Operators’ reaction to Keyamo’s suspension of the $300 helicopter landing fee

• The federal government’s decision to suspend the $300 levy on helipads was welcomed by operators
• Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced the temporary suspension following protests and is waiting for further action pending a report from the committee of inquiry.

The operators welcomed the federal government’s decision to suspend the controversial $300 fee on helipads.

The suspension followed widespread protests against the levy, prompting the Minister of Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to announce its temporary suspension.

Keyamo’s predecessor, Senator Hadi Sirika, had initially defended the levy, but helicopter operators reacted vehemently to the rejection, which ultimately led to the decision to suspend it.

In a statement by ministry spokesman Odutayo Oluseyi, Keyamo said that further action would only be taken after the report of a committee of inquiry had been submitted and examined.

Aero Contractors CEO Captain Ado Sanusi praised the government’s responsiveness, noting that the suspension demonstrated its willingness to listen to stakeholders. Sanusi stressed that the levy could have hampered the growth of general aviation, including helicopter operations.