By Seun Ibiyemi
Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has strengthened its passenger accessibility services with the acquisition and deployment of a high-capacity AmbuLift, becoming the only aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to own and operate the specialised equipment.
The AmbuLift is designed to provide safe, dignified and efficient embarkation and disembarkation assistance to Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM), including wheelchair users and passengers requiring stretcher support.
Its hydraulic lifting system raises an enclosed cabin to aircraft-door level, enabling passengers requiring additional assistance to be safely transferred between the aircraft and the ground, particularly at remote stands or locations without passenger boarding bridges.
The latest investment builds on SAHCO’s earlier acquisition of Evac-Chairs, which facilitate the safe movement of passengers with reduced mobility on aircraft steps where specialised assistance is required.
According to the company, the AmbuLift and Evac-Chairs form part of its deliberate investment in improving passenger safety, accessibility and the overall experience of travellers requiring additional assistance.
SAHCO’s premium customer, British Airways, also provided guidance during the AmbuLift acquisition and deployment process to ensure that operational procedures and standards align with global best practices and the expectations of international airlines.
Speaking on the development, SAHCO Chairman, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, CON, said the acquisition would enable the company to provide more appropriate assistance to passengers with reduced mobility.
“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.”
SAHCO Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Adenike Aboderin, said the investment reflected the company’s people-first approach to service delivery and commitment to international standards.
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She described the AmbuLift as a significant addition to SAHCO’s operations, stressing that the equipment would enhance the company’s ability to provide safe, dignified and professional services to passengers requiring additional assistance.
“Our investment in both the AmbuLift and Evac-Chairs reflects our deliberate approach to strengthening our PRM handling capabilities,” Aboderin said.
Ahead of the AmbuLift’s deployment, Expavia Aviation Consultants, a UK-based aviation consultancy, provided project advisory and coordination support covering testing, commissioning, certification and training.
Ergon Training Center, a European ground support equipment specialist, also conducted theoretical and practical training, technical inspections and functional checks at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Following the training programme, SAHCO’s designated AmbuLift operators obtained certification in accordance with IATA AHM 1110 RMP 14m standards.
The company said the measures were designed to ensure that the equipment is not only modern and fit for purpose but also operated and maintained in line with required safety and operational standards.
The AmbuLift complements SAHCO’s range of aviation support services, including Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling, Aviation Security Services and Premium Lounge Services.
The company said it would continue investing in modern equipment, technology, infrastructure and human capital to strengthen safety, improve operational efficiency and enhance the experience of airlines and passengers across its operations.
