Neo Space Group (NSG) and Saudia have announced the first line-fit activation of NSG Skywaves in-flight connectivity aboard Saudia’s inaugural Airbus A321XLR, marking a major milestone in Saudi Arabia’s aviation and space integration.
Powered by NSG Skywaves and the SES Open Orbits multi-orbit
satellite network, the system combines GEO and MEO capabilities to deliver
low-latency, high-speed connectivity across key international routes.
Recent tests showed speeds of up to 200 Mbps per aircraft,
enabling seamless streaming, browsing, messaging and other digital services for
passengers.
The deployment integrates Airbus HBCplus line-fit technology
and reflects coordination between NSG, Saudia, Airbus, SES and other partners
to ensure connectivity is available from aircraft entry into service.
NSG said the milestone demonstrates its growing role as a
global in-flight connectivity provider and supports its broader strategy to
expand next-generation connectivity solutions across regional and international
airline fleets.
Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia,
said: “Connectivity is an essential part of modern travel, and providing
high-speed internet on our new A321XLR is a key element of the new Saudia
experience. It enables our guests to stay connected, remain entertained, and
enjoy a more engaging and seamless onboard journey. It also enables a new
generation of connected onboard experiences, allowing guests to enjoy live
television and real-time content in ways that were previously not possible,
bringing the journey closer than ever to the world beyond the aircraft.”
Tarek El Mitwalli, Executive Vice President of Aviation at Neo Space Group, commented:
"This milestone reflects the convergence of aviation, space, and digital
infrastructure. Activating NSG Skywaves® on Saudia’s inaugural Airbus A321XLR
demonstrates how sovereign space capabilities can be translated into real-world
operational services that enhance airline performance and passenger
connectivity alike. Together with Saudia and our broader ecosystem of partners,
we are helping shape a more connected, resilient, and digitally enabled future
for aviation." -TradeArabia News Service
