Air draft

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For other uses, see Draft.
The deck of the Allenburg Bridge on Canada's Welland Canal typically rests only a few metres above the water level. When a ship approaches, the deck is raised to provide sufficient air draft for the vessel to pass through.
The deck of the Allenburg Bridge on Canada's Welland Canal typically rests only a few metres above the water level. When a ship approaches, the deck is raised to provide sufficient air draft for the vessel to pass through.

Air draft is the distance from the water line to the highest point on the vessel. Air draft, plus a safety margin, determines the height required for a vessel above the water -- this is typically quoted for bridges over waterways as well as any other restrictions such as power lines.

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