Safran’s investment fund, Safran Corporate Ventures, has invested in SkyFive a provider of Air-To-Ground (A2G) broadband connectivity services and technology to aircraft operators, using a system that leverages standard mobile network components. The deal is part of SkyFive’s Series A investment round, led by Safran Corporate Ventures together with STAR Capital, a European private equity fund..
According to Safran, the investment falls within its strategic focus on expanding digital solutions within the aviation industry.
“This technology cooperation constitutes a key milestone within Safran’s strategy in offering aircraft connectivity solutions. Safran is a key player in this area and we see tremendous growth in Air-To-Ground connectivity. SkyFive’s cutting-edge solution will complement our current offering and set us apart from other industry players in bringing an affordable and increased level of performance to the aircraft”, said Sebastien Weber, CEO of Safran Aerosystems, and SkyFive’s newest board member.
Thorsten Robrecht, CEO of SkyFive added, “This successful Series A funding round – during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic – is a strong endorsement of SkyFive’s technological leadership and its significant market opportunity. Jointly, we foresee that aviation digitisation will accelerate after the pandemic, with our true broadband in-flight connectivity becoming a strategic cornerstone for the entire industry.”
