Ken Okeke
Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has demonstrated capacity in aviation handling which is evident from its overall performance.
The company has also consolidated its reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost ground handling companies, achieving a notable blend of commercial growth, operational safety milestones, and industry recognition throughout 2025.
In a statement by the company’s publicist, Vanessa Uansohia, SAHCO highlighted its success in expanding its client base, onboarding both domestic and international airlines over the past year.
The company’s new airline partners include major regional and international carriers such as Ethiopian Airlines, Air Tanzania, and Air Algérie. On the domestic front, ValueJet Airlines and United Nigeria Airlines extended their regional operations under SAHCO’s handling services, while Pioneer Airlines, Binani Airlines, and ExeJet/Enugu Air also commenced partnerships with the company.
SAHCO also broadened its international footprint by managing Air Peace’s long-haul operations to Antigua and Barbados, reinforcing its capability to support complex global routes.
Beyond growth in client numbers, the company emphasized its commitment to safety and quality assurance. In 2025, SAHCO successfully renewed its International Air Transport Association (IATA) Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification—a globally recognised benchmark for operational safety in the ground handling sector.
The company also confirmed that its Regulated Agent certification remains valid until 2027, demonstrating continued compliance with international aviation security standards. Additional certifications renewed last year include the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON) accreditation and its Quality Management System certification, both reflecting a sustained focus on structured processes, risk management, and a strong safety culture.
Human capital development remained a key priority in 2025. SAHCO’s Training School Authorisation was renewed, allowing the company to continue equipping aviation professionals with industry-standard skills. Plans are underway to expand the training school and enhance its curriculum in 2026, aligning with global best practices and evolving industry requirements.
The company’s achievements in 2025 also garnered recognition from numerous local and international bodies. SAHCO received the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Safety Excellence Award and the Aircraft Handling Service Achievement Award from the Nigerian Aviation Ground Handling Association. It was also named Aviation Service Provider of the Year by the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology and Best Ground Support Service Company of the Year at the Nigeria International Air Show. Additionally, IATA awarded SAHCO the Ground Support Equipment Certification of Recognition.
On the international stage, British Airways acknowledged SAHCO’s performance with a Bronze Award for its Abuja station and a Gold Award for its Lagos station, highlighting exceptional punctuality and safety across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific regions.
Looking ahead, SAHCO outlined a growth-focused strategy for 2026 aimed at operational excellence, revenue expansion, and business diversification. Key priorities include expanding cargo handling services, strengthening partnerships with state-owned airports, pursuing additional certifications, and deepening engagement with airline partners across markets.
These initiatives form part of the company’s 4Ps Strategy for 2026—People, Process, Performance, and Platform—designed to cultivate a skilled workforce, standardize operations, leverage data-driven performance management, and develop an integrated digital and operational platform.
With a combination of strong commercial performance, a robust safety record, and consistent recognition from peers, SAHCO appears poised to continue leading Nigeria’s ground handling sector in the years ahead.