Neo Space Group, a Public Investment Fund company and Saudi Arabia’s commercial space services provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Riyadh Air to equip the airline’s Airbus A321 fleet with NSG Skywaves, the group’s advanced in-flight connectivity solution. The agreement brings together two Saudi innovators as Riyadh Air advances its ambition to operate as the world’s first digitally native airline.
The collaboration represents a key step in Riyadh Air’s digital transformation strategy, with connectivity positioned at the core of the passenger experience. Through NSG Skywaves, travellers will be able to stream, message, browse, game and work seamlessly at cruising altitude, mirroring the quality and ease of connectivity typically experienced on the ground.
Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group, said: “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.”
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 launched operations between Riyadh and London Heathrow, plans to offer passenger connectivity speeds of up to 300 Mbps across its A321 fleet. The service will be powered by NSG Skywaves and supported by HBC+ hardware featuring the Thinkom Ka2517 antenna, a system already deployed on more than 1,700 aircraft worldwide.
The NSG Skywaves platform operates on SES’s Open Orbits network, combining medium Earth orbit low-latency performance with the reliability and global reach of geostationary satellites. This hybrid architecture is designed to deliver consistent, high-speed broadband connectivity while supporting improved operational efficiency for airlines.
Both partners expect the agreement to establish a new standard for intelligent, connected travel by blending Saudi innovation, digital expertise and world-class hospitality. The partnership also reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to innovation and digital transformation in aviation, supporting Vision 2030 goals to position the Kingdom as a global leader in advanced, passenger-centric air travel and aviation technology.
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