Thai Airways to debut Skywaves Wi-Fi on Boeing 787 fleet
Thai Airways will become the first airline to introduce Neo Space Group's (NSG) Skywaves in-flight connectivity solution as a factory line-fit across its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. The airline will equip all 34 Boeing 787 aircraft with NSG's multi-orbit connectivity technology, providing broadband speeds of up to 200 Mbps to support passenger Wi-Fi and improve operational efficiency.
Connectivity deployment
The agreement means every new Boeing 787 delivered to Thai Airways will have the Skywaves system installed directly at the factory. This approach removes the need for retrofit installations post-delivery, preventing additional downtime and cost for the airline. It also guarantees that Wi-Fi and digital services will be ready for passengers from the first day of service.
Previously, Thai Airways selected NSG to retrofit its Boeing 777 fleet with the Skywaves solution. The partnership now progresses to include new line-fit installations, and will also extend to the airline's forthcoming Airbus A321neo aircraft, which are due to enter service in 2026 via the Airbus HBCplus programme with Safran Passenger Innovations.
Technology features
The NSG Skywaves platform uses SES's Open Orbits network, which combines medium earth orbit (MEO) satellites for low latency and high performance, with geostationary (GEO) satellites for wide global coverage. This is integrated with the ThinKom Ka2517 antenna, a multi-orbit solution already deployed on more than 1,700 commercial aircraft. The technology aims to provide reliable broadband connectivity throughout each flight, covering challenging regions such as India and China where connectivity can sometimes be disrupted.
Operational impact
The new system is expected to enhance Thai Airways' digital in-flight experience and streamline operational capabilities. It is aligned with the airline's broader digital transformation strategy, especially for long-haul operations, and forms part of its plan to strengthen its premium offer.
"At Thai Airways, enhancing the customer journey is central to our strategy. By working with Neo Space Group on a line-fit IFC solution for our Boeing 787 fleet, we will offer passengers seamless, high-speed connectivity from the moment they board. This partnership empowers us to deliver a world-class digital in-flight experience and strengthen our operational capabilities, ensuring Thai Airways remains a leader in premium long-haul travel," said Wirush Theparak, Head of Customer Experience and Product, Thai Airways.
Wider market context
With more than 1,000 Boeing 787 Dreamliners currently in service worldwide, the move is regarded by both companies as a significant development for the airline industry's take-up of advanced in-flight connectivity. NSG reports that more than 350 aircraft are either equipped or on order for its Skywaves system. The group is pursuing further international expansion and supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by expanding digital services for aviation.
"We are proud to welcome Thai Airways as the launch customer for the line-fit installation of NSG Skywaves on the Boeing 787. This milestone demonstrates the confidence of a leading international carrier and highlights NSG's ability to deliver advanced, line-fit connectivity on one of the world's most significant aircraft platforms. NSG Skywaves will provide seamless multi-orbit connectivity including uninterrupted service over India and China, enhancing passenger experience, entertainment, and productivity - making every journey more connected and enjoyable. With over 1,000 Dreamliners in service globally, this achievement marks a major step in NSG's international growth as we bring innovation, efficiency, and sustainability to airlines worldwide," said Tarek El Mitwalli, EVP Business Aviation, Thai Airways.
