Neo Space Group (NSG) and Saudia have activated the NSG Skywaves in-flight connectivity service aboard the airline’s first Airbus A321XLR aircraft. This activation represents the first line-fit installation of the service. The milestone marks a step in the growing strategic partnership between the national carrier and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) space company. Both entities stated that the project supports the digital transformation goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative.
Technical Specifications of the Service
The service operates on the NSG Skywaves platform and uses the SES Open Orbits multi-orbit network. By combining geostationary (GEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellite capabilities, the system delivers reliable, low-latency connectivity across major international flight corridors. Recent operational testing conducted by engineering teams showed onboard speeds reaching up to 200 Mbps per aircraft. This bandwidth supports high-demand passenger applications including video streaming, web browsing, and instant messaging.
Enhancing Passenger Experience with In-Flight Connectivity
The integration of high-speed internet aims to change how passengers spend their time during flights. The service allows travelers to access real-time applications without interruption. This capability is designed to meet the modern expectations of international travelers who require continuous digital access.
“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.”
Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia
Strategic Integration and Partnerships
The deployment utilizes the Airbus HBCplus line-fit solution, which was installed during the aircraft manufacturing process. This approach required collaboration between NSG, Saudia, Airbus, SES, and RAVE. The joint effort ensured that the system was fully operational from the moment the aircraft entered active service. This project demonstrates NSG’s capability to manage satellite capacity, hardware, and digital platforms for the global aviation market.
“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.”
Tarek El Mitwalli, Executive Vice President of Aviation at Neo Space Group
Future Aviation Connectivity Outlook
The deployment on the Airbus A321XLR is part of a broader commercial strategy by NSG. The company plans to expand its **in-flight connectivity** platform across other regional and international airline fleets. This expansion aims to address the increasing data demands of modern commercial aircraft and provide consistent digital services for passengers worldwide.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
