AmbuLift installed at MMIA Ikeja, Lagos, by BA. Owned and operated by SAHCO Plc
Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC (SAHCO) has acquired and deployed a high-capacity AmbuLift, making it the only aviation ground handling company in Nigeria to own and operate the specialized 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.
AmbuLift, is an hydraulic lifting system that raises the enclosed cabin to aircraft-door level, enables safe transfers, particularly at remote stands or where passenger boarding bridges are unavailable.
A media statement by Sahco Plc says, Ambulift acquisition is a corollary to earlier investment in Evac-Chairs, which facilitates the safe embarkation and disembarkation of passengers with reduced mobility on steps, where specialized assistance is required.
According to the statement, SAHCO’s premium customer, British Airways, provided guidance throughout the delivery, installation and deployment of AmbuLift to ensure operational standards are aligned with global best practices and the expectations of international airlines.
Speaking on the development, SAHCO’s Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, said: “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’s Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, said the investment reflects the Company’s people-first approach to service delivery and its commitment to international best practices.
Mrs Aboderin enthused, “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.
Prior to deployment, Expavia Aviation Consultants, a UK-based aviation outfit, provided project advisory and coordination support for the testing, commissioning, certification and training program. Also, Ergon Training Center, a European GSE specialist, delivered theoretical and practical training, technical inspections and functional checks at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Following the training program, SAHCO designated AmbuLift operators achieved certification in accordance with IATA AHM 1110 RMP 14m standards. These interventions the company said reinforced SAHCO’s focus on ensuring that its equipment is not only modern and fit for purpose, but also operated and maintained in line with the required safety and operational standards.
The AmbuLift complements SAHCO comprehensive aviation support services, including Passenger Handling, Baggage Handling, Ramp Handling, Cargo Handling, Aviation Security Services and Premium Lounge Services.
SAHCO pledged to continue investing in modern equipment, technology, infrastructure and people to strengthen safety, improve operational efficiency and deliver superior experiences to airlines and passengers across its operations making it the handling company of choice.
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