The Panama Canal Authority will begin implementing a new risk-based vessel inspection model from October, allowing some ships to qualify for digital checks after an initial physical assessment, reported Saint Petersburg's PortNews.

Under the new system, vessels entering Canal jurisdictional waters will receive a physical inspection by a Canal Admeasurer, valid for one year. This initial inspection remains unchanged from current practice.

Vessels may qualify for digital inspections on future Canal transits if five conditions are met: a valid inspection for the intended operation; complete and timely submission of visit information; a current Naval Inspection Checklist; up-to-date documentation; and a low-risk evaluation.

All inspection data must be submitted through the Panama Maritime Single Window, known as VUMPA, by the vessel's shipping agency.

A familiarisation period will run until December 31. From January, full compliance with documentation and submission requirements will be mandatory.

Regardless of inspection type, pilot transfer arrangements must be fully prepared and operational upon arrival.