Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has strengthened passenger safety and accessibility with the acquisition of EVAC+CHAIR emergency evacuation chairs, becoming the first ground handling company in Nigeria to introduce the specialised mobility equipment for passengers with reduced mobility.
The investment marked another milestone in SAHCO’s drive to enhance safety, accessibility and inclusive service delivery, ensuring that passengers with mobility challenges receive safe, dignified and efficient assistance during aircraft boarding, disembarkation and emergency situations.
Globally recognised as the world’s leading stairway evacuation chair since 1982, the EVAC+CHAIR is designed to transport passengers safely up and down stairways using an advanced gravity and friction control system. The technology eliminates the need for heavy lifting, reduces physical strain on operators and provides a smoother, safer experience for passengers.
Equipped with secure safety harnesses, durable rubber track systems and an ergonomic design, the chairs enable trained personnel to assist passengers who are unable to move independently, significantly improving emergency preparedness and overall passenger care.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, described the acquisition as another demonstration of the company’s commitment to delivering world-class services that meet the needs of every traveller.
“At SAHCO, we believe air travel should be accessible, safe and comfortable for everyone. This investment reflects our commitment to inclusive service delivery by ensuring that passengers with reduced mobility receive the highest level of care, dignity and professional assistance.
“We will continue to invest in modern equipment and innovative solutions that enhance safety, improve operational efficiency and deliver an exceptional customer experience”, she said.
According to Aboderin, the latest acquisition further strengthened SAHCO’s reputation as the preferred ground handling partner for airlines operating into Nigeria while reinforcing its commitment to global best practices across its operations.
The company has built a reputation for pioneering industry-first innovations. 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 recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The technology significantly enhances airport security by detecting a broad range of explosives and narcotics.
Through sustained investments in cutting-edge ground support equipment, advanced technology, staff development and internationally recognised safety standards, SAHCO has continued to raise the bar for operational excellence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The company said these investments not only improve aircraft turnaround times but also enhance passenger experience while delivering safe, efficient and reliable ground handling services to airline partners.
SAHCO also remains the only aviation ground handling company with operations across every commercially operated airport in Nigeria, providing airlines with a nationwide network capable of supporting route expansion while maintaining consistent standards of safety, efficiency and service delivery.
The company said its latest investment further underscored its position as Nigeria’s leading ground handling provider and a trusted partner for airlines seeking innovative, scalable and future-ready aviation support solutions.