The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has clarified the aviation charges applicable to helicopter operations supporting Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas activities, confirming that the US$300 helicopter levy remains payable while the Terminal Navigational Charge (TNC) does not apply to landings at private offshore facilities and platforms.
The clarification was contained in a circular signed by the Commission Chief Executive, Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, following concerns raised by stakeholders over the introduction, structure and implementation of the helicopter levy and its implications for upstream petroleum operations.
According to the NUPRC, the US$300 levy for air navigational services remains payable to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). However, helicopter operators conducting flights in support of upstream petroleum activities at private offshore facilities and platforms are not liable for the TNC.
The Commission said the distinction followed a review of the aviation-related charges affecting the upstream petroleum sector. The review was initiated after concerns raised by the NUPRC and subsequently led to the constitution of a Ministerial Review Committee by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on March 9, 2026.
The NUPRC said the review established a clear distinction between helicopter operations undertaken in support of upstream petroleum activities and other helicopter operations.
It explained that the TNC remains applicable to helicopter operations that are not connected with upstream petroleum activities. Such operations include medical evacuation, private charter services and agricultural activities.
The clarification provides greater certainty for oil and gas operators and helicopter service providers by establishing which aviation charges apply to different categories of helicopter operations.
It also resolves concerns over the potential application of the TNC to helicopters transporting personnel and supporting activities at private offshore oil and gas facilities, where such flights are directly linked to upstream petroleum operations.
The Commission urged affected operators and other stakeholders to take note of the clarification and ensure compliance with the charges applicable to their respective operations.
