Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC (SAHCO) has secured the prestigious ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Information Security Management System ISMS certification, reinforcing its leadership in secure aviation services. The ISMS certification positions SAHCO as the only aviation ground handling company in Nigeria, and one of the few in Africa, to attain this globally recognised standard. This milestone underscores the company’s strategic focus on cybersecurity, operational integrity and global best practice.
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 represents the international benchmark for information security management. It provides a structured framework for identifying risks, protecting sensitive data and ensuring confidentiality, integrity and availability of information. In today’s technology-driven aviation ecosystem, ISMS certification has become essential. Ground handling operations rely heavily on digital systems that manage passenger processing, cargo documentation and airline communications.
The ISMS certification followed a rigorous audit conducted by a globally accredited certification body. During the assessment, SAHCO demonstrated full compliance with stringent international requirements. The process examined its risk management structure, internal controls and incident response capabilities. Therefore, achieving ISMS certification reflects not only compliance but also resilience against evolving cyber threats.
In aviation ground handling, information security is directly linked to safety and reliability. Operational systems coordinate aircraft turnaround, cargo logistics and customer data management. Any vulnerability can disrupt flight schedules or compromise regulatory communication. However, through its ISMS certification, SAHCO has shown that it can proactively detect threats, implement preventive controls and maintain business continuity under pressure.
How ISMS Certification Strengthens SAHCO’s Operations
The ISMS certification covers core operational areas, including cargo handling systems, customer information management platforms and corporate support services. Implementation required comprehensive risk assessments and the deployment of layered security controls. In addition, staff awareness programmes were conducted to ensure that information protection remains a shared responsibility across the organisation.
Executive Director, Dr Babatunde Afolabi, emphasised that information security extends beyond technology systems. He explained that every employee contributes to safeguarding customer and airline partner data. Meanwhile, continuous monitoring mechanisms and structured internal audits ensure that the ISMS certification framework remains active and effective. This approach aligns with international best practices promoted by bodies such as the International Air Transport Association.
SAHCO’s ISMS certification complements its existing portfolio of global recognitions. These include ISAGO, RA3, Environmental Management System, Quality Management System and Safety Management System standards. Consequently, the company continues to strengthen its compliance architecture across safety, quality and environmental performance. The addition of ISMS certification further integrates digital security into its operational backbone.
The aviation sector is increasingly targeted by sophisticated cyber threats. Airlines, ground handlers and regulators exchange vast volumes of operational and passenger data daily. Therefore, maintaining a certified information security framework enhances stakeholder confidence. It assures airline partners, regulators and customers that critical information is protected in accordance with global standards recognised by institutions such as the International Civil Aviation Organization.
This ISMS certification achievement positions SAHCO among an elite group of aviation ground handling providers operating under internationally certified information security systems. It also reinforces Nigeria’s growing capacity to meet global compliance expectations within the aviation industry. As digital transformation accelerates, secure data management will remain central to operational excellence.
With the ISMS certification now firmly embedded within its corporate governance framework, SAHCO has raised the benchmark for aviation ground handling security in Africa. The company’s commitment to continual improvement ensures that its information security architecture evolves alongside emerging risks. Ultimately, this milestone signals a new era of secure, resilient and future-ready aviation ground handling operations in Nigeria.
