Saudi Arabia’s Taqnia Space (TSC) has signed a multi-year contract with Eutelsat (Euronext Paris: ETL) including incremental multi-transponder wide-beam capacity on the EUTELSAT 70B satellite as well as the fifth HTS spotbeam on EUTELSAT 3B, on which it already operates the four others.
This incremental capacity will enable Taqnia Space to add more space assets to its high-density bandwidth coverage over MENA and Europe, and expand for the first time TSC in-flight connectivity services over Central and South-East Asia. New capacities added to TSC aero platform will be utilised as a part of global connectivity package called UON, expected to be launched on the Saudia fleet in the fourth quarter of 2018.
Using their personal devices (laptops, tablets and smartphones), airline passengers flying over these regions will be able to enjoy live television, connect to broadband Internet, and benefit from cellular voice or data services on aircraft equipped with TSC aero connectivity solution.
Abdullah Al-Osaimi, CEO of Taqnia Space, said: “Over the last few years, in-flight connectivity has become a must-have for passengers looking for an ever-improving air travel experience that allows them to carry on using their digital devices without disruption. By extending the contract with Eutelsat on EUTELSAT 3B and adding new capacity over a wider area through leased resources on EUTELSAT 70B, we are certain that we can deliver a high-quality response to the exponential requirements of the airlines we partner with and ensure continuous global connectivity service.”
Rodolphe Belmer, CEO of Eutelsat, concluded: “This agreement marks a new milestone in our relationship with Taqnia Space. It highlights the capacity of our satellite fleet to meet the growing needs of the largest operators in the field of in-flight connectivity and to support the rise of the new norm: being connected everywhere and at all times.”
About Taqnia
TAQNIA SPACE (TSC) is a Saudi Company owned by Saudi PIF (Public Investment Fund). TSC objectives include technology transfer, commercializing technology, supporting sustainable growth of the GDP, diversifying the economy, and creating high quality jobs. TSC vision is to be a leader in the Middle East as satellites manufacturer, operator and service provider targeting different market segments, Satellite Communications and offering voice, data, & video services. The Company also provides high value remote sensing Data and images.
About Eutelsat Communications
Founded in 1977, Eutelsat Communications is one of the world’s leading satellite operators. With a global fleet of satellites and associated ground infrastructure, Eutelsat enables clients across Video, Data, Government, Fixed and Mobile Broadband markets to communicate effectively to their customers, irrespective of their location. Over 6,800 television channels operated by leading media groups are broadcast by Eutelsat to one billion viewers equipped for DTH reception or connected to terrestrial networks. Headquartered in Paris, with offices and teleports around the globe, Eutelsat assembles 1,000 men and women from 46 countries who are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of service.
Eutelsat Communications is listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ticker: ETL).
For more about Eutelsat go to www.eutelsat.com
