Thai Airways will deploy the Neo Space Group (NSG) Skywaves inflight internet service on its upcoming 787 Dreamliner fleet, confirming its commitment to an improved digital passenger experience.
NSG enables speeds up to 200 Mbps to the aircraft. Thai previously indicated the service would deliver “best-in-class complimentary Wi-Fi streaming for premium class passengers and Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) members.”
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. – Wirush Theparak, Head of Customer Experience and Product at Thai Airways International
The deal extends Thai’s partnership with NSG, marking the third fleet type to fly with the new Ka-band satellite connectivity solution. In October 2024 Thai and NSG confirmed retrofits of the 777 fleet and line-fit of the upcoming A321neo aircraft. The Thai 787s were also mentioned in an April 2025 announcement, so this is not particularly new news. Indeed, it is not entirely clear why the companies chose to highlight the deal again at this time.
Read more: NSG Expands Backlog, Talks Future Growth
NSG participates in the SES’s Open Orbits™ network program, enabling it to access the mPower MEO constellation for low-latency, high-speed performance, plus GEO satellites for stability and global coverage for its airline customers. Tarek El Mitwalli, EVP Aviation at NSG, also points out Skywaves can deliver “seamless multi-orbit connectivity including uninterrupted service over India and China, enhancing passenger experience, entertainment, and productivity – making every journey more connected and enjoyable.”
Read more: NSG signs Thai Airways, Turkish Airways for inflight internet
Mention of India and China is particularly compelling for the Thai operations given the carrier’s route map. And it serves as a mild rebuke of Starlink and other LEO-only offerings where services are not licensed in those markets.
The Skywaves solution will be delivered as a line-fit option, installed at the Boeing factory. This ensures each Thai Airways aircraft arrives at the airline with full connectivity functionality from day one. The line-fit equipage will see the ThinKom‘s ThinAir Ka2517 antenna installed on the aircraft, as well as the associated on-board server hardware.
NSG notes this pushes its committed backlog above 350 aircraft.
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