Passengers with reduced mobility will have greater access to safer and more dignified boarding services following Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC’s (SAHCO) acquisition of an AmbuLift. The high-capacity equipment is designed to assist wheelchair users and passengers requiring stretcher support during embarkation and disembarkation.
According to Head, Corporate Communications, SAHCO, Adetola Vanessa Uansohia, the acquisition makes SAHCO the only aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to own and operate the specialised equipment, according to the company. The AmbuLift provides an enclosed cabin that can be hydraulically raised to aircraft-door level, allowing passengers to transfer safely without relying solely on conventional boarding arrangements.
AmbuLift strengthens PRM passenger care
The equipment is particularly useful at remote aircraft stands or locations where passenger boarding bridges are unavailable. Therefore, passengers who require additional assistance can be transferred between the apron and aircraft door using equipment specifically designed for their needs.
The investment also builds on SAHCO’s earlier acquisition of Evac-Chairs. Those devices facilitate the safe embarkation and disembarkation of passengers with reduced mobility when aircraft steps require specialised assistance. Together, the two solutions expand the company’s Passenger Handling capability for passengers requiring additional support.
SAHCO said its premium customer, British Airways, provided valuable guidance during the process. The guidance helped align the AmbuLift’s deployment, procedures and operational standards with global best practices and the expectations of international airlines.
Speaking on the development, SAHCO Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, said the equipment would allow the company to respond directly to passenger needs.
“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.”
The Chairman’s comments underline the passenger-focused purpose of the investment. Rather than treating mobility assistance as an improvised service, SAHCO is positioning specialised equipment as part of its regular handling operations.
AmbuLift and Evac-Chairs expand accessibility
SAHCO Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, said the investment reflects the company’s people-first approach 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.”
Meanwhile, the company put technical and operational measures in place before deploying the equipment. Expavia Aviation Consultants, a UK-based aviation consultancy, provided project advisory and coordination support for testing, commissioning, certification and training.
Ergon Training Center, a European ground support equipment specialist, also delivered theoretical and practical training. The programme included technical inspections and functional checks at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Following the programme, designated SAHCO AmbuLift operators achieved certification in accordance with IATA AHM 1110 RMP 14m standards. IATA says its Airport Handling Manual provides industry-approved policies and standards covering ground handling activities, including passenger services and ground operations training.
The development therefore combines specialised equipment with operator training. This is significant because accessibility equipment must be properly operated and maintained to support safe passenger handling.
For passengers with reduced mobility, the practical benefit is straightforward. The AmbuLift provides a dedicated means of reaching aircraft-door level, while Evac-Chairs provide another solution where aircraft stairs are involved.
SAHCO said the AmbuLift complements its wider aviation support services, which include 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 people to strengthen safety, improve operational efficiency and enhance passenger experiences across its operations.
