The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) said on Friday (4 Sep) that the previously announced draught reduction to 14.48 metres Tropical Fresh Water (TFW), scheduled to take effect on 1 October 2026, has been postponed. The decision follows the Canal’s latest review of Gatun Lake levels and weather projections.       The waterway said that it will maintain the current maximum authorised draught of 14.63 metres (TFW) limit for vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks.   Keeping the current draught in place gives customers greater continuity for voyage planning and vessel deployment. It also reflects the Panama Canal’s focus on responding to changing conditions in a way that supports its customers while preserving safe and efficient operations, the ACP said. The ACP stated that the remaining measures remain in place, such as the reduction in daily transits from 36 to 34 with effect from 4 September, and subsequently to 32 daily transits from 15 September.      The Canal will continue evaluating water conditions and will provide advance notice of any future changes that may affect vessel draft requirements. This ongoing monitoring is part of its broader commitment to offering customers a reliable, predictable, and efficient service.