Despite widespread industry opposition, billing for Naebi Dynamics Concept’s $300 landing levy on various aviation facilities, including aerodromes, helipads, and oil platforms has commenced.
NigerianFLIGHTDECK cited a billing invoice to an operator (unmentioned) dated April 25, 2024, with payment status pending.
Minister Festus Keyamo issued this directive on April 25, 2024, despite a petition he received during his first engagement in Lagos.
History:
Lawrence Fubara Anga, a lawyer, in November called for an investigation into Naebi Dynamics and the Ministry of Aviation’s commercial agreement in 2022. Minister Keyamo, seemingly surprised, requested a petition to grasp Naebi Dynamics Concept’s $300 landing levy however no word was heard since then.
However, in January, Naebi Dynamics Concept partnered with the Ministry of Aviation, and UK’s Tensor Equipment for helicopter tracking solutions.
This recent levy has sparked questions about Naebi Dynamics Concept’s aviation role and its value proposition in the industry. Concerns linger over the company’s insistence on billing in dollars.
Roland Iyayi, CEO of Topbrass Aviation, has criticized the $300 charge, emphasising its detrimental effects on helicopter operations.
Rationale:
The one-time Nigerian Airspace Management Agency boss said that the previous administration installed the multilateration surveillance systems in the Niger Delta under the Agency. He questions the rationale behind the levy, particularly as Naebi Dynamics Concept has not provided infrastructure corresponding to the fees imposed.
Iyayi emphasizes the impact of multiple aviation taxes, hindering fixed-wing airlines’ growth and shifting focus to rotary-wing aircraft.
The debate intensifies as Iyayi challenges the necessity of the Landing Levy and its potential to disrupt the industry’s stability.
He inquired, “What is the Landing Levy for? Does it replace the industry standard landing fee? What services are provided unpaid by helicopters?
He affirmed, “Helicopter operations are fully regulated in Nigeria, from licensing to landing fees. This Landing Levy is arbitrary and may cripple the industry if not cancelled.”
Impact:
He calculated, “Escravos hosts Chevron’s helicopters, averaging 70 landings per day, totaling $21,000 per aircraft. With 4-6 helicopters, it amounts to about $105,000 per day. For a 25-day month, it reaches $2,625,000, exceeding operational costs.”
Chevron’s contracts include Monthly Standing Charge and Hourly Charge, making the Levy unjustifiable as it surpasses the costs outlined.
