Saudia and Neo Space Group launch advanced IFC
Saudia partners with Neo Space Group to launch advanced inflight connectivity, with plans to introduce free high-speed internet across its global network.
Saudia and Neo Space Group (NSG) have announced the launch of one of the most advanced inflight connectivity services, marking a major step in Saudi Arabia’s push to strengthen its digital aviation ecosystem.
The partnership will see Saudia introduce complimentary high-speed internet across its network, positioning the airline among the first in the Middle East to offer free broadband connectivity onboard. The service is powered by NSG’s Skywaves platform and leverages the SES Open Orbits™ multi-orbit network to deliver fast, reliable coverage on a global scale.
The rollout reflects NSG’s broader strategy to scale sovereign, multi-orbit connectivity solutions across key sectors, with aviation serving as a cornerstone. By combining satellite infrastructure with airline operations, the initiative aims to enhance both passenger experience and operational performance.
H.E. Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar said the investment in connectivity aligns with the airline’s long-term growth strategy.
“Connectivity today shapes how guests experience travel and how airlines differentiate themselves in a competitive global market,” Al-Omar said. “This partnership allows us to elevate the onboard experience while reinforcing our broader digital ecosystem, supporting sustained growth in an increasingly connected aviation landscape.”
The announcement comes as Saudia continues a wider transformation effort, including fleet modernization and upgrades to cabin and digital services. The airline says the new IFC offering will play a central role in redefining the onboard experience while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
Eng. Haithem Alfaraj described the partnership as a milestone in advancing Saudi Arabia’s space and aviation ambitions.
“As a public investment fund (PIF) company, we take pride in delivering advanced, sovereign connectivity at scale,” Alfaraj said. “Aviation is a strategic priority for NSG, and this milestone brings high-speed connectivity to passengers across the Kingdom and around the world.”
The solution integrates SES’s Open Orbits architecture, combining geostationary (GEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites to provide low-latency, high-throughput broadband. Hardware deployment will include the Thinkom Ka2517 IFC antenna, with integration and certification led by Eclipse Global Connectivity, particularly for retrofitted aircraft.
With the deployment of NSG Skywaves across Saudia’s fleet, the airline is aiming to deliver a consistent, scalable connectivity experience, supporting both passenger demand for always-on internet and the industry’s shift toward digitally integrated travel.
The initiative also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to expand its role in satellite-enabled services and build a globally competitive space economy, as aviation becomes an increasingly connected and data-driven sector.
