Advancing Long-Haul Travel with Next-Generation Multi-Orbit Connectivity Solutions
SES, a global leader in satellite-enabled space solutions, has announced a significant new agreement with Japan Airlines (JAL) to provide advanced multi-orbit inflight connectivity (IFC) across the carrier’s long-haul fleet. The partnership marks a major step forward in JAL’s ongoing efforts to elevate the passenger experience by delivering high-speed, reliable internet access on international routes, ensuring travelers can stay connected throughout their journey regardless of destination.
The agreement underscores the growing importance of seamless onboard connectivity in modern aviation, where passengers increasingly expect the same level of digital access in the air as they enjoy on the ground. By selecting SES’s cutting-edge multi-orbit connectivity solution, JAL is positioning itself at the forefront of next-generation inflight technology, reinforcing its reputation as a premium global airline committed to innovation and customer satisfaction.
Expanding Connectivity Across a Modern Long-Haul Fleet
Under the terms of the agreement, Japan Airlines will equip a substantial portion of its widebody fleet with SES’s multi-orbit electronically steered antenna (ESA) system. The rollout will include installations on 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft and 10 Boeing 787-9 aircraft as part of linefit deliveries, as well as retrofitting an additional 11 Boeing 787-9 aircraft already in service.
The linefit installations—where connectivity systems are integrated during the aircraft manufacturing process—are scheduled to begin in 2028. This approach allows for seamless integration of the ESA technology into new aircraft, optimizing performance and reducing installation complexity. Meanwhile, the retrofit program ensures that existing aircraft will also benefit from the upgraded connectivity, maintaining consistency across the fleet and ensuring that passengers receive a uniform onboard experience.
This large-scale deployment reflects JAL’s strategic focus on long-haul operations, where connectivity plays a critical role in enhancing passenger comfort, productivity, and entertainment during extended flight durations.
The Power of Multi-Orbit Connectivity
At the core of this initiative is SES’s multi-orbit connectivity solution, which combines capacity from both geostationary (GEO) satellites and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations. This hybrid approach delivers a powerful combination of wide coverage, high throughput, and low latency, addressing many of the limitations associated with traditional single-orbit satellite systems.
Electronically steered antennas (ESAs) are a key component of this system. Unlike traditional mechanically steered antennas, ESAs have no moving parts and can dynamically switch between satellite networks. Their low-profile design reduces aerodynamic drag, contributing to improved fuel efficiency while maintaining high performance.
The integration of GEO and LEO capabilities enables uninterrupted connectivity across diverse flight paths, including remote and oceanic regions where conventional systems may struggle. Passengers can expect faster internet speeds, smoother streaming, and more reliable connections for work, communication, and entertainment.
Building on a Longstanding Partnership
The new agreement builds on a strong and enduring relationship between SES and Japan Airlines that dates back more than a decade. Since 2013, SES has supported JAL’s inflight connectivity initiatives, helping the airline introduce and expand onboard internet services across its network.
Over the years, this collaboration has enabled JAL to pioneer several passenger-focused innovations. Notably, the airline became one of the first in the world to offer free inflight connectivity on all domestic routes, a move introduced in 2017 that set a new standard for customer service in the aviation industry.
By extending their partnership to include advanced multi-orbit solutions for long-haul flights, SES and JAL are continuing to push the boundaries of what inflight connectivity can offer.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience
For Japan Airlines, the decision to adopt SES’s multi-orbit IFC system is closely aligned with its broader vision of delivering a superior customer experience. In today’s digital age, connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity for many travelers, whether they are business professionals needing to stay productive or leisure passengers seeking entertainment and communication options.
The enhanced connectivity will allow passengers to browse the web, stream content, participate in video calls, and access cloud-based services with minimal interruption. This is particularly important on long-haul routes, where passengers may spend many hours in the air and expect consistent, high-quality service throughout the journey.
Moreover, reliable inflight connectivity can also support operational efficiencies for airlines, enabling real-time data exchange, improved crew communication, and enhanced passenger services.
Supporting JAL’s Fleet Modernization Strategy
The rollout of SES’s ESA technology is closely tied to Japan Airlines’ broader fleet modernization and expansion plans. The Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787-9 are among the most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft in JAL’s fleet, designed to deliver superior performance, passenger comfort, and environmental sustainability.
By equipping these aircraft with state-of-the-art connectivity solutions, JAL is ensuring that its fleet remains competitive in an increasingly digital and customer-centric aviation landscape. The combination of modern aircraft and advanced connectivity technology positions the airline to meet evolving passenger expectations while maintaining operational excellence.
Extending Innovation to Narrowbody Operations
In addition to the long-haul deployment, JAL is also preparing to introduce SES’s multi-orbit ESA system on its Boeing 737-8 aircraft. Deliveries for these narrowbody aircraft are expected to begin in 2027, further expanding the airline’s connectivity capabilities across its network.
This comprehensive approach highlights JAL’s commitment to delivering a consistent and high-quality inflight experience across both domestic and international routes. By leveraging the same advanced technology across different aircraft types, the airline can ensure that passengers enjoy a seamless experience regardless of the route or aircraft they are flying on.
Industry Implications and Future Outlook
The partnership between SES and Japan Airlines reflects broader trends in the aviation industry, where airlines are increasingly investing in advanced connectivity solutions to differentiate their services and meet rising passenger expectations.
Multi-orbit connectivity is emerging as a key enabler of next-generation inflight services, offering the flexibility, performance, and reliability needed to support a wide range of applications. As satellite technology continues to evolve, airlines that adopt these solutions early are likely to gain a competitive advantage in terms of customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
For SES, the agreement further strengthens its position as a leading provider of satellite-based connectivity solutions for the aviation sector. By expanding its footprint with a major global airline like JAL, the company is demonstrating the scalability and effectiveness of its multi-orbit approach.
Executive Perspectives
Industry leaders from both organizations have emphasized the significance of the partnership and its impact on the passenger experience. Enrique Villasenor, Vice President of Global Airline Partnerships at SES, highlighted the benefits of multi-orbit connectivity in delivering fast, dependable internet access with wide coverage and low latency.
He noted that extending this service to JAL’s Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 fleet builds on a decade-long collaboration and supports the airline’s efforts to expand next-generation connectivity across its long-haul operations.
From JAL’s perspective, the decision to adopt SES’s solution reflects confidence in the technology and the partnership. Junko Sakihara, Deputy Senior Vice President of Customer Experience at Japan Airlines, emphasized the airline’s history of innovation in inflight connectivity and its commitment to continuous improvement.
She pointed to the reliability, redundancy, and ongoing innovation offered by SES’s multi-orbit system as key factors in the decision, underscoring the airline’s focus on delivering a superior experience for its passengers.
A New Era of Connected Travel
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, inflight connectivity is becoming a central component of the passenger experience. The collaboration between SES and Japan Airlines represents a significant milestone in this journey, bringing together advanced technology and a shared commitment to innovation.
By deploying multi-orbit connectivity across its long-haul fleet, JAL is not only enhancing the travel experience for its passengers but also setting a new benchmark for the industry. The initiative demonstrates how airlines can leverage cutting-edge solutions to meet the demands of modern travelers while preparing for the future of connected aviation.
With installations set to begin in the coming years, passengers flying on Japan Airlines can look forward to a new era of seamless, high-speed connectivity in the skies—one that keeps them connected, productive, and entertained from takeoff to landing.
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