Saudia Airlines’ first internet-enabled flight streamed live sports at 300 Mbps, expanding to 20 aircraft/Image: X

Saudia Airlines has inaugurated its first fully internet-enabled flight, a step that signals both technological ambition and a strategic advance in the Kingdom’s aviation modernisation. The pilot programme will test high-speed connectivity while gathering passenger feedback, laying the foundation for a seamless digital travel experience across the fleet.The newly introduced service allows passengers to browse the internet, stream live content, and conduct virtual meetings without interruption. Connectivity speeds currently reach 300 megabits per second, with the potential to exceed 800 Mbps in future enhancements. The system accommodates multiple devices, allowing passengers to switch seamlessly between them.When fully deployed, the service will be available free of charge to all passengers, regardless of travel class.Saleh Al Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, described the offering as both a “technological luxury and an essential feature” of Saudi Arabia’s aviation transformation. He affirmed that the objective is to integrate the service across all Saudia aircraft.The first test, flight SV1044, reached an altitude of 35,000 feet. Onboard, Al Jasser and Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, streamed a live Saudi Pro League match through the new system.The minister also conducted a live television interview and a video call with Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, without any connectivity interruption.Al Jasser lauded the initiative as a “strategic enabler” for the Kingdom’s aviation sector and urged rapid completion of the rollout across the entire fleet.

Eng. Al Omar reported that approximately 20 aircraft have already been equipped with the system. The airline intends to expand coverage to all current and incoming aircraft once the necessary legal and regulatory procedures are completed.He framed the initiative as a continuation of Saudia’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through digital innovation, aiming for a fully integrated travel experience on every flight.

The service represents more than a convenience. It is an instrument of strategic modernisation, enabling passengers to work, communicate, and remain connected at high speeds throughout their journey. By offering the service free of charge, Saudia positions itself as a pioneer in digital aviation, reinforcing the Kingdom’s broader agenda of technological advancement and service excellence.