SAHCO buys EVAC+CHAIR to widen Nigerian ground handling lead
SAHCO is deploying specialized evacuation chairs to improve operational efficiency and cement its dominance in Nigeria's ground handling market.
Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has introduced the EVAC+CHAIR to its Nigerian operations, making it the country’s only ground handler to offer the stairway evacuation technology. Recognised globally since 1982, the equipment uses a gravity and friction control system with secure harnesses and rubber tracks. This allows trained staff to move passengers with reduced mobility without heavy lifting, directly improving aircraft turnaround times.
For investors, the acquisition is a tangible example of SAHCO’s ongoing capital expenditure strategy aimed at defending its market share in a competitive sector. By streamlining the boarding, disembarkation and emergency evacuation processes, the company is removing operational bottlenecks. This infrastructure upgrade positions SAHCO as the default partner for international airlines that must meet strict global accessibility and safety compliance standards.
The move forms part of a broader push to modernise operations. Speaking on behalf of Chairman and Managing Director/CEO Taiwo Afolabi, Mrs Adenike Aboderin said: "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."
Aboderin added: "We continuously invest in modern equipment and innovative solutions that improve safety, operational efficiency and customer experience." This hardware rollout follows a separate 2025 investment in the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X. The Explosive Trace Detection technology, recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration, features an optimised library to identify explosives and narcotics.
Together, these targeted equipment purchases underscore a deliberate strategy to raise operational barriers for local rivals. Securing long-term airline contracts in Nigeria hinges heavily on the ability to guarantee seamless, internationally compliant ground operations. SAHCO is betting that continuous investment in specialised equipment will protect its status as the market's preferred handler.
