The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has launched an expanded phase of its Long-Term Slot Allocation (LoTSA) program, designed to give shipping lines greater predictability and schedule reliability during the challenging dry season. This covers transit dates from January 3 to April 3, 2027. Extension to Panamax Locks: For the first time ever, the program is being expanded beyond the larger Neopanamax locks to include the original Panamax locks via a new pilot program. Shipping companies can bid for packages of pre-allocated transit slots through the Panama Canal Transit Auction System.
The program provides 3 slots per day for each lock system, translating to 270 total slots for Neopanamax and 288 total slots for Panamax over the cycle. The sealed-bid competitions are scheduled for November 17, 2026, for Neopanamax packages and November 24, 2026, for Panamax packages. The main goal of LoTSA is to help ocean carriers with fixed itineraries secure transit capacity well in advance. This significantly reduces their reliance on the volatile daily booking market and mitigates supply chain disruption caused by water conservation measures and seasonal droughts in Gatun Lake.
The Canal indicated that the Panamax program will maintain the award mechanism , selection criteria, and tie-breaking rules used in LoTSA Neopanamax. The remaining capacity will continue to be offered through the regular Reservation System and auctions , as is currently the case. The initiative is being developed while the Canal maintains operational measures related to water availability and weather conditions that impact its operations.
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