SES and Abra Group have begun rolling out a multi-orbit inflight connectivity service across more than 100 aircraft, starting with initial deployments on Airbus A320 aircraft operated by Avianca. The launch brings combined geostationary (GEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity to commercial fleets in the Americas, targeting more consistent broadband performance throughout flight routes.
The first phase places the service on 10 Airbus A320 aircraft, with expansion planned across Airbus and Boeing platforms operated by Abra Group airlines, including Avianca, GOL, and Wamos Air. The solution uses SES-managed satellite capacity integrated with partner LEO constellations to maintain connectivity across varying geographic regions and flight profiles.
Avianca is among the first airlines in Latin America to deploy SES’ electronically steered array (ESA) antenna, which measures less than seven centimeters (2.8 inches) in height. The low-profile antenna enables dynamic switching between GEO and LEO networks, supporting higher availability and reduced latency without mechanical steering.
• Initial deployment on 10 Airbus A320 aircraft operated by Avianca
• Planned rollout across more than 100 Airbus and Boeing aircraft in the Abra Group fleet
• Multi-orbit architecture combining SES GEO satellites with partner LEO constellations
• Electronically steered array antenna under seven centimeters (2.8 inches) tall
• Coverage focused on airline operations across North, Central, and South America
“Abra Group’s commitment to passenger experience will now include consistent reliable, multi-orbit satellite connectivity on its Airbus and Boeing fleet that provides the same fast and dependable internet access passengers enjoy at home no matter where or when they fly,” said Enrique Villasenor, Vice President of Global Airline Partnerships at SES.
🌐 Analysis
Airline connectivity providers are increasingly adopting multi-orbit architectures to address coverage gaps and performance variability inherent in single-orbit systems. SES has expanded its inflight connectivity portfolio by integrating GEO capacity with partner LEO networks, while competitors such as Intelsat, Viasat, and OneWeb-backed offerings are pursuing similar hybrid strategies to improve resilience and route-level performance for global airline fleets.
