Saturday 22 Feb
AITA (Africa Information Technology and Aviation), a leading aviation information technology company, has announced a strategic partnership with Arabia SKYFive, a subsidiary of the SCIT Group. The collaboration will bring high-speed inflight connectivity (IFC) services to airlines in Egypt, utilizing cutting-edge Air-to-Ground (A2G) communication technologies. This partnership represents a significant step forward in airborne connectivity for the region.
AITA, an Egyptian entity formed through a partnership between EdgeCom and the Egyptian African Development Projects Company, is dedicated to strengthening Egypt's role as a regional hub for aircraft internet technology, including A2G services.
This collaboration will provide Egyptian airlines with
high-speed, broadband air-to-ground connectivity, enabling rapid approval and
response for both passengers and crew. Leveraging the latest European A2G
technology developed by German company SKYFive, a proven solution successfully
operating across Europe for several years, AITA will deliver a seamless,
high-speed broadband experience. This enhanced connectivity will improve
onboard internet access for passengers and boost operational efficiency for
airlines.
This partnership positions Egypt as a global leader in
adopting cutting-edge second-generation international communication
technologies, increasing the value of equipped aircraft. Critically, it brings
the Egyptian aviation industry in line with leading global airlines already
utilizing SKYFive technology through the Viasat-owned European Aviation Network
(EAN). Furthermore, a roaming agreement between SKYFive/Viasat will ensure
continuous connectivity for Egyptian airlines across Europe.
The AITA and Arabia SKYFive partnership marks a pivotal
moment for aviation in Egypt and Africa. It will allow travelers to efficiently
connect to information and entertainment inflight without affecting aircraft
systems. The first commercially ready aircraft will debut on an international
flight between Egypt and Saudi Arabia before the end of 2025, improving air travel
and enhancing Egypt's role as a regional aviation hub.
The A2G network is expected to provide an unparalleled
connectivity experience for over 25 million annual passengers, especially those
on low-cost carriers to and from major destinations in Europe, Turkey, Saudi
Arabia, and the Middle East.
This partnership will attract significant foreign
investment, starting with approximately $10 million initially and further
investments over three years, boosting aviation in Egypt and the region.
Launching a regional aviation center from Egypt
To solidify their partnership, AITA and Arabia SKYFive will
establish a regional center in Egypt. This center will support the aviation
sector by providing advanced solutions, employing local talent, and fostering
the development of Egyptian aviation professionals. Beyond supporting the
Egyptian aviation industry, the center will also facilitate AITA and Arabia
SKYFive's planned regional expansion. Key activities will include network and
aircraft monitoring, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, line
maintenance, and warehousing, all while adhering to stringent airworthiness
standards.
SKYFive's advanced A2G technology
Aircraft connect via a ground-based network, creating a
high-performance, cost-effective airborne network powered by proven cellular
technology. Passengers can expect a seamless browsing experience with high
speeds and low latency, thanks to Arabia SKYFive's advanced communication
technologies. The lightweight technology integration ensures efficiency while
minimizing weight and drag, contributing to reduced fuel consumption and
environmental sustainability.
AITA's inflight internet revolution positions Egypt as
global tech hub
AITA CEO, Engineer Mohamed El-Haddad, emphasized the
company's goal to partner with all Egyptian airlines, solidifying Egypt's
position as a regional hub for aircraft internet technology. He explained
AITA's focus on training and qualifying Egyptian personnel on cutting-edge A2G
technology, as well as localizing aircraft software and technological solutions
to enable Egypt to provide advanced digital solutions to airlines.
El-Haddad noted that this technology extends beyond in-flight
connectivity improvements, opening opportunities for developing small and
medium-sized aircraft and boosting the competitiveness of the Egyptian market.
He added that the SkyFive cooperation is a strategic move to
empower the Egyptian and African aviation sectors with the latest digital
communication solutions, supporting Egypt's vision to become a leading regional
innovation center for air communications. This partnership, he said, reflects
AITA's commitment to leading digital transformation, creating economic
opportunities, and enhancing services on Egyptian aircraft.
Mohamed Abdel Rahim, CEO of SCIT Group and Arabia SKYFive, expressed excitement about the partnership with AITA, stating that their investment in advanced A2G technology will revolutionize air connectivity in Egypt and the region. He noted their focus on key routes to Europe, Saudi Arabia, and the Middle East, with the goal of creating a scalable model benefiting travelers, airlines, and the broader economy. Abdel Rahim emphasized their commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.
AITA Chairman, Magdy Darwish, stated that the company is pursuing an ambitious expansion plan to deploy aircraft internet technology across Africa. AITA aims to provide airlines with the latest technologies, improving passenger experience and supporting commercial and private aviation. Darwish added that the spread of this technology in Egypt and Africa will be pivotal in strengthening digital infrastructure and achieving a significant advancement in the aviation sector.
