Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has announced the acquisition of EVAC+CHAIR emergency evacuation chairs, marking a significant enhancement in its service offerings for passengers with reduced mobility.
With this investment, SAHCO distinguishes itself as the first and only aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to deploy this specialized mobility equipment. This move further strengthens its capacity to provide safe, dignified, and efficient assistance to all passengers.
The EVAC+CHAIR, globally recognized as the leading stairway evacuation chair since 1982, is engineered to offer a secure and comfortable method for transporting passengers with reduced mobility during emergencies or when navigating stairways.
Utilizing an advanced gravity and friction control system, the chair safely ascends and descends stairs without requiring heavy lifting. This design reduces physical strain on operators while ensuring maximum safety and comfort for passengers.
Equipped with secure harnesses, durable rubber track systems, and an ergonomic design, the EVAC+CHAIR enables trained personnel to safely assist passengers unable to move independently. This makes aircraft boarding, disembarkation, and emergency evacuation processes more efficient and seamless.
This acquisition underscores SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every passenger, irrespective of physical ability or mobility challenges, receives safe, dignified, and world-class ground handling services.
Speaking on this development on behalf of Taiwo Afolabi, the Chairman and Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin stated, “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.”
Mrs. Aboderin added that this acquisition further solidifies SAHCO’s reputation as the preferred ground handling partner for airlines operating into Nigeria. She noted the company’s ongoing commitment to maintaining international best practices across all areas of its operations.
Notably, in 2025, SAHCO also became the first and only Aviation Ground Handling Company in Nigeria to acquire the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X. This represents the latest advancement in Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) technology.
The Itemiser 5X is widely recognized and recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for its superior security screening capabilities. It features an optimized detection library capable of identifying a broad spectrum of explosives and narcotics.
As Nigeria’s leading aviation ground handling company, SAHCO consistently sets industry benchmarks through strategic investments in state-of-the-art ground support equipment, advanced technology, continuous staff development, and internationally recognized safety standards.
The company 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 its position as Nigeria’s preferred Aviation Ground Handling company, delivering exceptional service, operational excellence, and innovative solutions that set the benchmark for the aviation industry.
