The Panama Canal Authority has postponed a planned reduction in the maximum authorized draft for vessels using the Neopanamax Locks, allowing larger ships to continue operating under the current 14.63-meter (48-foot Tropical Fresh Water draft limit.

The maximum draft was scheduled to decrease to 14.48 meters (47.5 feet) on October 1, 2026. The authority said the adjustment has now been postponed following its latest assessment of water levels in Gatun Lake and updated weather projections.

The latest decision marks another delay to draft restrictions being considered as the canal manages reduced rainfall and changing water conditions in its watershed. Maintaining the existing draft gives containerships, gas carriers and other large vessels greater flexibility in cargo loading and voyage planning through the waterway.

The Panama Canal Authority said it will continue monitoring lake levels, watershed inflows and weather conditions. Any future changes affecting vessel draft requirements will be announced in advance when conditions allow, as the canal works to maintain safe and reliable vessel transits.