By Onilede Titi Faith
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), has issued a stern warning to several oil companies, threatening to suspend their helicopter flight operations over unpaid landing and air navigation fees.
This move forms part of NAMA’s ongoing efforts to recover substantial debts owed by oil firms utilizing Nigeria’s airspace, particularly in the oil and gas sector where helicopter transport is critical.
According to agency insiders, many oil companies have failed to pay for key services including helicopter landing rights, air traffic control, and other navigation support systems.
These unpaid obligations, which have accumulated over time, are reportedly undermining NAMA’s capacity to maintain vital infrastructure and provide seamless airspace oversight.
“The failure of these companies to meet their financial obligations is affecting our operations,” a senior NAMA official disclosed. “We may have no choice but to ground flights of persistent defaulters if the situation remains unresolved.”
The potential flight ban could have major implications for oil firms, especially those relying heavily on helicopters to reach offshore oil platforms and other remote installations.
Industry experts warn that such a disruption may impact production timelines and supply chains within the sector.
NAMA emphasized that it remains committed to delivering high-quality airspace management services but expects all users to comply with their financial responsibilities.
The agency urged the defaulting companies to settle their outstanding debts without delay to avoid operational disruptions and further sanctions.
