SAHCO Reinforces Commitment to Passenger Safety and Dignity with Deployment of Specialised AmbuLift Equipment

SAHCO Reinforces Commitment to Passenger Safety and Dignity with Deployment of Specialised AmbuLift Equipment

By Prince Benson Davies

Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC, SAHCO, has taken a major step in advancing inclusive air travel in Nigeria with the acquisition and deployment of a high-capacity AmbuLift, becoming the only aviation ground handling company in the country to own and operate the specialised equipment.

The AmbuLift is specifically designed to provide safe, dignified and efficient boarding and disembarkation support for Passengers with Reduced Mobility, PRM, including wheelchair users and passengers who require stretcher assistance. Equipped with a hydraulic lifting system, the enclosed cabin is raised to aircraft door level, allowing for seamless and safe transfer of passengers, especially at remote aircraft stands and in areas where passenger boarding bridges are not available.

According to the company, the new acquisition builds on its earlier investment in Evac-Chairs, which are used to safely assist passengers with reduced mobility on aircraft steps where specialised support is needed. Both investments, SAHCO noted, demonstrate a deliberate and sustained effort to enhance PRM services, improve passenger safety and promote accessibility across its operations.

The deployment process also benefited from the guidance of one of SAHCO’s premium clients, British Airways, which provided valuable advisory support to ensure that procedures, deployment and operational standards for the AmbuLift meet global best practices and align with international airline expectations.

Commenting on the development, the Chairman of SAHCO, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, said the investment underscores the company’s resolve to respond directly to the needs of passengers with mobility challenges with professionalism and care.

“Owning and operating the AmbuLift means we can respond directly to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility rather than improvising. It gives our teams the right tool to do this sensitive work properly and gives passengers and their families confidence that they will be handled with care from the apron to the aircraft door,” Dr. Afolabi said.

Similarly, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, described the acquisition as a reflection of the company’s people-first philosophy and commitment to international standards.

“The AmbuLift is a significant addition to our operations and demonstrates our commitment to providing safe, dignified and professional services to every passenger, particularly those requiring additional assistance. Our investment in both the AmbuLift and Evac-Chairs reflects our deliberate approach to strengthening our PRM handling capabilities,” she said.

Prior to deployment, the company engaged Expavia Aviation Consultants, a United Kingdom-based aviation consultancy, to provide project advisory and coordination support for testing, commissioning, certification and training. In addition, Ergon Training Center, a European Ground Support Equipment specialist, conducted theoretical and practical training, technical inspections and functional checks at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

At the end of the training programme, SAHCO’s designated AmbuLift operators were certified in line with IATA AHM 1110 RMP 14m standards, reinforcing the company’s focus on ensuring that modern equipment is not only available but also operated and maintained in accordance with required safety and operational standards.

The AmbuLift complements SAHCO’s broad portfolio of aviation support services, which includes Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling, Aviation Security Services and Premium Lounge Services.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in modern equipment, technology, infrastructure and personnel to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency and deliver superior experiences to airlines and passengers across all its stations, maintaining its position as the handling company of choice.