Ground handler embarks on investment as it eyes further reach
Pakistan ground handler Shaheen Airport Services (SAPS) was at IGHC, showcasing a unique proposition under which its profits support welfare causes.
SAPS, which was established in 1982, is one of several businesses indirectly owned by the Pakistan air force through the Shaheen Foundation. Any profit these businesses make supports low-paid retirees from the air force or families of those lost in service.
“You might find we are the only ground handler across the world, all of whose profits go to welfare,” explained SAPS Executive Director and former fighter pilot Air Commodore Wasim Khan.
“We operate all over Pakistan. By virtue of having the air force DNA, we are security cleared so we can operate at all civil, military and private airfields. Anywhere an aircraft lands, we can be there.”
Strong traffic growth in Pakistan has seen SAPS increase revenue in US dollar terms 120% over the past four years and is prompting further investment.
“We are set upto operate from six international airports [in Pakistan] and then operate the odd flight from smaller airports,” Khan explained. “But there was a time in January when we were operating simultaneously from 23 airports. We were stretched thin on equipment and manpower. So, we have just embarked on a multi-year plan to get more equipment, modernise and expand internationally.”
