The Panama Canal Authority will increase daily Neopanamax-lock transits to 10 starting from October 15, 2026, as water levels improve. The decision will effectively lift total daily capacity across the Neopanamax and Panamax locks to 33 slots.
The increase in daily transits is based on present and projected Gatun Lake levels with near-average rainfall in the watershed.
The authority has immediately restored the maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax vessels to 49 feet. The immediate draft increase facilitates vessels to carry more cargo. A 10,000-TEU containership will lose roughly 450 TEUs of carrying capacity for every foot of draft restriction.
Imposition of drought-related restrictions and draft limits was due to prolonged water shortage on Gatun Lake, the main reservoir supplying the locks.
The easing of drought-related operating restrictions increases daily transits. Despite the deeper draft allowance and expanded capacity, the booking system remains the only option for guaranteeing a crossing date. Vessels arriving without a reservation will experience indefinite delays.