AON’s Position on Helicopter Landing and Take-Off Fee Controversy
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), represented by spokesperson Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, has publicly rejected the recent imposition of a “Landing and Take-Off Fee” for helicopters operating on oil rigs and private helipads. This fee, introduced by the former Minister of Aviation in May 2021 and collected by Naebi Dynamic Concepts Limited, has sparked significant controversy within the aviation industry.
The issue originated in 2018 when Naebi Dynamic Concepts proposed the fee to the then Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, who sought input from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The NCAA, along with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), found no legal basis or justification for such a fee, as they provide no services at the private helipads and oil rigs in question.
Despite this, the former Minister approved the fee’s collection, leading to Naebi Dynamic Concepts demanding substantial payments in US dollars from helicopter operators, who already bear high operational costs. This move was criticized for its lack of legal framework and adherence to international aviation policies.
The current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has issued directives for compliance with the fee, threatening sanctions for non-payment. However, AON strongly opposes the fee, citing several reasons:
1. No Additional Services Provided: NAMA does not provide extra services to helicopter operators at private helipads and oil rigs, making the fee unjustifiable.
2. Violation of Legal Provisions: The fee contravenes section 7(1)(r) of the NAMA Act and ICAO Document 9082, which only allow charges for provided services.
3. Lack of Consultation and Approval: NAMA failed to consult stakeholders or obtain NCAA approval, violating Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.
4. Currency Issue: The fee demands payment in US dollars, against the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, which mandates the use of Naira.
Furthermore, AON highlights procedural flaws in engaging Naebi Dynamic Concepts, noting the lack of adherence to the Public Procurement Act.
A recent meeting between AON and the Minister led to the temporary suspension of the fee and the formation of a committee to address the issues raised. AON appreciates the Minister’s responsiveness and support for the aviation sector’s sustainability.
