Nigeria Temporary Relief for Helicopter Operators as FG Suspends Landing Levies Following Stakeholders Concerns

The Nigerian government has temporarily suspended helicopter landing levies after industry pushback. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced the suspension and formed a committee to review stakeholders' concerns

The federal government of Nigeria has temporarily suspended the collection of helicopter landing levies following a backlash from stakeholders.

This decision was announced on May 31, 2024, after a meeting between the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) executives and Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.


The helicopter landing levies, introduced on April 26 and enforced by aviation consulting firm NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited, were intended to support surveillance efforts in line with global best practices. However, the aviation industry voiced significant concerns over the financial burden these levies would impose.

Odutayo Oluseyi, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the suspension is effective from May 30, 2024, following demands for a review from industry stakeholders.

A committee has been formed to address these concerns, including representatives from the ministry, its relevant agencies, AON, international oil companies (IOCs), and NAEBI Dynamic Concept. This committee is tasked with submitting a report by the end of June.

Stakeholders have expressed reservations about the appropriateness of the levies, fearing they could threaten the sustainability of the helicopter transport sector.

The committee's recommendations are expected to provide a way forward, balancing the need for surveillance with the viability of the aviation industry.

This suspension comes amid broader discussions about regulatory and financial pressures on Nigeria's aviation sector. Helicopter operators had rejected the fee, arguing that it posed a serious threat to their operations.

The ministry's decision to review the levy underscores the ongoing dialogue between the government and industry stakeholders to ensure policies support both regulatory objectives and the sector's economic health.