Summary:
- Riyadh Air has selected the NSG Skywaves IFC solution to equip its Airbus A321 fleet, enabling free, high-speed internet of up to 300 Mbps for Sfeer loyalty program members.
- All Riyadh Air customers will be able join Sfeer through a simple onboard registration to access the free connectivity.
- The partnership reinforces Riyadh Air’s vision to be the world’s first digitally native airline, while advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition to build a globally connected and innovation-driven aviation sector.
Riyadh Air – Saudi Arabia’s new digitally native airline – has announced a strategic partnership with Neo Space Group (NSG) to equip its Airbus A321 fleet with NSG Skywaves – the Group’s advanced inflight connectivity solution.
This collaboration marks a major milestone in Riyadh Air’s digital transformation, accelerating its vision to become the world’s first digitally native airline. Every interaction is designed to be connected, personalised, and seamlessly powered by technology, enabling travellers 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,” said Riyadh Air CFO Adam Boukadida. “Our first Airbus A321 is anticipated in Q4 2026, and our collaboration with NSG ensures every passenger, especially members of Sfeer, our loyalty program who receive free WiFi, 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.”
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’ 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 inflight connectivity system enables Riyadh Air to enhance passenger experience while improving fleet efficiency and operations.
“This partnership underscores NSG’s commitment to innovation and to delivering best-in-class connectivity across Saudi Arabia,” said Neo Space Group CEO Martijn Blanken. “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.”
The partnership underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to driving innovation and digital transformation within the aviation sector, reflecting the nation’s ambition to redefine the passenger experience through cutting-edge connectivity. By enabling seamless, high-speed communication in the skies, this collaboration supports Vision 2030’s objective of positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in advanced, passenger-centric air travel and a hub for technological excellence in aviation.
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