PANAMA CITY: The Panama Canal announced, through an Advisory to Shipping, an increase in its daily transit capacity with the addition of one booking slot for Super vessels at the Panamax locks, bringing the total number of available slots in this category from 18 to 19 per day.
With this adjustment, the canal’s total daily transit capacity increases to 34 slots, comprising 24 at the Panamax locks and 10 at the Neopanamax locks. This expansion provides shipping lines with greater access to the Panama Canal and increased flexibility in planning their itineraries.
The announcement also confirmed an increase in the maximum allowable draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks to 15.24 meters (50 feet), effective November 9, 2026. This draft limit will remain in effect until further notice.
The adjustment takes effect immediately and reflects improved lake levels and favorable hydrological forecasts, which allow the canal to optimize water use while maintaining the sustainability of its operations.
The additional booking slot will be made available through the Panama Canal’s regular Transit Reservation System. For transit dates between November 12 and 17, 2026, the slot will be offered during Booking Period 3 (Auction). For transit dates between November 18 – 23, 2026, it will be available during Booking Period 2 (Special Competition). Beginning with transit dates of November 24, 2026, the additional slot will be offered during the regular opening of the Second Competition Period.
The Panama Canal reminds its customers that the Transit Reservation System remains the only mechanism that guarantees a transit date. Vessels without a reservation may experience significantly longer waiting times.
The Panama Canal continues to closely monitor hydrological conditions across its watershed and lake levels. It will communicate any necessary adjustments in a timely manner to ensure the continued reliability, competitiveness, and sustainability of the interoceanic route.
