Panama Canal announces higher draft limit and more daily transit slots

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) announced an increase in daily transit slots and the maximum authorized draft for the Neopanamax locks, following improved rainfall in September and supported by water conservation measures and projected water levels in Gatun Lake.

The number of daily transits through the Neopanamax locks will increase to 10 starting October 15, 2026, bringing the total number of daily slots to 33. According to the ACP, the increase is based on current and projected water levels in Gatun Lake.

The maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks has also increased to 14.94 meters (49 feet), effective immediately and until further notice. The ACP attributed the adjustment to near-average rainfall in the Panama Canal watershed and the effectiveness of water-saving measures implemented at the locks.

Regarding booking rules, limits on the number of slots allocated to each customer per day or week will be removed starting September 29, 2026, for transit dates on or after October 15. Bookings for consecutive dates will also be permitted.

The 10 daily Neopanamax slots will be allocated through special allocations, the LoTSA and NetZero programs, bookings during designated reservation periods, and a daily auction. Slots allocated through the auction will not count toward segment limits.

By vessel type, the full-container ship segment will receive at least six daily slots, allocated according to TTA capacity, while the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) segment will receive at least three. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, vehicle carriers (Ro-Ro), bulk carriers and other vessel segments will retain minimum weekly allocations governed by customer rankings.

If slots remain unallocated in a given segment, they will be reassigned to other vessel segments according to a priority order outlined in the ACP’s advisory to shipping companies.

Despite the operational improvements, the ACP warned that the watershed continues to face a water deficit. The Transit Reservation System remains the only way to secure a transit date, while vessels without reservations may face indefinite delays.

The ACP said it would continue to closely monitor water conditions and rainfall and promptly announce any further adjustments as conditions allow.

Source: Portal Portuario

Sharing is caring!