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6 October 2026

Panama Canal extends long-term slot program to Panamax locks

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Source reporting: Container News

Panama Canal extends long-term slot program to Panamax locks

The Panama Canal will extend its Long-Term Slot Allocation (LoTSA) program to the Panamax locks for the first time, giving customers more options to secure transit capacity in advance. The new phase will cover the period from 3 January to 3 April 2027. It will include the existing LoTSA Neopanamax program and a new pilot program for vessels using the Panamax locks. The Canal said the program aims to provide greater predictability for customers when planning vessel schedules during the dry season. It also seeks to improve logistics planning as water availability continues to influence Canal operations.

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