Panama Canal increases transit capacity and vessel draft limits

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) is increasing transit capacity and vessel draft limits due to improved water conditions in the Gatun Lake watershed. Starting October 15, 2026, daily Neopanamax lock transits will increase from nine to 10, bringing the total daily capacity across Neopanamax and Panamax locks to 33 vessels. Additionally, the maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax vessels has been raised to 49 feet (14.94 meters) with immediate effect.

These operational adjustments follow a period of restrictions caused by drought and El Niño. The ACP attributed the improvements to recent rainfall levels approaching historical averages and the effectiveness of implemented water-saving measures. Despite the easing of restrictions, officials noted that a water deficit persists in the watershed and emphasized that the Transit Reservation System remains necessary to guarantee passage.

Separately, the National Assembly of Panama unanimously approved the Panama Canal's operating budget for the fiscal period from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027. The $5.555 billion budget includes an estimated $3.607 billion in contributions to the National Treasury. The funds are intended to support water security, operational resilience, and long-term infrastructure projects, including the construction of a reservoir in the Rio Indio basin.