Ibadan, 28 January 2026. – Neo Space Group (NSG), 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.
NSG Skywaves® leverages SES’s Open Orbits™ network, which combines Middle Earth Orbit (MEO)’s low-latency, high-speed performance with Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO)’s stability and global coverage to deliver reliable broadband connectivity.
As a result, Riyadh Air, which recently commenced operations between Riyadh and London Heathrow, will subsequently introduce high-speed passenger connectivity of up to 300 Mbps on its A321 fleet, enhancing its passenger experience while improving fleet efficiency and operations. Last April, NSG also entered into similar agreements to equip 80 Thai Airways’ aircraft and Uzbekistan Airways’ A321neo fleet respectively with its IFC solution.
Speaking on the collaboration with Riyadh Air, Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group, explained, “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.”
NSG’s collaboration with Riyadh Air marks a major milestone in the airline’s digital transformation, accelerating its vision to become the world’s first digitally native airline. Furthermore, both outfits expect this partnership to set a new benchmark for connected, intelligent travel experiences that combine Saudi innovation, digital excellence, and world-class hospitality for passengers within the Kingdom and across the region.
“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”, remarked Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air. “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.”
