The Ministry of Aviation and Aeros Development has affirmed its stance on the newly introduced levy for helicopter operators in Nigeria, despite recent protests from the operators questioning the rationale behind the imposition of the new levy.
The federal government has granted exclusive rights to a consultant, NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited, to collect helicopter landing levies. In a statement by the Head of Press and Public Affairs of the Ministry, Odutayo Oluseyi, it was emphasized that the introduction of helicopter landing levies aligns with international best practices aimed at enhancing the quality of helicopter operations and is considered a cost recovery measure.
The Ministry highlighted that helicopter landing levies are common in various countries worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and India. This move is supported by an MoU between the Ministry, NAMA, FAAN, and NCAA. The objective is to enable NAMA to generate sufficient resources to sustain aeronautical architecture, enhance security and surveillance, and improve the overall quality of helicopter operations in Nigeria.
Despite objections from helicopter operators, such as Capt. Ado Sanusi, CEO of Aero Contractors, who perceive the new levy as an additional burden, the Ministry remains steadfast in its decision.
Operators have expressed concerns over the lack of input from FAAN in the construction of helipads, questioning the basis for the levy charges by NAEBI Dynamics. However, the Ministry asserts that this initiative will ultimately improve capacity, efficiency, safety, security, and attract more investment in the aviation industry.
