Saudi government-backed Neo Space Group and Saudia, the Kingdom’s national flag carrier, have announced the first line-fit activation of NSG Skywaves IFC (in-flight connectivity) aboard the airline’s inaugural Airbus A321XLR aircraft.

Powered by NSG Skywaves and using the SES Open Orbits multi-orbit network, the service combines GEO and MEO satellite capabilities to deliver resilient, low-latency connectivity across key international flight corridors. Recent operational testing conducted by NSG’s engineering and operations teams demonstrated onboard speeds up to 200 Mbps per aircraft, supporting a seamless digital experience across streaming, messaging, browsing, and other high-demand passenger applications.

The activation demonstrates the successful integration of the Airbus HBCplus line-fit solution and reflects close collaboration between NSG, Saudia, Airbus, SES, RAVE and other industry partners.

READ: Riyadh Air to equip A321 fleet with Skywaves IFC

Mr. 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.”

Neo Space Group (NSG) is a national company owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It operates in the space sector and satellite services both locally and globally. Announced on May 27, 2024, it is the first PIF investment focusing entirely on space sector industries.