Panama Canal implements ‘Just-in-Time’ trial

Participation in the trial will focus on vessels equipped with ‘Type-A’ Automatic Identification System (AIS) devices.  In order to evaluate the operational feasibility of the service, a proof-of-concept trial was developed and has been implemented since February 2013.

According to the Canal authority, in order for this service to be functional for both the Canal and its clients, vessel arrival time (ETA) must be as accurate as possible.  Equally, the vessel must be willing and able to adjust its itinerary to meet the required ETA and comply with the ACP pre-inspection procedures.  Allocation will be on a first come – first served request basis.

Selected vessels will be notified approximately 96 hours prior to their scheduled transit of their required ETA and tentative transit time. Satellite Automatic Identification System (SAIS) technology will be used to track the vessel within a range of 2,000 nautical miles before arrival to ensure that they can comply with the stipulated ETA. Non-booked vessels may also request participation.