….Criticize Ex-Minister’s Approval
….Call for Suspension
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has condemned the unlawful imposition of a Helicopter Landing and Take-off Fee by Naebi Dynamic Concepts Limited, as approved by the former Minister of Aviation in May 2021.
In a statement signed by the AON spokesman, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, the fee, which is being demanded in US Dollars, is illegal and unjustified.
According to the AON, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) does not provide any additional service to helicopter operators to justify the imposition of the fee at all helipads, oil rig platforms, FSPOs, FSOs, etc. in Nigeria.
The agency’s failure to adhere to policies, principles, and guidelines contained in ICAO Documents 9082 and 9161 is also a major concern.
The AON has also expressed disappointment that NAMA did not consult with helicopter operators and other stakeholders before imposing the fee, and that the engagement of Naebi Dynamic Concepts Limited did not follow due process.
The airline body has therefore called for the immediate suspension of the collection of the fee and the setting up of a committee to investigate the issues raised by the AON and other stakeholders.
The AON has also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development for giving a listening ear to its position on the matter and for his great leadership of the aviation industry and support for the growth and sustainability of Nigerian air operators.
They also highlighted the need for NAMA to adhere to the principles and procedures of consultation with users, cost-relatedness, non-discrimination, and transparency in the application of charges and fees.
The organization has also emphasized the importance of the unit of currency in Nigeria being the Naira, contrary to the demand for payment in US Dollars.
The statement urged all helicopter operators in Nigeria to reject the unlawful fee and to demand a refund of any amount already paid.
The AON called on the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development to take immediate action to address the issues raised by the AON and other stakeholders.
