NUPRC Confirms $300 Helicopter Levy, Exempts Offshore Platforms from Terminal Charge
CHIGOZIE AMADI
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission has sent fresh guidance to upstream operators, permit holders and lease holders to clear up confusion around the US$300 Helicopter Levy for air navigation services.
In a circular signed by Commission Chief Executive Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, NUPRC affirmed two key points:
The $300 helicopter levy is still to be paid to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA.The Terminal Navigational Charge will not be charged on helicopter landings at private offshore installations and platforms.
This clarification came after NUPRC flagged concerns on behalf of upstream stakeholders about how the levy was introduced, structured and rolled out.
The issues led the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, to set up a Ministerial Review Committee on March 9, 2026.
Following that review, NUPRC noted that TNC still applies, but only to helicopter flights that are not tied to upstream petroleum work. Examples listed include medical evacuations, private charters, and agricultural flights.
In short: pay the $300 to NAMA, skip TNC at offshore oil facilities, and expect TNC elsewhere.
