NAMA suspends planned 800% navigational charges hike | Read Why
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has suspended its planned 800% increase in navigational charges.
According to the Agency’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Abdullahi Musa on Monday, the suspension was directed by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo over “current economic challenges faced by Nigerians”.
The statement reads in part, “The Nigerian Airspace Management agency would continue to engage the airlines, who have been responding to the prevailing economic situation since 2008 without taking NAMA into consideration, which is supposed to be a cost recovery agency in line with global practices.
“The directive from the minister and the subsequent suspension of the planned increase underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of Nigerian citizens and stakeholders in the aviation sector.
“The suspension of the fee increase is a testament to the government’s responsiveness to public concerns and its commitment to balancing economic sustainability with the needs of its citizens.”
The airspace management agency had on Friday, July 26, proposed an increase in its fees to sustain its operations and ensure the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s airspace.
The new unit rate for en-route was set to increase to ₦18,000 from ₦2,000 per flight while the minimum charge for terminal navigation charge was to rise to ₦54,000 from ₦6,000 per flight with effect from September 1, 2024.
