The Federal Government on Wednesday cleared all helicopter operators duly certified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to commence operations in and out of Abuja.
It would be recalled that the National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno had earlier banned helicopter operations from Kaduna to Abuja following the closure of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) and diversion of flights to Kaduna Airport.
The ban did not however go down well with the operators who had envisaged a business boom through the Kaduna-Abuja helicopter shuttle services which they had earlier advertised.
Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika’s intervention got the NSA to rescind the decision.
The NCAA confirmed today that a letter has since been dispatched to all concerned operators.
Spokesman of the regulatory authority, Sam Adurogboye said, “The restriction has been rescinded and all operators are hereby enjoined to embark on their regular operations as approved.”
The NCAA urged the operators to carry out their operations in line with Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
The helicopter service is expected to compliment the train and bus services for those who can afford it.
Findings by our correspondent show that helicopter service from Kaduna to Abuja goes between N40, 000 to N60,000.
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