Supporting the Growing Demand for In-flight Wi-Fi Services Over Japan

SES S.A. has signed an agreement to receive the full Ku-band capacity of the geostationary communications satellite “Superbird-C2”, owned by SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, for in-flight Wi-Fi services.

　To provide in-flight Wi-Fi service available over Japan for airlines in Japan and across Asia, the “Superbird-C2” satellite will be repositioned from its current orbital location at 144°E to a new orbital slot. The service is scheduled to begin this winter.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　In-flight Wi-Fi Usage Image (Credit: SES)

  The demand for in-flight internet access has seen a sharp global increase in recent years, driven by the growing expectations of air passengers. The market size for in-flight Wi-Fi services, valued at USD 7.98 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 11.85 billion by 2033, underscoring the importance of reliable connectivity as a core component of the modern air travel experience. *¹ Furthermore, research indicates that highly reliable and always-on in-flight Wi-Fi services are key factors in airline selection and customer satisfaction. *² Today’s travelers increasingly expect seamless internet access anytime, anywhere—even while in the air.

　By dedicating the full Ku-band capacity of the “Superbird-C2” satellite to this initiatives, SES and SKY Perfect JSAT aim to provide a comfortable and stable internet connectivity environment for airlines and passengers, anticipating continued growth in the in-flight Wi-Fi market.

*¹ Source: Persistence Market Research, “In-flight Wi-Fi Services Market: Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 2024–2033” (September 2024)
https://www.gii.co.jp/report/pmrs1555590-flight-wi-fi-services-market-global-industry.html
*² Source: NOVASPACE Report, “Prospects for In-flight Connectivity 13th Edition” (July 2025)
https://nova.space/hub/product/prospects-for-in-flight-entertainment-connectivity/

■Company Comments

Michael DeMarco, SES, President Aero Vertical
The expanded collaboration with SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation to augment our network provides a leading experience, exceeding airline and passenger expectations. SKY Perfect JSAT continues to be an important and preferred partner of SES for more than 20 years, providing high-quality capacity in Asia. We know we can count on SKY Perfect JSAT’s support to serve our customers’ needs across multiple market sectors, augmenting our global satellite network. This capacity, in particular, will allow SES to continue providing best-in-class in-flight connectivity over Japan and Asia for years to come.

Tsutomu Kimura, SKY Perfect JSAT, Group President, Space Solution Business Group, Space Business Unit
We have built a strong partnership with SES for over 20 years, and since providing the “JCSAT-5A” satellite in 2016, we have continued to strengthen our collaboration in the in-flight internet business. This agreement to provide the “Superbird-C2” satellite for coverage over Japan reflects the growing demand for in-flight connectivity among airlines in Japan and across Asia. Together with SES, we remain committed to meeting the expanding communication needs in the Asia-Pacific region.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 image of “Superbird-C2”