Riyadh Air partners with Neo Space Group to introduce cutting-edge high speed in-flight connectivity on its new Airbus A321 fleet

Neo Space Group, a PIF company and Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial space services provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, 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.

“This partnership underscores NSG’s commitment to innovation and to delivering best-in-class connectivity across Saudi Arabia,” said Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group. “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.”

Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air, stated: “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 Q4 2026, and our collaboration with NSG ensures every passenger 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’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.

Riyadh Air and NSG expect this partnership to set a new benchmark for connected, intelligent travel experiences combining Saudi innovation, digital excellence, and world-class hospitality for passengers within the Kingdom and across the region.

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.