SAHCO Achieves Global Information Security Laurels, Setting New Standard for Aviation Support Services
Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC has reinforced its standing as a technology-driven aviation services provider after securing the internationally acclaimed ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for Information Security Management Systems, a development widely viewed as a landmark for operational integrity and data protection within the sector.
The certification, recognised worldwide as the foremost benchmark for information-security governance, confirms that the company has successfully implemented a comprehensive framework designed to identify cyber risks, safeguard sensitive information and maintain operational continuity even in the face of evolving digital threats.
With this accomplishment, it becomes the only ground handling firm in Nigeria to attain the distinction and joins a select circle of aviation service providers across Africa that meet the rigorous international standard.
Industry specialists note that the relevance of such recognition has grown significantly as aviation systems become increasingly digitised.
Ground handling operations now rely heavily on integrated software platforms for flight coordination, passenger processing, cargo tracking, safety management and regulatory reporting. This reliance on technology means that strong cybersecurity architecture is no longer optional but essential to safe and reliable aviation activity.
The company’s certification followed a thorough evaluation by an internationally accredited certification body, which conducted detailed audits of its policies, procedures, technical controls and organisational practices.
The assessment confirmed that the firm had satisfied all requirements necessary to demonstrate consistent protection of data belonging to airlines, customers, regulators and business partners.
According to Executive Director Dr Babatunde Afolabi, the milestone reflects a corporate philosophy that treats information security as a shared responsibility across every department.
He explained that employees undergo continuous training, while strict internal protocols and monitoring systems ensure that potential vulnerabilities are identified early and addressed promptly. This collective approach, he added, helps sustain a proactive culture that supports safe and dependable aviation operations.
The certification applies to a wide range of operational areas, including cargo-handling systems, customer-information management platforms, mission-critical operational infrastructure and key corporate support services.
Implementation involved extensive risk assessments, structured incident-response planning, installation of layered security safeguards, business-continuity strategies and ongoing monitoring aligned with global best practice.
Aviation analysts say the recognition significantly enhances the organisation’s reputation among international carriers, many of which require ground handling partners to demonstrate internationally validated security standards before entering commercial agreements.
In a global industry where data moves rapidly across borders, such credentials serve as proof of reliability and compliance.
The company already holds multiple certifications covering safety, quality assurance, environmental management and operational standards, underscoring its long-standing commitment to excellence and regulatory compliance.
Observers believe the addition of ISO/IEC 27001:2022 further strengthens its profile as one of the continent’s most technically advanced aviation support providers.
Beyond corporate prestige, stakeholders argue that the achievement could influence broader industry practices. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, aviation authorities and airline operators are expected to place greater emphasis on partners capable of demonstrating internationally recognised information-security competence.
With its latest certification, the organisation has effectively positioned itself within an elite global league of ground handling providers operating under certified information-security management systems.
Analysts suggest that this step not only elevates its competitive advantage but also sets a new performance benchmark that could inspire similar investments in cybersecurity resilience across the African aviation landscape.
