Reduce charges of local carriers, LAAC members urge government

The League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) has urged government agencies to reduce charges between 50 percent and 65 percent to local carriers in order to empower the Nigerian carriers to favourably compete with foreign airlines.

These charges, which range from PSC, TSC, Navigation, Landing, Parking, FIRS, VAT, etc, have been identified as hindrances to empowerment of local airlines in Nigeria.

Speaking during a seminar organised by LAAC, Muneer Bankole, CEO, Med-View Airline, who was represented by Ityodugh Emmanuel, said the price of fuel should be considerably reduced and to ensure the availability of the product all-year-round.

According to him, “The policy of multiple entry policy has to be reviewed. Any foreign airline seeking multiple entry ports must partner with a local airline before permission is granted.”

He reiterated that 100 percent waiver on importation of aircraft spare parts for all local airlines are implemented; adding that access to one digit loan for airlines should be encouraged by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) with favourable repayment plan.

Moreover, the government can provide equipment to the local airline as support rather than giving out funds.

“All domestic airports should be improved and secured against stow-always, animal invasion and proper navigational aids and lighting system,” Emmanuel said.

He also noted that Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) should be equipped to handle pilot’s simulators and encourage technocrats to equip hangers to carry out C checks in Nigeria.

 

Ifeoma Okeke