Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has launched a pilot programme with the acquisition of the EVAC+CHAIR emergency evacuation chair, becoming the first aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to deploy the specialised mobility equipment for passengers with reduced mobility.
The company said the investment is aimed at enhancing safety, accessibility and operational efficiency by providing safe, dignified and seamless assistance to passengers with mobility challenges during aircraft boarding, disembarkation and emergency situations.
Head of Corporate Communications, SAHCO, Mrs Adetola Vanessa Uansohia, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that the acquisition reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation, inclusive service delivery and adherence to international best practices in ground handling operations.
The EVAC+CHAIR, recognised globally as one of the leading stairway evacuation chairs since 1982, is designed to safely move passengers with reduced mobility on stairways using a gravity and friction control system that minimises the need for heavy lifting.
Equipped with secure harnesses, durable rubber tracks and an ergonomic design, the equipment enables trained personnel to evacuate or assist passengers safely while reducing physical strain on operators.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of SAHCO, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, CON, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Adenike Aboderin, said the investment reflects the company’s determination to deliver world-class services that meet the needs of every passenger.
“At SAHCO, we believe that air travel should be accessible, safe and comfortable for everyone. This investment demonstrates our commitment to inclusive service delivery by ensuring that passengers with reduced mobility receive the highest level of care, dignity and professional assistance.
“We continuously invest in modern equipment and innovative solutions that improve safety, operational efficiency and customer experience.”
Aboderin added that the acquisition further strengthens SAHCO’s position as the preferred ground handling partner for airlines operating into Nigeria, stressing that the company remains committed to maintaining international best practices across all aspects of its operations.
She recalled that in 2025, SAHCO became the first aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to acquire the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X, an advanced Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) system widely recognised by the United States Transportation Security Administration for its enhanced explosives and narcotics detection capabilities.
According to the statement, SAHCO has continued to invest in modern ground support equipment, advanced technology, staff development and internationally recognised safety standards to improve passenger experience, boost aircraft turnaround time and deliver efficient, reliable and safe ground handling services to airline partners.
The company also noted that its operations span all commercially operated airports in Nigeria, giving airlines a consistent standard of safety, operational excellence and customer service as they expand their route networks across the country.
