Panama Canal expands long-term slot program to panamax locks for first time

October 7 ------ The Panama Canal is expanding its Long-term Slot Allocation (LoTSA) program to the Panamax locks for the first time, giving shipping companies the option to secure transit slots in advance during the dry season.

The new program will cover transits from January 3 to April 3, 2027, with the existing LoTSA program continuing at the Neopanamax locks. The initiative is designed to give carriers greater certainty when planning voyages, scheduling vessels and managing supply chains during a period when water availability can affect canal operations.

The Neopanamax LoTSA competition will take place on November 17, 2026, offering 36 packages with 270 transit slots. The new Panamax pilot program will follow on November 24, with 51 packages providing 288 slots.

Both programs will use sealed-bid competitions, with slots distributed for northbound and southbound transits. The Panamax pilot will offer three daily transit slots throughout the program period.

The expansion comes as the Panama Canal continues to introduce measures aimed at maintaining reliable operations amid climatic conditions affecting water availability. The authority said remaining capacity will continue to be offered through its regular reservation system and auction process.

By allowing customers to reserve slots months in advance, the LoTSA programs are intended to improve voyage planning and provide shipping companies with greater predictability as they navigate the canal’s seasonal operating challenges.

Source: safety4sea.com