FG approves new aviation ground handling rates — after 35 years

The federal government has approved new aviation safety threshold charges for ground handling companies.

TheCable understands that the current rates of the ground handling companies in Nigeria had been stagnant since 1986.

Over the years, ground handling companies have lamented that they are being underpaid for the services they render and called for an adjustment of the charges.

The new charges are expected to commence from October 1, 2021, for international carriers, and January 1, 2022, for domestic operators.

Musa Nuhu, director-general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), disclosed this 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’.

NCAA said the new rates reflected market realities and close rank with applicable charges within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.

“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 circular reads.

“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.”