The European Space Agency (ESA) and Seamless Air Alliance (SAA) have made key achievements in the development of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) for aviation connectivity. Following a formalised partnership in July 2024, these milestones represent a significant leap forward in European and American capabilities to deliver seamless, space-based communication solutions.
ESA-led test trials, which were driven by ESA’s Space for 5G/ 6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme line, have provided comprehensive testing campaigns that have validated 5G NTN capabilities across satellites in low Earth orbit and geostationary orbit. Through coordination with industry leaders Telesat, Eutelsat OneWeb and Hispasat, the initiative has demonstrated ESA’s crucial role in fostering innovation and international partnerships to allow for European technological competitiveness in the global space sector.
The project is guiding the development of technical standards through active participation in 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) initiatives. The first use case for 5G NTN in aviation was presented by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) to 3GPP stakeholders and passed the initial screening processes. SAA delegates also presented advanced Mobile VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) capabilities and provided insights into future aviation connectivity, with the creation of a dedicated technical working group that focuses on aviation integration. The collaboration is with SAA co-chairs from Airbus and Vodafone.
This comprehensive approach to industry coordination and technical development ensures that European space technology not only meets current aviation connectivity needs, but also positions the European space sector for leadership in future telecommunications innovations. The SAA is continually growing, expanding its expertise and leadership in the connectivity domain for aviation by working with a network of mobile operators, airlines, technology and connectivity service providers, such as Air Canada, Safran, Thales, among others.
"The successful completion of NTN trials over LEO and GEO satellites represents a major milestone toward achieving seamless global connectivity. This advancement aims to revolutionise various markets, including the transformation of in-flight connectivity through innovative space-based solutions," said Laurent Jaffart, ESA Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications. "Our partnership with the SAA continues to foster innovation and pave the way for the future of in-flight connectivity."
“Seamless Air Alliance is playing an important role across the 3GPP and ESTI communities, and ESA is proud to have been supporting this growth and recognising the important role satellites will continue to play in enabling aviation connectivity. This international partnership enables Europe and Canada’s technological capabilities to grow, as well as benefitting our citizens and the aviation industry,” said Antonio Franchi, ESA’s Head of the 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Programme Office within the Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity programme line.
"Seamless Air Alliance remains committed to advancing the adoption of 5G NTN technologies within aviation," said CEO Jack Mandala. "These milestones reflect our dedication to delivering seamless, high-speed connectivity to passengers worldwide."
