Comsat Backs FCC Maritime Mobile Accounting Authority Departure, Seeks Default Role

Comsat continued to agree with an FCC plan "to withdraw as accounting authority of last resort," which settles accounts between earth or coast stations and ships engaged in international maritime mobile communications (see 1701030002). Comsat repeated its belief the "default accounting role is essential" for safety and logistical concerns and is best served by the company, said filings (here and here) Wednesday in docket 98-96 on meetings with an aide to Commissioner Mike O'Rielly and another agency staffer. It said it was the only party to volunteer publicly for the role, and it addressed concerns the agency and others raised about the transition.