Eutelsat and Airtel Gabon Bring Satellite Connectivity to Rail Passengers
Eutelsat and Airtel Gabon are expanding rail connectivity services in Gabon, deploying OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity to passenger trains and laying the groundwork for broader rail connectivity solutions across the continent.
Following successful testing in October 2025, which demonstrated satellite internet on moving trains reaching speeds of up to 100 Mbps across remote terrain, Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO network is now being deployed in partnership with Airtel Gabon to provide passenger Wi-Fi services on the Transgabon Railway.
The Gabonese Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalisation and Innovation and the Ministry of Transport, Merchant Marine and Logistics are implementing the deployment as part of a national initiative, in collaboration with the Transgabon Railway Operating Company (SETRAG).
Modernising Public Transport Infrastructure
By extending LEO connectivity to rail transport, the project will support Gabon’s efforts to integrate digital services into public transportation, modernise the railway experience, and enhance passenger comfort, whilst enabling reliable broadband services along long-distance routes beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
Philippe Baudrier, Vice President Africa at Eutelsat, commented: “This deployment with Airtel Gabon reflects Eutelsat’s commitment to extending the benefits of OneWeb LEO connectivity in support of national digital initiatives. It also reinforces our partnership with Airtel and establishes a strong foundation for additional rail connectivity projects across Africa. By enabling reliable broadband services on passenger trains, we are contributing to the modernisation of public transport infrastructure and an improved travel experience for rail passengers in Gabon.”
Thomas Herbert Gutjahr, Airtel Gabon Managing Director, added: “Working with Eutelsat, the government, and national partners such as SETRAG, we are supporting the delivery of onboard connectivity services that enhance passenger comfort and support the integration of digital services into Gabon’s rail network. This project reflects our broader commitment to supporting the country’s highest authorities in their vision for innovation and digital transformation across the country.”
Expanding Presence Across Africa
This deployment marks a significant expansion of Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO services across Africa, demonstrating the Group’s strategic commitment to partnering with governments and telecommunications operators in developing critical digital infrastructure for transport and public services.
The Gabon rail connectivity deployment follows Eutelsat’s continued expansion across Africa, including a separate multiyear agreement signed in November 2025 with Paratus Group to extend OneWeb LEO connectivity services across South Africa, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia, showcasing the Group’s comprehensive approach to bridging the digital divide across the region.