SAHCO becomes first Nigerian ground handler to deploy EVAC+CHAIR for passengers with reduced mobility

Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has acquired the EVAC+CHAIR emergency evacuation chairs for persons with reduced mobility.

With this latest investment, SAHCO becomes the first and only aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to deploy this specialised mobility equipment, further enhancing its ability to provide safe, dignified, and efficient assistance to passengers with reduced mobility.

The EVAC+CHAIR, recognised globally as the world’s leading stairway evacuation chair since 1982, is specially designed to provide a safe and comfortable means of moving passengers with reduced mobility during emergencies or when navigating stairways.

Using an advanced gravity and friction control system, the chair safely ascends and descends stairs without the need for heavy lifting, reducing physical strain on operators while ensuring maximum safety and comfort for passengers.

With secure harnesses, durable rubber track systems and ergonomic design, the equipment enables trained personnel to safely assist passengers who are unable to move independently, making aircraft boarding, disembarkation and emergency evacuation more efficient and seamless.

The acquisition underscores SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every passenger, regardless of physical ability or mobility challenges, receives safe, dignified and world-class ground handling services.

Speaking on the development on behalf of Taiwo Afolabi, the Chairman and Managing Director/CEO, Mrs Adenike Aboderin, said the investment reflects the company’s commitment to delivering world-class services that cater to 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.”

She added that the acquisition further strengthens SAHCO’s reputation as the preferred ground handling partner for airlines operating into Nigeria, noting that the company remains committed to maintaining international best practices across all areas of its operations.

If you recall, in 2025, SAHCO also became the first and only Aviation Ground Handling Company in Nigeria to acquire the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X, the latest advancement in Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) technology.

The Itemiser 5X is widely recognised and recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for its superior security screening capabilities. The Itemiser 5X represents a major advancement in security screening, featuring an optimised detection library that can identify a wide range of explosives and narcotics.

As Nigeria’s leading aviation ground handling company, SAHCO has consistently set the benchmark for excellence through strategic investments in state-of-the-art ground support equipment, advanced technology, continuous staff development, and internationally recognised safety standards.

The company says it remains at the forefront of the industry by introducing innovative solutions that enhance the passenger experience while delivering efficient, reliable, and safe ground handling services. These investments not only improve aircraft turnaround times but also ensure seamless, world-class operations for its airline partners.

With this latest investment, SAHCO once again demonstrates why it remains Nigeria’s favourite Aviation Ground Handling company, delivering exceptional service, operational excellence and innovative solutions that set the benchmark for the aviation industry.