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Carriers Resume Suez Transits Despite Red Sea Security Risks

Container lines are accelerating returns to the Suez Canal route despite ongoing security threats from regional conflict, according to Drewry research. A 2,400 teu vessel operated by CU Lines came under small arms fire in the southern Red Sea last week, yet carriers continue pursuing the Asia-Europe corridor. Drewry projects 80% of pre-diversion traffic levels will traverse Suez by February 2027, maintaining that threshold through the forecast period as operators preserve network flexibility. The shift occurs earlier than initially anticipated. However, the financial advantage of Suez routing over Cape of Good Hope diversion appears narrower than commonly assumed. While the Red Sea route offers a two-week transit time advantage and reduced fuel consumption, slot cost comparisons reveal only marginal savings. Carriers appear willing to accept proximity to conflict zones for schedule reliability.