Satellite operators Eutelsat and SES post strong LEO connectivity growth in 2026

LEO connectivity multi‑orbit inflight internet Eutelsat SES Japan Airlines

Eutelsat reported third‑quarter 2026 revenue of €293 million, with Low‑Earth‑Orbit (LEO) connectivity revenue up 65 % year‑on‑year to €155.7 million. Mobile connectivity rose 27 % driven by aviation contracts, and the company now supports about 600 aircraft with its LEO‑enabled inflight service, including a deal with Japan Airlines for 40 wide‑body jets. Video revenues fell 13 % after sanctions on Russian channels, but the operator reaffirmed its full‑year guidance and aims for LEO revenue growth of around 50 % annually.

SES posted a solid first‑quarter 2026 start, with its Networks division revenue up 106 % YoY and its Mobility segment surging 207.8 %. The company secured $306 million of new business and highlighted the same multi‑orbit inflight connectivity system now serving nearly 600 aircraft, again noting the Japan Airlines contract for 40 aircraft. Government and military services grew 50.7 % and media revenue rose 42.9 % after consolidating Intelsat. SES also flagged ongoing work on the EU‑backed IRIS² sovereign satellite constellation, though a final go‑no‑go decision is expected mid‑year.

Both operators are leveraging LEO capacity and multi‑orbit architectures to expand aviation and governmental connectivity services, signaling a shift from traditional broadcast and media businesses toward high‑growth satellite broadband markets.