Airtel Africa Successfully Tests Satellite Internet on Moving Train in Sub-Saharan Africa
The successful tests have proven that uninterrupted high-speed internet can now be delivered across 669 kilometres of forested, remote terrain, where traditional cell towers and fibre optics don’t reach.
In what is a historic breakthrough for African railways connectivity, Airtel Africa has successfully tested satellite internet on a moving train in Sub-Saharan Africa. The successful tests have proven that uninterrupted high-speed internet can now be delivered across 669 kilometres of forested, remote terrain, where traditional cell towers and fibre optics don’t reach.
Railways have been a lifeline for sub-Saharan Africa, transporting millions of tonnes of freight and hundreds of thousands of passengers every year. Until now, much of these railways’ vast stretch ran through areas cut off from modern connectivity. With the successful satellite trials, this is no longer the case.
Powered by Airtel Satellite for Business and Eutelsat OneWeb’s low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, the tests kept the train connected throughout most of the journey between key cities. The connection proved strong, reliable, and remarkably stable, even as the train travelled through dense forest.
To measure the success of the pilot, Airtel conducted detailed tests along the route. Coverage was successful across almost the entire journey. Speeds reached up to 100 Mbps for downloads and 20 Mbps for uploads, sufficient for both train operations and passengers using multiple devices. The performance closely matched the traffic plan set for the trial—100 Mbps downlink and 20 Mbps uplink—confirming that the system could deliver consistent, high-capacity internet in motion.
The results highlight what’s possible: smooth connectivity across almost the entire route, minimal interruptions, low latency and consistent performance despite the train being in constant motion. The trial has already shown that satellite internet can deliver where other technologies cannot.
This achievement represents more than a technological milestone as it opens the door to major advances in railway safety, efficiency, and passenger experience. For operators, reliable internet enables real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and faster response in emergencies. For passengers, it paves the way for Wi-Fi on board, digital ticketing, real-time travel updates, and even entertainment streaming—transforming long journeys into more connected and productive experiences.
This pilot is just the beginning. Airtel, working with Eutelsat/OneWeb, is extending Airtel Satellite for Business across Nigeria, DRC, Zambia, Madagascar, and Gabon, bringing high-speed connectivity to some of the most remote parts of Africa.
From oil fields to mining sites—and now moving trains—this successful test shows how satellite technology is redefining what’s possible for African connectivity.
