NUPRC Clarifies $300 Helicopter Levy, Exempts Offshore Oil Platforms From Terminal Charge

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has clarified the application of the US$300 Helicopter Levy for Air Navigational Services, putting an end to uncertainty over charges payable by upstream oil and gas operators.

In a circular signed by the Commission Chief Executive, Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, the NUPRC confirmed that the US$300 helicopter levy remains payable to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

However, the Commission stated that the Terminal Navigational Charge (TNC) does not apply to helicopter landings at private offshore facilities and petroleum platforms.

The clarification followed concerns raised by the NUPRC on behalf of stakeholders in the upstream petroleum sector over the introduction, structure and implementation of the helicopter levy.

The concerns prompted the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, to constitute a Ministerial Review Committee on March 9, 2026, to examine the issues surrounding the charges.

Following the review, the NUPRC said the TNC would continue to apply to helicopter operations outside the scope of upstream petroleum activities.

Such operations, according to the Commission, include medical evacuations, private charter services and agricultural activities.

The latest clarification is expected to provide greater certainty to oil and gas operators regarding applicable aviation charges for helicopter operations supporting upstream petroleum activities, particularly at offshore facilities and platforms.

The NUPRC urged affected operators, licensees and lessees to take note of the clarification and ensure compliance with the applicable regulatory requirements.Headline alternatives: