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

The operators have responded to the federal government’s decision to suspend the controversial $300 helicopter landing fee.

The decision to suspend the tax was made after massive protests against the tax.

Naija News reported that the Minister for Aerospace Development, Festus KeyamoOn Friday, the Federal Government announced the temporary suspension of the controversial helicopter landing fee.

Keyamo said in a statement by the ministry spokesperson: Odutayo Oluseyisaid the suspension was intended to allow a review of the directive after stakeholders complained about its introduction.

In an interview with Daily Trust, Aero Contractors Chairman Captain Ado Sanusi praised the government for the suspension, saying it shows that the government is listening.

Sanusi pointed out that the levy would have hampered the growth of general aviation, which includes helicopter operations.

Naija News recalls that the Federal Government has $300 Helicopter landing raise.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Aviation’s Press and Public Relations Officer, the government has granted permission to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to start collecting the fees.

The statement further said that NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited has been granted sole authority to administer helicopter landing fees for federal agencies on behalf of NAMA for the Federal Government.

However, following vehement opposition to the levy by aviation stakeholders, Keyamo announced on Friday that the levy had been suspended with effect from May 30, 2024, to allow for a review.

He added that a committee has been set up to address the issues raised by the stakeholders concerned and to submit a report by the end of June 2024 at the latest.