Panama Canal Capacity Rises
Panama Canal Eases Water Restrictions and Raises Draft Limits Amid Improving Conditions
Anonymous
The Panama Canal Authority is easing water-related restrictions after near-average rainfall and water-saving measures improved conditions in the watershed. Starting October 15, 2026, Neopanamax capacity will rise from nine to 10 daily transits, bringing total daily transits across both lock systems to 33; the Panamax locks will remain at 23. The maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax vessels has returned to 49 feet, effective immediately, allowing larger ships to carry more cargo. The authority cautioned that a water deficit persists and said vessels without reservations may face indefinite delays.
Key Points
1
Starting September 29, booking limits on the number of slots allocated to each customer per day or week will be removed for transit dates on or after October 15, and customers will be allowed to book consecutive dates.
2
The authority plans to allocate at least six of the 10 daily Neopanamax slots to full-container ships and at least three to LPG carriers; other vessel segments retain minimum weekly allocations.
3
The Panamax locks will continue operating with a 39.5-foot maximum draft, while their 23 daily transits remain below their usual average of 26.
4
The Neopanamax draft had recently been reduced to 48 feet, and the canal’s maximum operational draft is 50 feet; restoring the limit to 49 feet is particularly significant for LNG carriers and larger containerships.
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