The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has announced the cancellation of the contentious $300 landing levy imposed on helicopter operators within Nigeria.

The levy, which had been outsourced to Messers NAEBI Dynamic Concept Limited for collection, faced significant backlash from helicopter operators who deemed it unnecessary.

The suspension of the levy was announced on behalf of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Spokesman, Mr Oluseyi Odutayo.

The decision to halt the levy follows a meeting with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) executives and is pending further review by a newly formed committee.

“Following a meeting with the AON executive on the issue of helicopter landing levies collection at aerodromes, helipads, airstrips, and others, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has temporarily suspended the enforcement granted to Messers NAEBI Dynamic Concept Ltd.,” the statement said.

“The suspension is with effect from 30th May, 2024,” it added.

The ministry indicated that the suspension was prompted by calls from industry stakeholders for a review.

Consequently, a committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, its relevant agencies, AON, International Oil Companies (IOCs), and Messers NAEBI Dynamic Concept Ltd., has been tasked to examine the concerns and submit a report by the end of June 2024.