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Maersk has completed a second transit through the Red Sea and Suez Canal, but remains cautious about resuming regular services, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.
The US-flagged 6,200-TEU Maersk Denver transited the Bab al-Mandeb on 11-12 January without incident. The vessel, contracted to carry US government cargo, is scheduled to pass through the Suez Canal later this week before heading to the US East Coast and Houston.
The Maersk Sebarok became the first of the carrier's ships to return to the route in December. That vessel is registered in Singapore and deployed on services to India.
Maersk said it would continue a stepwise approach to resuming navigation along the East-West corridor, provided security thresholds are met. The company stressed no further sailings have yet been announced.
The Suez Canal Authority has urged carriers to return, citing improved safety and efficiency. Maersk has been diverting vessels on its MECL service around South Africa, a routing that takes 63 days from Charleston to India.
CMA CGM has moved more aggressively, sending several vessels through the canal, including its LNG-fuelled 24,000-TEU flagship Jacques Saade in December.
Analysts said carriers remain cautious, with insurance adjustments needed to make the route viable. Regional unrest, including protests in Iran and fears of confrontation, may further slow plans to restore services.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9260100000459
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