Panama Canal Announces New Long-term Slot Allocation Program for the Neopanamax and Panamax Locks (LoTSA)

The Panama Canal announced a new phase of its Long-term Slot Allocation (LoTSA) program, covering the period from January 3rd to April 3 rd, 2027. The program, for the first time, reaches both sets of locks: LoTSA Neopanamax continues the program customers already know, and the new LoTSA Panamax Pilot Program extends the same opportunity to customers transiting the Panamax locks.

LoTSA is designed to give customers greater predictability when planning their operations, allowing them to secure transit slots in advance during the dry season. This option provides more certainty for scheduling itineraries and makes logistics planning easier for Canal users.

The program will be offered through sealed-bid competitions and will be backed by a specialized customer service team, dedicated to providing timely support and a smooth experience for participants.

The competition for the LoTSA Neopanamax will be held on November 17 th, 2026, while the LoTSA Panamax pilot program competition will take place on November 24 th, 2026.

This story was originally published by Panama Canal Authority. Read the full story at Panama Canal Authority →