SAHCO sets record with 37-minute turnaround for Boeing 777 aircraft

By Rukaiya Maina

Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has achieved a milestone by setting a new industry record for the turnaround time of a Boeing 777 cargo aircraft.

This feat was achieved at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos, recently, where the company completed the turnaround of an Ethiopian Airlines B777 in 37 minutes, below the industry standard of 90 minutes.

During this operation, SAHCO offloaded 37 pallets, loaded new cargo, and completed all necessary tasks within the 37-minute window. This achievement was made possible by the company’s recent acquisition and deployment of new equipment, including Ground Power Units (GPUs), belt loaders, pushback tractors, air start units and baggage carts which has increased its efficiency and is attracting the attention of leading airlines in the country and foreign carriers.

“Having a turnaround time of 37 minutes for a B777 aircraft is not new. We have over the years increased our efficiency and performance, while our management has in the past few years has continued to acquire state-of-the-art equipment for our operations. Also, note that this 37mins turnaround for B777 aircraft for Ethiopian Airlines was done in a safe, speedy and efficient manner. Our staff are certified and well-trained for the job they do,” a company official said.

SAHCO was in August awarded the British Airways’ Safety and ‘Punctuality Award’ for the handling services provided to the British carrier for three consecutive quarters across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. SAHCO also enabled the Nigerian station to secure the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards—a first in the airline’s history. The company’s Abuja station was honoured with the Bronze Award in the third quarter of the year.

The British Airways’ Safety and Punctuality Award was introduced as part of the airline’s efforts to recognize and celebrate its partners who consistently deliver excellent job performance.