The new aviation safety threshold charges for ground handling companies recently approved by the federal government is to take effect from October 1 for international carriers and January 1, 2022, for domestic operators.
This is the first adjustment to the rates since they were put in place in 1986.
Ground handling companies have over the years, decried underpayment for their services and had advocated a review of the charges.
Director-general of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Musa Nuhu, who made this known in a circular dated September 6, 2021, with the reference number: NCAA/DG/AIR/11/16/315, addressed to ‘All Airlines and Ground Handling Companies'(foreign and local), with the subject: ‘Safety Threshold Ground Handling Charges,’ explained that the new rates reflect market realities and close rank with applicable charges within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.
The circular reads: “The Authority wishes to bring to the notice of all operators and relevant stakeholders the new approved “Safety Threshold Ground Handling Charges” for all international and domestic operations.
“The new charges were approved after extensive consultative meetings with all relevant stakeholders including Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN). Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Airline Operators Committee (AOC).
“The Safety Threshold Ground Handling Charges reflect market realities and close rank will applicable charges with ECOWAS region.
“All stakeholders are invited to note that the new ground handling rates for international and domestic operations will become effective on 1st October 2021 and 1st January 2022, respectively.
“All stakeholders are directed to ensure full compliance with the safety threshold ground handling charges. Any change to these charges must be done in formal consultation with and approval of NCAA. Please be guided accordingly.”
