The Panama Canal has increased transit availability and raised the permitted draft for Neopanamax vessels following improved water conditions and favourable hydrological projections.

As of 9 November, the date of the announcement published by the Canal, daily capacity for Super-category vessels using the Panamax Locks has risen from 18 to 19 booking slots.

The adjustment takes total daily capacity across the Panamax and Neopanamax locks to 34 transits.

Additionally, the Canal's Authority has increased the maximum authorised draft at the Neopanamax Locks to 15.24 metres (50 feet), effective immediately and until further notice.

The latest measures follow a rainy October that helped Gatun Lake recover to an average level of 26.15 metres (85.80 feet).

Improved water levels reduce some of the operational constraints previously affecting canal movements.

This means that vessels can carry more cargo within draft requirements, while greater transit availability can ease waiting times.

For carriers, this can simplify scheduling and contingency planning, while shippers may benefit from greater certainty around deliveries.