The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is an automatic tracking system used on as a tool to increase navigation safety and efficiency as well as vessel traffic management. It enhances maritime safety and security. AIS' contributions are undeniable in spite of some deficiencies and technical restrictions. This article presents the impacts and uses of AIS technology that can provide useful information to study maritime traffic, especially for the scientific community and port authorities. This desktop study is carried out in the framework of the implementation of a platform to reconstruct shipping routes using AIS data.