Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s award-winning flag carrier, has announced a partnership with Luxembourg-based satellite operator SES to introduce high-speed onboard Wi-Fi for business and leisure travellers.
The partnership was also confirmed on X by Roman Vassilenko, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg, who wrote that SES “was selected by Air Astana… to introduce next-generation inflight connectivity services across its Airbus A321LR fleet”. He added that “the first connected aircraft entered commercial service” on 29 October 2026, flying between Almaty and Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
.@SES_Satellites was selected by @airastana, the award-winning flag carrier of Kazakhstan, to introduce next-generation inflight connectivity services across its Airbus A321LR fleet. The first connected aircraft entered commercial service on 29/10/26. https://t.co/5Wf3zcDmeO
— Roman Vassilenko (@romanvassilenko) October 31, 2026
The technology will be deployed in phases across the airline’s Airbus A321LR fleet throughout 2027.
The service uses a new electronically steered array (ESA) antenna, which connects aircraft to satellites without the need for a mechanically moving dish. By combining satellites operating at different altitudes, SES aims to provide more reliable internet access throughout the flight.
Headquartered in Luxembourg, SES operates satellite communications networks serving airlines, businesses and governments across the globe. The service will also be supported by QMobile, one of Kazakhstan’s leading telecommunications and technology providers.
Fast, free Wi-Fi? That’s just the starting point. ✈️ Airlines want more from inflight connectivity. Better passenger experiences. New revenue opportunities. More value at 30,000 feet. At SES, we’re helping airline partners make it happen. Hear from SESers Mike DeMarco and James Blackwell on how we’re taking inflight connectivity further, together. 👇 🔗 Explore our aviation solutions: https://t.co/Y6P3uvDWq4 #InflightConnectivity #Aviation
— SES (@SES_Satellites) October 9, 2026
According to Air Astana, internet access will be free for all passengers travelling on equipped aircraft during a promotional period running until 31 January 2027.
From 1 February 2027, however, complimentary full internet access will be reserved for Business Class passengers and Gold and Diamond members of the airline’s Nomad Club loyalty programme.
Blue and Silver members will still be able to use messaging apps free of charge, while other passengers will be able to purchase internet packages.
While this is not the airline’s first introduction of inflight connectivity – three of its Boeing 767 aircraft are already equipped with Inmarsat’s Global Xpress technology, now part of Viasat – “SES’s multi-orbit solution will enable Air Astana to offer a consistent, high-quality online experience across its network”, according to Blane Boynton, Senior Vice President of Aviation at SES.
It should “bring a new era of inflight connectivity to passengers throughout Central Asia and beyond”, he added.
The rollout is part of Kazakhstan’s wider efforts to expand digital connectivity.
According to Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, the project was made possible by changes to the regulatory framework governing the use of non-geostationary satellite systems in aviation.
“This has paved the way for the practical implementation of the technology”, Madiyev said.
“Today’s passengers expect to stay connected wherever they travel, whether they are working, keeping in touch with family and friends, or enjoying entertainment during their journey”, said Yelena Obukhova, Vice President at Air Astana.
“Our partnership with SES will enable Air Astana to offer a modern, high-quality connectivity experience that reflects the premium service our customers expect. By combining multi-orbit satellite technology with our onboard experience, we are investing in greater comfort, convenience and value for our passengers.”
