Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc has acquired and deployed a high-capacity AmbuLift to improve assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, reinforcing its commitment to safe, dignified and inclusive passenger handling services.
In a statement made available to The PUNCH over the weekend, SAHCO’s Head of Corporate Communications, Vanessa Uansohia, said the acquisition made the company the only aviation ground handling firm in Nigeria operating the specialised equipment.
The AmbuLift is designed to facilitate the safe and comfortable embarkation and disembarkation of passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users and those requiring stretcher support.
Recall that the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria recently bought an AmbuLift to aid the mobility of persons living with disabilities.
Uansohia said the investment builds on the company’s earlier acquisition of Evac-Chairs, which help passengers with reduced mobility navigate aircraft steps where specialised assistance is required.
She added that British Airways, one of SAHCO’s premium customers, provided valuable guidance throughout the process to ensure that the equipment’s deployment, operating procedures and standards aligned with international best practices and the expectations of global airlines.
Speaking on the development, SAHCO’s Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, said the acquisition would enable the company to provide more appropriate assistance to passengers who require additional support when boarding and leaving aircraft.
He said, “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.”
Also commenting, SAHCO’s Managing Director, Adenike Aboderin, described the investment as a reflection of the company’s people-first approach to service delivery and its 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.