Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC has taken a significant step towards deepening operational efficiency and strengthening safety standards with the acquisition of ultra-modern Ground Support Equipment (GSE) to boost aircraft handling operations across Nigeria.
The aviation ground handling giant announced that the newly acquired equipment forms part of its deliberate and sustained investment in modern technology aimed at improving service delivery, reducing aircraft turnaround time, and reinforcing its position as a market leader within the aviation support sector.
Leading the latest upgrade is a state-of-the-art pushback tractor manufactured by Goldhofer, a globally respected German producer of aviation support equipment. The Goldhofer F300, powered by a robust diesel engine, is specifically engineered to service most wide-body aircraft types.
Designed with heavy-duty materials capable of withstanding demanding operational terrain, the equipment has already been deployed to one of SAHCO’s major hub stations.
Industry observers note that pushback tractors are vital to airport ramp operations, as they safely manoeuvre aircraft from parking positions to taxiways, ensuring seamless movement within busy airport environments.
The introduction of the F300 is therefore expected to enhance ramp precision, reduce operational delays, and improve overall aircraft scheduling efficiency.
In addition to the pushback tractor, SAHCO has procured five advanced Ground Power Units manufactured by Guinault, a leading French aviation equipment manufacturer with global recognition. Each unit delivers 45kVA at 115 volts and 115 at 28VDC, enabling the provision of stable and reliable electrical power to aircraft systems while on ground.
The GPUs are powered by fuel-efficient gasoline engines and are constructed for durability and ease of mobility, making them well suited to high-traffic airport aprons. Their compact configuration is designed to optimise fuel consumption without compromising performance, while their rugged build ensures longevity even under intensive operational use.
The company disclosed that the GPUs are capable of supporting most Class A aircraft as well as selected Class B aircraft, thereby broadening the scope of aircraft types that can be efficiently serviced within its network.
Aviation experts emphasise that reliable ground power systems are crucial for maintaining aircraft systems during boarding, cleaning, catering, and maintenance procedures. By deploying modern GPUs, handlers can help airlines lower auxiliary power unit usage, reduce fuel burn, and limit environmental emissions – all of which align with global sustainability goals within the aviation industry.
SAHCO reiterated that the acquisition underscores its commitment to continuous improvement, safety enhancement, and technological advancement. As the only ground handling company with operational presence across all commercially operated airports in Nigeria, the firm continues to distinguish itself through consistent equipment upgrades and service innovation.
The latest investment further cements SAHCO’s standing as a dominant player in Africa’s aviation ground handling landscape, driven by excellence, reliability, and customer-centric solutions.
SAHCO PLC provides a comprehensive range of aviation ground handling services, including passenger handling, ramp operations, cargo services, aircraft cleaning, crew transportation, and other aviation support solutions across Nigeria’s aviation network.
The company maintains that sustained investment in cutting-edge equipment remains central to its strategy of delivering world-class services to airline partners and stakeholders nationwide.
About The Author
