Capt. Efrain Hallax, a vital figure in the Panama Canal's history, shares insights from his unique vantage point as he balances tradition and transition in a 24/7 operation.
**Navigating Change: Capt. Efrain Hallax's Legacy in the Panama Canal**
**Navigating Change: Capt. Efrain Hallax's Legacy in the Panama Canal**
A seasoned pilot reflects on over four decades of guiding ships through a pivotal waterway amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
Capt. Efrain Hallax, now 73, has been a ship's pilot in the Panama Canal for more than 40 years, and he remains an integral part of the canal's operations, which connects the Pacific Ocean with the Caribbean Sea. Hallax was among the first batch of Panamanian pilots hired in 1983, stepping into a role previously held by American pilots since the canal's opening in 1914.
On a February night, the experienced pilot found himself climbing the side of the Athina, a large tanker preparing to transit the canal. Even though it was just after a pivotal call cancellation between Presidents Trump and Mulino regarding the canal's future, Captain Hallax remained grounded in his routine. “Business as usual,” he remarked, illustrating the 24-hour nature of the canal, through which 3% of the world's maritime trade flows.
At present, Hallax is one of 316 trained pilots, a cohort that includes just six women, all authorized by the Panama Canal Authority to navigate vessels through this crucial waterway. His long tenure encompasses ongoing changes in operations and geopolitical dynamics yet reflects a steadfast commitment to the canal and its significance. “No matter Christmas, no matter rain, no matter Trump,” he stated, demonstrating his resilience and professionalism in a role that is essential for global trade.
On a February night, the experienced pilot found himself climbing the side of the Athina, a large tanker preparing to transit the canal. Even though it was just after a pivotal call cancellation between Presidents Trump and Mulino regarding the canal's future, Captain Hallax remained grounded in his routine. “Business as usual,” he remarked, illustrating the 24-hour nature of the canal, through which 3% of the world's maritime trade flows.
At present, Hallax is one of 316 trained pilots, a cohort that includes just six women, all authorized by the Panama Canal Authority to navigate vessels through this crucial waterway. His long tenure encompasses ongoing changes in operations and geopolitical dynamics yet reflects a steadfast commitment to the canal and its significance. “No matter Christmas, no matter rain, no matter Trump,” he stated, demonstrating his resilience and professionalism in a role that is essential for global trade.
