Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has expanded its services for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) with the acquisition of a specialised AmbuLift, building on its deployment of Evac+Chair emergency evacuation equipment at Nigerian airports.
The company said the latest investment makes it the only aviation ground-handling company in Nigeria to own and operate an AmbuLift, strengthening its capacity to provide safe, dignified and efficient assistance to passengers who require additional support during embarkation, disembarkation and emergency situations.
The AmbuLift is designed to transport wheelchair users, stretcher-bound passengers and others with reduced mobility between the ground and aircraft door. Its hydraulic lifting system raises an enclosed passenger cabin to aircraft-door level, enabling transfers where passenger boarding bridges are unavailable, particularly at remote aircraft stands.
The new equipment complements SAHCO’s deployment of EVAC+CHAIR evacuation chairs, which are designed to safely move passengers with reduced mobility up and down aircraft stairs during emergencies or when navigating stairways.
The Evac-Chairs use a gravity and friction control system that allows operators to move passengers without heavy lifting, reducing physical strain while supporting passenger safety and comfort.
Speaking on the investment, SAHCO Chairman, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, said dedicated equipment would enable the company to provide more appropriate assistance to passengers requiring specialised support.
“Owning and operating the AmbuLift means we can respond directly to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility rather than improvising,” Afolabi said, adding that the equipment would give staff the appropriate tools to provide the service while giving passengers and their families greater confidence.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of SAHCO, Mrs Adenike Aboderin, said the acquisition reflected the company’s focus on inclusive and customer-centred service delivery.
She said the AmbuLift, together with the Evac-Chairs, formed part of a deliberate effort to strengthen SAHCO’s PRM handling capabilities and improve safety, operational efficiency and passenger experience.
“At SAHCO, we believe that air travel should be accessible, safe and comfortable for everyone,” Aboderin said.
British Airways, one of SAHCO’s major airline clients, provided operational input during the procurement and integration of the AmbuLift, helping to align the equipment, procedures and operating protocols with international aviation practices.
SAHCO also engaged UK-based Expavia Aviation Consultants to provide project advisory, testing, commissioning and regulatory compliance support for the AmbuLift.
European ground-support equipment specialist Ergon Training Centre subsequently conducted theoretical and practical training, technical inspections and functional testing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
SAHCO said its designated operators completed certification under IATA AHM 1110 RMP 14m standards, covering the operation and maintenance of the specialised equipment.
The investment adds to SAHCO’s existing range of airport services, including passenger, ramp, baggage and cargo handling, aviation security and premium lounge operations.
The company said continued investment in specialised ground-support equipment and personnel was aimed at improving accessibility and ensuring passengers requiring additional assistance receive professional support throughout their airport journey.
