Latest news with #A2G
Mid East Info
18-05-2025
- Automotive
- Mid East Info
AUTONOMOUS A2Z Becomes First Korean Company to Obtain Singapore's M1 Autonomous Vehicle License - Middle East Business News and Information
Singapore, May 19, 2025 — AUTONOMOUS A2Z, South Korea's leading autonomous driving technology firm led by CEO Ji-hyeong Han, announced today that it has successfully obtained the Milestone 1 (M1) Vehicle Safety Assessment approval from Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA). This achievement marks AUTONOMOUS A2Z as the first Korean company authorized to operate autonomous vehicles (AVs) on public roads in Singapore under specific designated conditions. In Singapore, autonomous vehicles must pass rigorous Milestone 1 (M1) safety assessments administered by the Centre of Excellence for Testing and Research of Autonomous Vehicles (CETRAN) AV Test Centre, developed in collaboration with LTA and the Traffic Police. These assessments ensure AVs, including Class 3, Class 4, and Autonomous Emergency Service Vehicles (AESVs), adhere to Singapore's stringent safety and performance standards before operating on public roads. AUTONOMOUS A2Z achieved this landmark approval due to its extensive operational experience developed through significant autonomous vehicle testing in complex urban settings across South Korea. The company is currently the leading AV company with the most number of AV permits from a single company and accumulating over 620,000 kilometers in real-world autonomous driving—representing the highest cumulative autonomous driving distance recorded in the country. This milestone is particularly notable given that AUTONOMOUS A2Z transitioned successfully from South Korea's left-hand driving infrastructure to Singapore's right-hand driving environment, demonstrating exceptional technical adaptability and international scalability. Despite lacking right-hand traffic conditions domestically, the company proactively developed and validated its autonomous driving software for right-hand drive operations using K-City, a dedicated government-supported test facility managed by the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (KATRI). This process involved reconfiguring core perception algorithms, sensor configurations, and decision-making logic to adapt to right-hand driving standards. The M1 assessment approval was facilitated through Autonomous2Global Innovations (A2G), AUTONOMOUS A2Z's local joint venture established in partnership with KILSA Global in Singapore. A2G played a crucial role in addressing Singapore's requirements for the AV authorisation criteria. Building on this achievement, AUTONOMOUS A2Z plans to expand the international deployment of its Level 4 autonomous shuttle, ROii, and actively pursue additional AV pilot initiatives and commercial projects in Singapore. The company is also looking to extend its validated right-hand drive autonomous software stack to other markets with similar driving environments, including Japan. 'Securing Singapore's AV Authorisation approval is a significant validation of AUTONOMOUS A2Z's technological capability and scalability on the global stage,' said CEO Ji-hyeong Han. 'We remain committed to advancing innovation and contributing significantly to Korea's leadership in the global autonomous vehicle industry.' In 2024, AUTONOMOUS A2Z established Autonomous2Global Innovations (A2G), a strategic joint venture with KILSA Global in Singapore. Through A2G, the company delivered a key work package for COSMO, a government-led R&D smart mobility initiative. Additionally, the company deployed its LiDAR Infrastructure System (LIS) at CETRAN, further underscoring its commitment to advancing autonomous vehicle infrastructure. In the Middle East, AUTONOMOUS A2Z is finalizing preparations for the launch of A2D, a joint venture with Space42, the mobility subsidiary of G42—UAE's premier AI conglomerate and former operator of Bayanat. This initiative represents the first Korean-led autonomous driving joint venture in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. About AUTONOMOUS A2Z Founded in 2018 by Ji-hyeong Han and three fellow autonomous driving engineers formerly with Hyundai Motor Company, AUTONOMOUS A2Z is South Korea's leading autonomous driving solution provider. The company currently operates the nation's largest fleet ofautonomous vehicles and holds the longest cumulative autonomous driving record in urban environments, having driven over 620,000 kilometers on public roads as of March 2025. Building on this foundation, AUTONOMOUS A2Z is developing a range of future mobility services, including urban autonomous shuttles and smart logistics transportation solutions, with a focus on safe and efficient commercialization of autonomous driving technology.
Broadcast Pro
18-02-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
SKYFive Arabia and AITA partner to introduce IFC for Egyptian airlines
Under this agreement, AITA will deliver IFC services to all Egyptian airlines, utilising SKYFive's A2G technology, which has been deployed across Europe for several years. SKYFive Arabia, a subsidiary of SCIT Group, has partnered with Africa for Information Technology and Aviation (AITA) to launch In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) services for airlines operating in Egypt. This collaboration aims to enhance aviation connectivity in the region through Air-to-Ground (A2G) technology. Under the agreement, AITA will provide IFC services using SKYFives advanced European A2G technology, which has already been successfully deployed across Europe. This innovation will enable high-speed broadband connectivity for passengers and crew, significantly improving the in-flight experience and airline operations. Despite the rapid growth of the aviation sector in the Middle East and Africa, inflight connectivity has remained limited due to high costs and technological constraints. To address this, SCIT Group is making a major investment in the region through SKYFive Arabia, aiming to equip airlines with cutting-edge A2G solutions and expand the necessary infrastructure, including in Egypt. The initiative will place Egypt at the forefront of IFC technology adoption, aligning its aviation industry with top-tier global airlines that already utilise SKYFives system via Viasats European Aviation Network (EAN). Egyptian airlines will also benefit from continuous connectivity over Europe through the SKYFive/Viasat Roaming Agreement. Negotiations with major Egyptian airlines are underway, with implementation expected soon. The first commercial aircraft equipped with A2G technology is scheduled to launch on an international route between Egypt and Saudi Arabia by the end of 2025. Egypts A2G network is projected to serve over 25m passengers annually, particularly those flying on low-cost carriers between key destinations in Europe, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. To support this initiative, a regional hub will be established in Egypt, serving as a centre of excellence for aviation engineers. This hub will focus on network and aircraft monitoring, maintenance, and compliance, while also fostering local talent development and supporting regional expansion efforts. Aircraft connect through a network on the ground that creates a high-performance low-latency grid serving the sky based on proven cellular technology. Passengers can anticipate a seamless surfing experience with high speeds and minimal latencies, thanks to the latest connectivity technology employed by SKYFive Arabia. The incorporation of lightweight technology not only ensures efficiency but also mitigates weight and drag, contributing to reduced fuel consumption and environmental sustainability. Commenting on the deal, Mohamed Al Haddad, CEO of AITA, said: 'This agreement with SKYFive Arabia is a transformative milestone for Egypts aviation sector. By deploying advanced A2G technology, we are not only enhancing the passenger experience but also positioning Egypt as a regional hub for innovation and connectivity. This partnership reflects our commitment to driving digital transformation and creating economic opportunities.' Mohamed K. AbdelRehim, SCIT Group CEO & SKYFive Arabia CEO, added: 'We are delighted to collaborate with AITA on this ambitious initiative. Our investment in advanced A2G technology will revolutionise aviation connectivity in Egypt and beyond. By targeting key routes to Europe, Saudi Arabia, and the Middle East, we aim to create a scalable model that benefits passengers, airlines, and the broader economy. This partnership underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.'
Zawya
13-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
With a $10mln investment, AITA partners with Arabia SKYFive to provide high-speed connectivity services on aircraft
Mohamed El Haddad: We Aim to Localize Aviation Software Industry and Enhance In-Flight Services in Egypt The Partnership Supports Egypt's Vision to Become a Leading Regional Hub for Innovation in Aviation Communications AITA Introduces Cutting-Edge In-Flight Internet Technology, Positioning Egypt on the Global Innovation Map Cairo/Riyadh – AITA (Africa for Information Technology and Aviation), a leading company in aviation IT solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Arabia SKYFive, a subsidiary of SCIT Group, to provide high-speed in-flight connectivity (IFC) services for airlines in Egypt. The collaboration will leverage the latest air-to-ground (A2G) communication technology, marking a significant advancement in aerial connectivity across the region. A Milestone in Egypt's Aviation IT Sector AITA is an Egyptian entity established through a partnership between Edge Com and The Egyptian African Development for Projects, with the goal of positioning Egypt as a regional hub for in-flight internet technology, including A2G services. Through this partnership, AITA will offer Egyptian airlines high-speed broadband connectivity, ensuring seamless and instant responsiveness for both passengers and crew. This will be achieved using the latest European A2G technology developed by the German company SKYFive, which has already been successfully deployed across Europe. This state-of-the-art connectivity solution will enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and increase aircraft asset value, making Egyptian aviation industry globally competitive. By adopting next-generation international communication technologies, Egypt will be on equal footing with top-tier global airlines that are already using SKYFive technology through the European Aviation Network (EAN) operated by Viasat. Moreover, Egyptian airlines will now benefit from uninterrupted connectivity across Europe via a roaming agreement between SKYFive and Viasat. Aviation Digital Transformation in Egypt & Africa The partnership between AITA and Arabia SKYFive represents a transformative step for the aviation sector in Egypt and Africa. It will enable seamless access to information and entertainment for passengers without interfering with aircraft systems. The first commercial aircraft equipped with this technology is expected to operate an international flight between Egypt and Saudi Arabia before the end of 2025, significantly enhancing Egypt's status as a regional leader in modern aviation services. With the implementation of the A2G network in Egypt, over 25 million passengers annually—especially those traveling on low-cost airlines to and from Europe, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the broader Middle East—will experience unprecedented connectivity. The collaboration is projected to attract substantial foreign investments, starting with an initial investment of $10 million, with further expansions planned over the next three years. This will boost the aviation sector in Egypt and the region, making it more competitive and technologically advanced. Establishing a Regional Aviation Center in Egypt As part of the agreement, a Regional Aviation Center will be established in Egypt to support the aviation sector with cutting-edge solutions and a highly skilled workforce. This initiative aims to bring together top-tier aviation engineers to advance aviation technology development in the country, reinforcing Egypt's role as a key player in the global aviation industry, enhance the development of Egyptian talent, and contribute to the planned regional expansion of AITA and SkyFive Arabia. This center is set to enhance aviation services through key activities, including network and aircraft monitoring, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, line maintenance, and storage management, ensuring full compliance with airworthiness regulations. Advanced A2G Technology from SKYFive Aircraft connect through a ground-based network that establishes a high-performance, cost-effective system serving the skies, leveraging proven cellular technology. Passengers can expect a seamless browsing experience with high speeds and minimal latency, thanks to the latest communication technologies used by SkyFive Arabia. The integration of lightweight technology not only enhances efficiency but also reduces weight and drag, contributing to lower fuel consumption and improved environmental sustainability. AITA Leads a Technological Revolution in In-Flight Internet, Placing Egypt on the Global Innovation Map Engineer Mohamed El Haddad, CEO of AITA, emphasized that the company aims to expand its partnerships to cover all airlines in Egypt, reinforcing the country's position as a regional hub for IT solutions in the field of in-flight internet. El Haddad explained that AITA is focused on training and equipping Egyptian professionals with the latest A2G in-flight internet technologies. Additionally, the company is working on localizing software development and technological solutions for aircraft, enabling Egypt to offer advanced digital solutions to airlines. He further highlighted that the latest technology in this sector is not only about enhancing in-flight connectivity but also paving the way for the development of small and medium-sized aircraft, thereby boosting the competitiveness of the Egyptian aviation market. El Haddad added that the collaboration with SkyFive is a strategic step toward empowering the aviation sector in Egypt and Africa with the latest digital connectivity solutions. This initiative aligns with Egypt's vision of becoming a regional leader in airborne communication innovation. "This partnership reflects our commitment to driving digital transformation, creating economic opportunities, and enhancing the quality of in-flight services for Egyptian airlines," he stated. On his part, Mohamed Abdelrahim, CEO of SCIT Group and CEO of SkyFive Arabia, stated: "We are excited to collaborate with AITA on this ambitious initiative. Our investment in advanced A2G technology will revolutionize airborne connectivity in Egypt and beyond. By targeting key routes to Europe, Saudi Arabia, and the Middle East, we aim to develop a scalable model that benefits travelers, airlines, and the broader economy. This partnership reaffirms our dedication to innovation and sustainable growth." To mark this occasion, Magdy Darwish, Chairman of AITA, highlighted the company's ambitious expansion plan to introduce in-flight internet technology across Africa. He emphasized the company's commitment to equipping airlines with the latest connectivity solutions to enhance passenger experiences and support commercial and private aviation operations. Darwish further noted that the widespread adoption of this technology in Egypt and Africa would play a pivotal role in strengthening digital infrastructure and driving a transformative shift in the aviation sector. About AITA: AITA is a leading provider of aviation technology solutions, dedicated to driving innovation and efficiency in the aviation sector. By focusing on delivering cutting-edge solutions, AITA plays a key role in reshaping how passengers and airlines experience air travel.
