Neo Space Group (NSG), a PIF company and Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial space services provider, has entered into a strategic partnership with Riyadh Air to equip its Airbus A321 fleet with NSG Skywaves, the Group’s advanced in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution.
This collaboration marks a major milestone in Riyadh Air’s digital transformation, accelerating our vision to become the world’s first digitally native airline.
Every interaction is designed to be connected, personalized, and seamlessly powered by technology, enabling passengers to stream, message, browse, game, and stay productive at 35,000 feet with the same effortless connectivity they experience on the ground.
“As the world’s first digitally native airline, Riyadh Air is reimagining what air travel can be by fusing advanced technology, seamless connectivity, and authentic Saudi hospitality. Our first Airbus A321 is anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2026, and our collaboration with NSG ensures every passenger, especially members of Sfeer, our loyalty program, who receive free Wi-Fi, will enjoy a truly connected journey. We are dedicated to setting new global standards for digital aviation, leveraging the ambitious Saudi technical infrastructure that truly brings this partnership to life.”
“This partnership underscores NSG’s commitment to innovation and to delivering best-in-class connectivity across Saudi Arabia. We are proud to collaborate with Riyadh Air to create a digitally seamless experience for passengers, reflecting the Kingdom’s vision for the future of aviation,” said Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group.
Riyadh Air, which recently commenced operations between Riyadh and London Heathrow, will introduce high-speed passenger connectivity of up to 300 Mbps on its A321 fleet. Powered by NSG Skywaves, the service will use HBC+ hardware featuring the Thinkom Ka2517 antenna, a system trusted by more than 1,700 aircraft worldwide.
NSG Skywaves leverages SES’s Open Orbits network, which combines MEO’s low-latency, high-speed performance with GEO’s stability and global coverage to deliver reliable broadband connectivity. This advanced IFC system enables Riyadh Air to enhance passenger experience while improving fleet efficiency and operations, as per the statement.
