The Federal Government has suspended the collection of the $300 helicopter landing levy by the concessionaire. This announcement was made by Mr. Odutayo Oluseyi, the Head of Press and Public Affairs in the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in a statement issued on Friday in Lagos.
According to Oluseyi, the decision to suspend the levy collection is aimed at addressing pressing concerns raised by industry stakeholders. The suspension will provide an opportunity for the Ministry to review and address these concerns comprehensively, ensuring that the interests of all parties involved are considered.
The $300 helicopter landing levy had been a contentious issue, with industry players expressing significant concerns about its impact. The Ministry’s decision to suspend the levy collection reflects a willingness to engage with stakeholders and find a resolution that balances regulatory requirements with the operational realities of the aviation industry.
The suspension of this levy collection is expected to bring relief to helicopter operators and other stakeholders within the aviation sector, who have been advocating for a reconsideration of the policy. The Ministry’s engagement with industry players is seen as a positive step towards fostering a more collaborative and conducive environment for the aviation industry in Nigeria.
Oluseyi said: “We want to set the record straight here by stating that the Minister, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), temporarily suspended the project to take a deeper look into issues raised by stakeholders.”
“Contrary to reports, this suspension does not cancel the concession and mandate granted to the consultants responsible for collecting the levy.”
“Instead, a comprehensive review is underway to address issues and develop a forward-thinking approach.”
“A specially constituted committee, comprising representatives of the ministry, its relevant agencies, Airline Operators of Nigeria, and the International Oil Companies (IOCs) is working to achieve this goal.”
The spokesman stressed that the committee’s primary objective was to develop a workable framework for implementing compliance with landing levy payments, ensuring a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
“By doing so, the industry can move forward in a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding,” he added.
The ministry in April announced the helicopter landing levy and gave NAEBI Dynamic Concept Limited the sole right to collect the levy.