Suez Canal feels the heat as piracy spikes

[unhappycamper]

Suez Canal feels the heat as piracy spikes
By Maggie Michael - The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Nov 25, 2008 21:40:36 EST

CAIRO, Egypt — For nearly 140 years it’s been a vital shortcut between East and West, cutting days off the time ships must travel from Asia to Europe or America. But the Suez Canal now faces an enormous challenge, as the scourge of Somali piracy prompts major shipping companies to seek another route.

Egypt, which is heavily dependent on the fees it charges ships to go through the canal, has expressed concern over a possible drop in income — though officials say they are hopeful an international flotilla patrolling the pirate infested waters will be able to ensure safe passage.

“For sure it will have a bad effect,” if continued, said Gen. Ahmed Fadel, head of Suez Canal Authority.

At least two shipping companies have announced their vessels will take the long route around the southern tip of Africa rather than go through the canal, which requires crossing through the Gulf of Aden, scene of most pirate attacks.

The 120-mile (193-kilometer) long canal gives a vital shortcut linking the U.S. and Europe with the Indian Ocean and its Asian ports. The canal runs between the Mediterranean and the Red seas, where there have been no pirate attacks. But the only access from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean is through the Gulf of Aden, where Somali pirates have hijacked more than three dozen ships and attacked dozens more so far.


Rest of article at: http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/11/ap_piracy_suez_112508/%2e