Announced on January 26, the partnership will allow all Riyadh Air guests to join Sfeer through a simple onboard registration process and access complimentary connectivity during their flight.
The move reinforces Riyadh Air’s ambition to become the world’s first digitally native airline, while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to build a globally connected, innovation-led aviation sector.
Under the agreement, NSG Skywaves will be deployed across the A321 fleet, which is expected to enter service from Q4 2026. The IFC system will use HBC+ hardware featuring the Thinkom Ka2517 antenna, a solution already in use on more than 1,700 aircraft worldwide. Riyadh Air said the platform will allow passengers to stream, browse, message, game and work in the air with connectivity comparable to ground-based services.
“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, said the airline is rethinking the passenger experience by combining advanced technology with connectivity and Saudi hospitality. “Our collaboration with NSG ensures every passenger will enjoy a truly connected journey,” he said, adding that the airline aims to set new global standards for digital aviation.
NSG Skywaves is powered by SES’s Open Orbits network, which combines medium Earth orbit (MEO) low-latency performance with geostationary (GEO) coverage to deliver consistent, high-speed broadband connectivity. Riyadh Air said the system will also support improved fleet efficiency and operational performance.
Riyadh Air, which recently launched services between Riyadh and London Heathrow, said the partnership marks a key step in building a connected, passenger-centric airline aligned with Saudi Arabia’s wider digital transformation ambitions.
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