Nigeria’s aviation industry is facing renewed tension as helicopter operators and oil firms challenge a revived $300-per-landing fee imposed by the Federal Government. The controversial policy, originally introduced under former President Muhammadu Buhari, has resurfaced after several years of pushback and temporary suspension.
Reinstated in May 2025, the landing fee now threatens to strain relations between the government and key players in both the aviation and oil sectors. Operators argue that the levy, which applies to every helicopter touchdown on oil rigs, helipads, airstrips, and similar facilities, is excessive, unsustainable, and not grounded in proper aviation cost-recovery principles.
Industry stakeholders say the cumulative financial impact is staggering. For example, in one contract involving five helicopters with up to 70 daily landings, the landing fees alone could exceed $588,000 monthly. Operators also pay various federal taxes and charges, pushing the total government take to over 40% of their contract earnings — all before accounting for operational costs.
Captain Roland Iyayi, a trustee of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), criticized the move, saying it adds undue pressure to a sector already burdened by multiple taxes and levies. “You’re asking helicopter companies to pay in dollars even after banning dollar transactions, and with no added services in return,” he said.
The renewed policy, enforced by a directive from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), mandates that NAEBI Dynamic Concept Limited collect the landing fees. NAMA recently issued a seven-day ultimatum to oil firms and helicopter operators to submit payment plans or risk losing clearance for operations — a move that has only deepened the standoff.
Critics are questioning the legality and transparency of the fee, especially regarding the involvement of NAEBI Dynamic Concept as the sole collector. Former NAMA Managing Director, Captain Ado Sanusi, expressed concern that the levy lacks justification under international aviation standards, particularly those set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which require charges to reflect service investments.
“If there has been no investment in navigation, surveillance, or communication, then what exactly are these charges for?” Sanusi asked, warning that unchecked levies could set a dangerous precedent.
The oil sector is also bracing for the ripple effects. Industry expert Joe Nwakwue cautioned that the added costs could further depress crude output, with Nigeria already producing 500,000 barrels per day below capacity. He added that service companies are unlikely to absorb the fees, meaning costs will eventually hit oil producers and consumers.
With over 200 operational helipads, rigs, and landing sites across the country, the government could generate up to N120 million daily from the fee. However, operators warn this gain may come at the expense of jobs, investment, and operational viability in both aviation and oil industries.
