Thai Airways International and Neo Space Group (NSG) have announced an expanded partnership that will see NSG provide state-of-the-art in-flight connectivity (IFC) solutions for the Thai carrier’s fleet. Under the terms of the deal, the technology firm will equip 80 of the Thai national airline’s fleet aircraft with its state-of-the-art IFC solution. NSG is a Private Investment Fund company and Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial satellite services provider.
The rollout of the connectivity solution will begin with Thai Airways’ Boeing 777 fleet, which will be retrofitted starting in the third quarter of 2025. The airline currently operates five Boeing 777-200ERs and 17 Boeing 777-300ERs in its fleet. In parallel, the carrier’s Airbus 18-strong A321neo fleet (currently in production) will be paired with the Airbus HBCplus platform along the production line, with deliveries of the new narrowbodies starting in late 2025.
Elsewhere, Thai Airways’ new 48 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, also currently in production, will be line-fitted with Safran’s Aeroconnect terminal, with deliveries for the 787s scheduled to commence in mid-2026.
This latest announcement builds on an earlier announcement made in October 2024 by NSG and Thai Airways that the companies would be collaborating to deliver a “seamless in-flight connectivity service, offering market-leading connection speed, global gate-to-gate coverage (where permitted), and a personalized passenger experience through seamless login and exclusive benefits for Royal Orchid Plus (Thai business class) members.
This announcement marks “a major milestone in NSG and Thai Airways’ joint connectivity strategy,” said NSG. “By working with NSG, THAI is setting a new standard in passenger experience, equipping its fleet with cutting-edge IFC technology. NSG’s IFC solution will provide passengers with internet speeds of up to 200Mbps, delivering best-in-class complimentary Wi-Fi streaming to premium class passengers and Royal Orchid Plus members.”
This investment in enhancing the passenger experience is part of Thai’s broader strategy to emerge stronger following recent financial issues that took hold during the COVID-10 period. Having emerged from bankruptcy, the carrier is now advancing headlong into a period of growth with new aircraft, new routes, and new onboard products, of which inflight connectivity is viewed by the airline as a key element.
According to the airline, “THAI passengers will benefit from unlimited, high-speed internet access throughout their journey, reinforcing Thai Airways’ commitment to digital innovation and service excellence. NSG’s IFC solution leverages the SES Open Orbits network, delivering high-speed, low-latency coverage through both GEO and MEO satellites across the airline’s global routes.”
Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group, stated, “Being selected by Thai Airways International highlights the strength and versatility of NSG’s multi-orbit connectivity solutions. We are excited to support Thai Airways in elevating the passenger experience with reliable, high-speed internet. This collaboration marks not only the airline’s resurgence but also its forward-thinking vision, and we are proud to play a role in shaping its future.”
Wirush Theparak, Head of Customer Experience and Product at Thai Airways International, commented, “Thai Airways International is committed to delivering an elevated guest experience. Our partnership with NSG allows us to vastly improve our in-flight connectivity and offer our passengers new levels of convenience, entertainment, and comfort. This initiative marks a significant step in our journey to redefine passenger expectations.”