The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has announced a dramatic increase in its navigational charges, raising rates by 800% for both local and international flights.
The new charges, which come into effect immediately, will see en-route navigational fees rise from N2,000 for local flights and N6,000 for international flights to N18,000 and N54,000 per flight, respectively.
NAMA also significantly increased the cost of extending operating hours at sunset airports, from N50,000 to N450,000 per extension.
This adjustment is aimed at covering the rising costs of diesel and other logistical expenses associated with these extensions.
The decision has sparked concerns among travellers and industry stakeholders, who fear that these hikes will lead to higher airfares for both domestic and international routes.
The move follows a recent meeting between NAMA, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and airline operators, which addressed the need to update what was described as outdated Terminal Enroute Navigational Charges (TNS).
NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr. Umar Ahmed Farouk defended the increases during a presentation at the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) conference in Lagos.
Farouk emphasized that the hike was necessary to address the agency’s rising costs and to maintain effective airspace management and safety.
“Our operations are funded entirely through statutory fees,” Farouk explained. “Without these funds, NAMA cannot effectively ensure airspace safety. Our current charges have remained unchanged since June 2008, while the costs of providing these services have escalated.”
In 2023 alone, NAMA incurred approximately N21 billion in personnel costs, over N12 billion in capital expenses, and more than N10 billion in overheads.
Despite this, the agency has been charging significantly lower fees compared to the soaring cost of air travel.
Farouk noted that while the cost of a domestic flight ticket has surged to between N150,000 and N200,000, NAMA’s charges have remained static.
He argued that the new rates reflect the need to recover costs and support infrastructure improvements, citing that many costs have increased by over 1,000% in recent years.
The increase has been met with criticism from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), who argue that the burden of multiple taxation and foreign exchange instability is already straining their operations. AON spokesperson Prof. Obiora Okonkwo warned that the new charges would likely exacerbate the rising cost of airline tickets.
Despite these concerns, Farouk emphasized that the fee adjustments are in line with international best practices and are crucial for sustaining the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s airspace.
He also highlighted NAMA’s ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and service delivery through investments in training and technology.
The new fees are set to take effect immediately, and travellers and airlines alike will need to adjust to the new financial landscape in Nigerian aviation.
