NAHCO Aviance Extends Ground Handling Contracts with Major International Airlines
The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (Nahco Aviance) Plc has successfully retained and extended its ground handling contracts with three prominent international carriers: Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic.
This strategic move is expected to significantly bolster the company's operations and enhance its service offerings in the aviation sector. According to a recent announcement, this extension will play a crucial role in helping NAHCO achieve its ambitious revenue target of N300 billion by the year 2029. This goal was highlighted during the recent "Facts Behind the Figures" presentation at the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), where the company outlined its growth strategy and financial objectives. In a statement released by Mr. Tayo Ajakaye, the Assistant General Manager of Corporate Communications at NAHCO, it was revealed that the handling contract with Emirates has been extended until 2029.
Meanwhile, the contract with Virgin Atlantic Airways has been renewed until 2028, and the agreement with Turkish Airlines will remain in effect until December 2029. Notably, Emirates resumed its scheduled flight operations to Nigeria in October after an 18-month hiatus, during which NAHCO was appointed to provide comprehensive ground handling services. Ajakaye emphasized that this partnership with Emirates will now be solidified for the next five years, reflecting the airline's confidence in NAHCO's capabilities. He also noted that Virgin Atlantic has consistently chosen NAHCO for its exceptional service delivery, further solidifying the relationship between the two entities.
The longstanding partnership with Turkish Airlines has also been characterized by a commitment to quality service, making NAHCO the preferred ground handling provider for the airline over the years. Commenting on these developments, Mr. Indranil Gupta, the Group Managing Director (GMD) of NAHCO Plc, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the contract extensions, describing them as positive news for both the company and its shareholders. Gupta highlighted that for 45 years, NAHCO has maintained its position as the leader in ground handling services in Nigeria and the broader West African region. He assured stakeholders that the company would continue to excel by meeting the needs of its clients and delighting its shareholders. Gupta further reiterated NAHCO's commitment to delivering outstanding service to its airline clients, leveraging the new and modern equipment that the company has been acquiring and deploying since the second quarter of 2024. He stated, “NAHCO will continue to invest in equipment and training to fulfill our obligations to our clients effectively.”
Additionally, Prince Saheed Lasisi, the Group Executive Director for Commercial & Business Development at NAHCO Plc, characterized the signing of these contracts as a significant milestone in the relationship between NAHCO and the international airlines. He remarked, “The extension of our contracts is a testament to the trust that these airlines place in us. We are thrilled with this development and are committed to exceeding their expectations, ensuring they are the most satisfied airlines operating in and out of Nigeria.” Lasisi emphasized that any airline aiming to provide top-notch service must rely on a ground handler that delivers exceptional service to maintain its competitive edge. He expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon NAHCO by these esteemed carriers, reinforcing the company's dedication to excellence in ground handling services.
