The Seamless Air Alliance (SAA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have made significant strides in advancing 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) for aviation connectivity. This collaboration represents a crucial milestone in the integration of space-based communication technologies, extending mobile networks to support in-flight connectivity and enhancing passenger experiences worldwide.
Advancements in 5G NTN for Aviation
The recent developments led by ESA have demonstrated successful 5G NTN links through both Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites. Key industry players such as Telesat and Eutelsat OneWeb have showcased seamless 5G NTN connectivity via LEO satellites, while ESA and Hispasat have validated 5G NTN links over GEO satellites. These trials underscore the increasing viability of satellite-based communication solutions for aviation, marking a transformative shift in global connectivity.
The partnership between ESA and SAA, alongside Airbus and other industry stakeholders, aims to advance multi-orbit NTN capabilities across Europe and the United States. Notably, several Seamless Air Alliance members—including Boeing, Kontron, ST Engineering iDirect, and Thales—are actively participating in the 5G NTN Working Group. To further expand this initiative, ESA and SAA are seeking greater involvement from chipset manufacturers, reinforcing the ecosystem necessary for large-scale adoption of NTN solutions in aviation.
Industry Perspectives
According to Laurent Jaffart, ESA Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications, “The successful completion of these 5G NTN tests represents a crucial step toward revolutionizing in-flight connectivity with space-based solutions. Our ongoing collaboration with the Seamless Air Alliance fosters innovation and paves the way for the future of global aviation connectivity.”
Jack Mandala, CEO of Seamless Air Alliance, echoed similar sentiments: “Seamless Air Alliance remains committed to advancing the adoption of 5G NTN technologies within aviation. These milestones reflect our dedication to enabling seamless, high-speed connectivity for passengers worldwide.”
Key Achievements in 5G NTN Development
The introduction of 5G NTN in aviation has achieved several key milestones:
- Presentation to 3GPP: SAA members successfully introduced the first use case for 5G NTN in aviation to the global telecommunications standards body, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). This proposal passed initial screening, ensuring continued progress toward standardization and adoption within the industry.
- Gate-to-Gate Connectivity: The use case proposed by SAA includes seamless internet access from departure to arrival, ensuring continuity in joint Terrestrial/Non-Terrestrial Network (TN/NTN) and multi-orbit deployment scenarios. This marks a crucial step in making uninterrupted in-flight internet connectivity a reality.
- Partnership Formalization: In July 2024, ESA and SAA officially formalized their partnership to accelerate space-based connectivity solutions for aviation. This agreement solidifies their commitment to long-term collaboration.
- Recognition as a Market Representation Partner for 3GPP: The Seamless Air Alliance has been acknowledged as a key influencer in shaping future connectivity standards, reinforcing its leadership role in the aviation technology ecosystem.
- Showcasing at ETSI Conference: SAA members presented their vision for future NTN applications at the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) Conference on Non-Terrestrial Networks, highlighting innovative solutions and strategic industry insights.
- Advancements in NTN Mobile VSAT: At the 3GPP Release-19 RAN Plenary, SAA delegates shared advancements in NTN Mobile Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) enhancements, further strengthening industry-wide collaboration.
- Publication of Industry Reports: The release of “3GPP Non-Terrestrial Networks for Aviation Connectivity” by SAA provides critical insights into the future of in-flight internet and the evolving role of NTN technologies.
- Technical Working Group Initiatives: Co-chaired by Airbus and Vodafone, a dedicated Technical Working Group has been established to drive the integration of 5G NTN into the aviation industry. This initiative ensures that technological advancements align with industry needs and regulatory frameworks.
- NTN Forum Creation: ESA played a pivotal role in launching the NTN Forum in 2024, bringing together stakeholders to harmonize needs and promote space hybrid TN/NTN networks for global connectivity.
The Future of 5G NTN in Aviation
As the demand for high-speed in-flight connectivity continues to grow, the successful implementation of 5G NTN technologies is poised to transform aviation. The partnership between SAA and ESA has demonstrated tangible progress in integrating satellite-based communication with terrestrial networks, offering a promising outlook for the future of air travel.
Looking ahead, the seamless integration of 5G NTN into commercial aviation will require continued collaboration among aerospace manufacturers, telecommunication providers, regulatory bodies, and chipset vendors. With increasing adoption and standardization, the vision of uninterrupted, high-speed internet access for passengers is becoming a reality, setting a new benchmark for aviation connectivity in the digital age.
The work spearheaded by the Seamless Air Alliance and the European Space Agency underscores the potential of 5G NTN to reshape how airlines, passengers, and industry stakeholders experience and utilize in-flight internet services. By pioneering advancements in multi-orbit satellite connectivity and collaborating on standardization efforts, these organizations are paving the way for a future where seamless global connectivity is no longer a luxury but a standard feature of air travel.