guardian international task force.