NUPRC Retains $300 Helicopter Levy, Exempts Private Offshore Platforms

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission has confirmed that a $300 helicopter landing levy remains in effect for operations supporting the country's upstream petroleum industry, while clarifying that a separate Terminal Navigational Charge does not apply to landings at private offshore oil facilities and platforms. The decision, outlined in a circular dated August 28, 2026, and signed by Commission Chief Executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, aims to resolve prolonged uncertainty among oil and gas operators and helicopter service providers regarding the application of aviation charges. The circular states that the $300 levy per landing is retained and must be paid to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency through its approved collection mechanism. However, the regulator drew a clear distinction between this statutory air navigation charge and the Terminal Navigational Charge. The TNC is payable only for landings at government-owned aerodromes and does not apply to private offshore petroleum installations or platforms.