SAHCO unveils emergency evacuation chairs

Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has strengthened its position as a leader in Nigeria’s aviation sector with the acquisition of EVAC+CHAIR emergency evacuation equipment, becoming the first and only ground handling company in the country to deploy the specialised mobility technology.

This was disclosed in a statement made available to BusinessDay by Head, Corporate Communications, Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO), Adetola Vanessa.

The company said that the investment reinforces its commitment to innovation, safety and inclusive service delivery for passengers with reduced mobility across Nigeria’s airports.

The EVAC+CHAIR, regarded globally as the leading stairway evacuation chair since its introduction in 1982, is designed to provide safe and comfortable movement for passengers with mobility challenges during emergencies and while navigating stairways.

Equipped with advanced gravity and friction control technology, the chair enables trained personnel to move passengers safely up and down staircases without heavy lifting, reducing physical strain on operators while ensuring passenger safety and comfort.

The equipment also features secure harnesses, durable rubber track systems and ergonomic designs aimed at improving aircraft boarding, disembarkation and emergency evacuation procedures.

Speaking on the development on behalf of the Chairman of SAHCO, Taiwo Afolabi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Adenike Aboderin, said the acquisition underscores the company’s resolve to provide world-class services that cater to the needs of all passengers.

“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,” she said.

Aboderin added that the company would continue to invest in modern equipment and innovative solutions to improve safety, operational efficiency and customer experience.

She noted that the latest acquisition further strengthens SAHCO’s reputation as the preferred ground handling partner for airlines operating in Nigeria and reflects its commitment to maintaining international best practices across its operations.

The company recalled that in 2025, it became the first aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to acquire the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X, an advanced Explosive Trace Detection system widely recommended by the United States Transportation Security Administration for its enhanced security screening capabilities.

According to SAHCO, the Itemiser 5X can detect a broad range of explosives and narcotics, representing a significant improvement in aviation security screening technology.

As Nigeria’s leading aviation ground handling company, SAHCO said it has continued to set industry standards through strategic investments in cutting-edge ground support equipment, technology, workforce development and globally recognised safety practices.

The company stated that these investments have improved aircraft turnaround times and enhanced operational efficiency for airline partners while ensuring seamless service delivery across its nationwide network.

SAHCO remains the only aviation ground handling company with operations in all commercially active airports in Nigeria, providing airlines with the flexibility to expand their route networks while maintaining consistent service standards.