Intelsat (INTEQ) 20-F 28 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report (foreign) Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016shares
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	20-F
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	I
Entity Registrant Name	INTELSAT S.A.
Entity Central Index Key	1,525,773
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	118,028,651

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 666,024	$ 171,541
Receivables, net of allowance of $37,178 in 2015 and $54,744 in 2016	203,036	232,775
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	55,908	35,784
Total current assets	924,968	440,100
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	6,185,842	5,988,317
Goodwill	2,620,627	2,620,627
Non-amortizable intangible assets	2,452,900	2,452,900
Amortizable intangible assets, net	391,838	440,330
Other assets	365,834	311,316
Total assets	12,942,009	12,253,590
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	215,987	164,381
Taxes payable	16,733	11,742
Employee related liabilities	50,178	35,361
Accrued interest payable	204,840	161,493
Deferred satellite performance incentives	23,455	19,411
Deferred revenue	157,684	108,779
Other current liabilities	64,786	63,275
Total current liabilities	733,663	564,442
Long-term debt, net of current portion	14,198,084	14,611,379
Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion	210,706	162,177
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	906,744	1,010,242
Deferred income taxes	168,445	160,802
Accrued retirement benefits	186,284	195,385
Other long-term liabilities	148,081	169,516
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 15 and 16)
Shareholders' deficit:
Common shares; nominal value $0.01 per share	1,180	1,076
5.75% Series A mandatory convertible junior non-voting preferred shares; nominal value $0.01 per share; aggregate liquidation preference of $172,500 ($50 per share)		35
Paid-in capital	2,156,911	2,133,891
Accumulated deficit	(5,715,931)	(6,706,128)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(76,305)	(78,439)
Total Intelsat S.A. shareholders' deficit	(3,634,145)	(4,649,565)
Noncontrolling interest	24,147	29,212
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	$ 12,942,009	$ 12,253,590

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Receivables, allowance	$ 54,744	$ 37,178
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred shares, aggregate liquidation preference	$ 172,500	$ 172,500
Preferred shares, aggregate liquidation preference, per share	$ 50	$ 50

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 550,694	$ 542,727	$ 541,983	$ 552,643	$ 571,259	$ 580,847	$ 598,109	$ 602,306	$ 2,188,047	$ 2,352,521	$ 2,472,386
Operating expenses:
Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization)									341,147	328,501	348,348
Selling, general and administrative									231,397	199,412	197,407
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles					4,200,000					4,165,400
Depreciation and amortization									694,891	687,729	679,351
Total operating expenses									1,267,435	5,381,042	1,225,106
Income (loss) from operations	233,705	220,410	227,324	239,173	(3,897,122)	284,999	290,842	292,762	920,612	(3,028,521)	1,247,280
Interest expense (income), net									938,501	890,279	944,787
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt									1,030,092	7,061	(40,423)
Other income (expense), net									(2,105)	(6,201)	(2,593)
Income (loss) before income taxes									1,010,098	(3,917,940)	259,477
Provision for income taxes									15,986	1,513	22,971
Net income (loss)	663,803	196,605	117,412	16,292	(4,115,321)	78,967	61,236	55,665	994,112	(3,919,453)	236,506
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest									(3,915)	(3,934)	(3,974)
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A.	662,820	195,622	116,429	15,326	(4,116,306)	77,982	60,220	54,717	990,197	(3,923,387)	232,532
Cumulative preferred dividends										(9,919)	(9,917)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders	$ 662,820	$ 195,622	$ 116,429	$ 15,326	$ (4,116,306)	$ 77,982	$ 50,301	$ 54,717	$ 990,197	$ (3,933,306)	$ 222,615
Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A.:
Basic	$ 5.62	$ 1.66	$ 1.02	$ 0.14	$ (38.29)	$ 0.73	$ 0.47	$ 0.51	$ 8.65	$ (36.68)	$ 2.09
Diluted	$ 5.56	$ 1.65	$ 0.98	$ 0.13	$ (38.29)	$ 0.66	$ 0.47	$ 0.47	$ 8.36	$ (36.68)	$ 1.99

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 994,112	$ (3,919,453)	$ 236,506
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of unrecognized prior service credits included in net periodic pension costs and other, net of tax	(5)	(248)	(109)
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of unrecognized actuarial loss included in net periodic pension costs, net of tax	2,223	5,244	6,510
Actuarial gain (loss) arising during the year, net of tax	(177)	22,943	(58,403)
Curtailment gain, net of tax of $3.8 million		6,510
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax	285	(21)	258
Reclassification adjustment for realized gain on investments, net of tax	(192)	(340)	(390)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2,134	34,088	(52,134)
Comprehensive income (loss)	996,246	(3,885,365)	184,372
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(3,915)	(3,934)	(3,974)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A.	$ 992,331	$ (3,889,299)	$ 180,398

Consolidated Statements of Com6

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Curtailment gain, net of tax	$ 3.8

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Deficit - USD ($) shares in Millions	Total	Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Intelsat S.A. Shareholders' Deficit [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013		$ 35,000	$ 1,060,000	$ 2,099,218,000	$ (3,015,273,000)	$ (60,393,000)	$ (975,353,000)	$ 40,686,000
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013		3.5	106
Net income (loss)	$ 232,532,000				232,532,000		232,532,000	3,974,000
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests								(8,744,000)
Share-based compensation			$ 7,000	26,382,000			26,389,000
Share-based compensation (in Shares)			0.7
Declaration of preferred stock dividend		$ (9,917,000)		(9,917,000)			(9,917,000)
Acquisition of non-controlling interests				2,215,000			2,215,000	(2,215,000)
Postretirement/pension liability adjustment, net of tax						(52,002,000)	(52,002,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax						(132,000)	(132,000)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014		$ 35,000	$ 1,067,000	2,117,898,000	(2,782,741,000)	(112,527,000)	(776,268,000)	33,701,000
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		3.5	106.7
Net income (loss)	(3,923,387,000)				(3,923,387,000)		(3,923,387,000)	3,934,000
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	(8,423,000)							(8,423,000)
Share-based compensation	25,921,000		$ 9,000	25,912,000			25,921,000
Share-based compensation (in Shares)			0.9
Declaration of preferred stock dividend	(9,919,000)	$ (9,919,000)		(9,919,000)			(9,919,000)
Postretirement/pension liability adjustment, net of tax						27,939,000	27,939,000
Curtailment gain, net of tax of $3.8 million	6,510,000					6,510,000	6,510,000
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(361,000)					(361,000)	(361,000)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	(4,649,565,000)	$ 35,000	$ 1,076,000	2,133,891,000	(6,706,128,000)	(78,439,000)	(4,649,565,000)	29,212,000
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015		3.5	107.6
Net income (loss)	990,197,000				990,197,000		990,197,000	3,915,000
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	(8,980,000)							(8,980,000)
Share-based compensation	23,089,000		$ 8,000	23,081,000			23,089,000
Share-based compensation (in Shares)			0.8
Preferred shares conversion, value		$ (35,000)	$ 96,000	(61,000)
Preferred shares conversion, shares		(3.5)	9.6
Postretirement/pension liability adjustment, net of tax						2,041,000	2,041,000
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	93,000					93,000	93,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ (3,634,145,000)		$ 1,180,000	$ 2,156,911,000	$ (5,715,931,000)	$ (76,305,000)	$ (3,634,145,000)	$ 24,147,000
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2016			118

Consolidated Statements of Cha8

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Deficit (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Curtailment gain, net of tax		$ 3.8
Intelsat S.A. Shareholders' Deficit [Member]
Postretirement/pension liability adjustment, tax	$ 1	16.5	$ (30.3)
Curtailment gain, net of tax		3.8
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax	$ 0.2	$ (0.2)	$ 0.1

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 994,112	$ (3,919,453)	$ 236,506
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles		4,165,400
Depreciation and amortization	694,891	687,729	679,351
Provision for doubtful accounts	24,591	7,432	2,306
Foreign currency transaction (gain) loss	(3,300)	11,374	6,560
Loss on disposal of assets	20	16	927
Share-based compensation	23,222	25,768	22,494
Deferred income taxes	(9,737)	(9,348)	(12,646)
Amortization of discount, premium, issuance costs and related costs	24,622	20,119	22,256
(Gain) loss on early extinguishment of debt	(1,030,092)	(7,061)	40,423
Unrealized gains on derivative financial instruments	(764)	(24,024)	(22,790)
Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service credits for retirement benefits	3,361	7,899	10,147
Other non-cash items	1,186	75	166
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables	6,478	(34,642)	1,382
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(51,321)	(25,780)	(22,331)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	35,850	1,542	7,598
Accrued interest payable	47,065	(2)	(24,997)
Deferred revenue	(58,796)	51,805	108,545
Accrued retirement benefits	(9,385)	(20,707)	(26,019)
Other long-term liabilities	(8,497)	(28,111)	16,292
Net cash provided by operating activities	683,506	910,031	1,046,170
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest)	(714,570)	(724,362)	(645,424)
Purchase of cost method investments	(4,000)	(25,000)
Capital contribution to unconsolidated affiliates	(10,340)
Other investing activities	(1,679)	8	174
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(730,589)	(749,354)	(645,250)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	1,250,000	430,000	135,000
Repayments of long-term debt	(328,944)	(496,829)	(610,418)
Debt issuance costs	(38,393)
Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt	(32)		(21,250)
Payments on tender, debt exchange and consent	(293,276)
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders	(4,959)	(9,919)	(9,919)
Other payments for satellites	(18,333)
Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives	(17,429)	(19,568)	(19,774)
Capital contribution from noncontrolling interest			12,209
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest	(8,980)	(8,423)	(8,744)
Other financing activities	1,942	1,753	3,893
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	541,596	(102,986)	(519,003)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(30)	(9,297)	(6,560)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	494,483	48,394	(124,643)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	171,541	123,147	247,790
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	666,024	171,541	123,147
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	870,370	894,465	970,345
Income taxes paid, net of refunds	22,687	26,324	37,805
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing activities:
Accrued capital expenditures	127,008	82,208	80,621
Capitalization of deferred satellite performance incentives	69,909	$ 16,800	$ 27,681
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing activities:
Debt financing and restricted cash received	480,200
Restricted cash used	(480,200)
Repayments of long-term debt	1,468,401
Issuance of long-term debt	(731,884)
Discount on long-term debt	212,660
Write-off of debt issuance costs	$ (9,253)

Background of Company

Background of Company	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Background of Company	Note 1 Background of Company Intelsat S.A. (the “Company”, “we”,” us” or “our”) provides satellite communications services worldwide through a global communications network of approximately 50 satellites and ground facilities related to the satellite operations and control, and teleport services. Recent Developments On February 28, 2017, Intelsat entered into a combination agreement with WorldVu Satellites Limited (“OneWeb”) (the “Combination Agreement”) pursuant to which, and subject to the terms and conditions thereof, OneWeb will merge with and into Intelsat, with Intelsat being the surviving entity (the “Merger”). OneWeb is the builder of a new Low Earth Orbit (“LEO”) global communications system. Also on February 28, 2017, the Company entered into a share purchase agreement with SoftBank Group Corp. (“SoftBank”) (the “Share Purchase Agreement”) pursuant to which, and subject to the terms and conditions thereof, SoftBank will acquire common shares and nonvoting redeemable convertible preferred shares of the Company for aggregate cash consideration of $1.7 billion (the “SoftBank Investment” and, together with the Merger, the “Transactions”). Under the terms of the Combination Agreement, at the effective time of the Merger, each common share of OneWeb issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time will be converted into the right to receive common shares of Intelsat. Intelsat’s shareholders will retain the common shares of Intelsat that they currently hold. Based on the terms of the transactions announced on February 28, 2017, current Intelsat shareholders are expected to hold approximately 19% of the common shares of Intelsat following completion of the Transaction. Consummation of the Merger pursuant to the Combination Agreement, and of the SoftBank Investment pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement, are cross-conditioned on one another. Consummation of the Merger and the SoftBank Investment also are subject to Intelsat’s subsidiaries completing certain debt exchange offers, as well as certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The proceeds of the SoftBank Investment will be used in part to fund the cash payments to be made at closing of the Transactions to bondholders that participate in the exchange offers. The Combination Agreement and the Share Purchase Agreement (together, the “Transaction Agreements”), each provide that any party thereto may terminate such agreement if sufficient tenders are not received in the exchange offers within 90 days of the date of the agreements. Shareholders of the Company and shareholders of OneWeb have agreed to vote sufficient shares in favor of the Transactions in order to obtain the required shareholder approvals. The Company expects to complete the Transactions late in the third quarter of 2017. There can be no assurance that the Transactions will be completed, or whether the terms will be amended from those described above.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	Note 2 Significant Accounting Policies (a) Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Intelsat S.A., its wholly-owned subsidiaries, and variable interest entities (“VIE”) of which we are the primary beneficiary. We are the primary beneficiary of one VIE, as more fully described in Note 10—Investments, and accordingly, we include in our consolidated financial statements the assets and liabilities and results of operations of the entity, even though we may not own a majority voting interest. We use the equity method to account for our investments in entities where we exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies but do not retain control under either the voting interest model (generally 20% to 50% ownership interest) or the variable interest model. In 2015, we entered into a joint venture agreement as further described in Note 10—Investments, and the investment is accounted for using the equity method. We have eliminated all significant intercompany accounts and transactions. (b) Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods, and the disclosures of contingent liabilities. Accordingly, ultimate results could differ from those estimates. (c) Revenue Recognition We earn revenue from providing satellite services and managed services to customers. We enter into contracts with customers to provide satellite transponders and transponder capacity and, in certain cases, earth stations and teleport facilities, for periods typically ranging from one year to the life of the satellite. Our revenue recognition policies are as follows: Satellite Utilization Charges. Satellite Related Consulting and Technical Services. Tracking, Telemetry and Commanding (“TT&C”). In-Orbit Backup Services. Revenue Share Arrangements. We may sell these products or services individually or in some combination to our customers. When these products and services are sold together, we account for the multiple elements under FASB ASC Topic 605-25, Revenue Recognition-Multiple Element Arrangements (d) Fair Value Measurements We estimate the fair value of our financial instruments using available market information and valuation methodologies. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate their fair values because of the short maturity of these financial instruments. FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels as follows: • Level 1—unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; • Level 2—quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs other than quoted market prices that are observable or that can be corroborated by observable market data by correlation; and • Level 3—unobservable inputs based upon the reporting entity’s internally developed assumptions which market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. (e) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, which are generally time deposits with banks and money market funds. The carrying amount of these investments approximates market value. (f) Receivables and Allowances for Doubtful Accounts We provide satellite services and extend credit to numerous customers in the satellite communication, telecommunications and video markets. We monitor our exposure to credit losses and maintain allowances for doubtful accounts and anticipated losses. We believe we have adequate customer collateral and reserves to cover our exposure. If we determine that the collection of payments is not reasonably assured at the time the respective service is provided, we defer recognition of the revenue until we believe collection is reasonably assured or the payment is received. (g) Satellites and Other Property and Equipment Satellites and other property and equipment are stated at historical cost, or in the case of certain satellites acquired, the fair value at the date of acquisition. Capitalized costs consist primarily of the costs of satellite construction and launch, including launch insurance and insurance during the period of in-orbit testing, the net present value of performance incentives expected to be payable to the satellite manufacturers (dependent on the continued satisfactory performance of the satellites), costs directly associated with the monitoring and support of satellite construction, and interest costs incurred during the period of satellite construction. We depreciate satellites and other property and equipment on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives: Years Buildings and improvements 10 - 40 Satellites and related costs 11 - 17 Ground segment equipment and software 4 - 15 Furniture and fixtures and computer hardware 4 - 12 Leasehold improvements (1) 2 - 12 (1) Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the improvement or the remaining lease term. (h) Other Assets Other assets consist of investments in certain equity securities, long-term deposits, long-term receivables and other miscellaneous deferred charges and long-term assets. (i) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets We account for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other Intangible assets arising from business combinations are initially recorded at fair value. We record other intangible assets at cost. We amortize intangible assets with determinable lives (consisting of backlog and customer relationships) based on the expected pattern of consumption. We review these intangible assets for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. See Note 11—Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. (j) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets We review long-lived assets, including property and equipment and acquired intangible assets with estimable useful lives, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such an asset may not be recoverable. These indicators of impairment can include, but are not limited to, the following: • satellite anomalies, such as a partial or full loss of power; • under-performance of an asset compared to expectations; and • shortened useful lives due to changes in the way an asset is used or expected to be used. The recoverability of an asset to be held and used is determined by comparing the carrying amount to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, we record an impairment charge in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, which we determine by either a quoted market price, if any, or a value determined by utilizing discounted cash flow techniques. (k) Income Taxes We account for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740— Income Taxes We regularly assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets can be recovered. A valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We evaluate the recoverability of our deferred tax assets based in part on the existence of deferred tax liabilities that can be used to realize the deferred tax assets. During the ordinary course of business, there are transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. We evaluate our tax positions to determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position is sustainable, based solely on its technical merits and presuming the taxing authorities have full knowledge of the position and access to all relevant facts and information. When a tax position does not meet the more likely than not standard, we record a liability or contra asset for the entire amount of the unrecognized tax benefit. Additionally, for those tax positions that are determined more likely than not to be sustainable, we measure the tax position at the largest amount of benefit more likely than not (determined by cumulative probability) to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority. (l) Foreign Currency Translation Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar, since substantially all customer contracts, capital expenditure contracts and operating expense obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars. Transactions not denominated in U.S. dollars have been translated using the spot rates of exchange at the dates of the transactions. We recognize differences on exchange arising on the settlement of the transactions denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar in the consolidated statement of operations. (m) Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income consists of net income or loss and other gains and losses affecting shareholders’ equity that, under U.S. GAAP, are excluded from net income or loss. Such items consist primarily of the change in the market value of available-for-sale securities and pension liability adjustments. (n) Share-Based Compensation Compensation cost is recognized based on the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation Awards are measured at the grant date based on the fair value as calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model for share options, a Monte Carlo simulation model for awards with market conditions, or the closing market price at the grant date for awards of shares or restricted shares units. The expense is recognized over the requisite service period, based on attainment of certain vesting requirements. The determination of the value of certain awards requires considerable judgment, including estimating expected volatility, expected term and risk-free rate. The Company’s expected volatility is based on the average volatility rates of similar actively-traded companies over the range of each award’s estimated expected term, which is based on the midpoint between the expected vesting time and the remaining contractual life. The risk-free rate is derived from the applicable Constant Maturity Treasury rate. (o) Deferred Satellite Performance Incentives The cost of satellite construction may include an element of deferred consideration that we are obligated to pay to satellite manufacturers over the lives of the satellites, provided the satellites continue to operate in accordance with contractual specifications. Historically, the satellite manufacturers have earned substantially all of these payments. Therefore, we account for these payments as deferred financing. We capitalize the present value of these payments as part of the cost of the satellites and record a corresponding liability to the satellite manufacturers. Interest expense is recognized on the deferred financing and the liability is reduced as the payments are made. (p) Derivative Instruments We previously held undesignated interest rate swaps which matured in January 2016. The swaps were marked-to-market quarterly, with any change in fair value recorded as interest expense, net. In December 2016, we accounted for a contingent put option embedded within Intelsat Connect Finance S.A.’s (“ICF’s”) 12 1 2 Derivatives and Hedging (q) New Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) Revenue Recognition • In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date • In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) • In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing ASU 2014-09 • In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients • In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The standard affects certain narrow aspects of the guidance issued in ASU 2014-09. We are still in the process of evaluating the impact that these standards will have on our consolidated financial statements and associated disclosures, and have not yet selected a transition method. Based on our initial assessment, we believe that the main changes from the new revenue standard will include: adjustments to the promised amount of consideration for effects of the time value of money for prepayment contracts with a significant financing component; capitalization of incremental costs for obtaining a contract; allocation of transaction price to all performance obligations in arrangements, irrespective of whether goods or services are provided before consideration is paid; changes to the accounting for contract modifications; and additional disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force) In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment

Share Capital

Share Capital	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Share Capital	Note 3 Share Capital Under our Articles of Incorporation, we have an authorized share capital of $10.0 million, represented by 1.0 billion shares of any class with a nominal value of $0.01 per share. At December 31, 2016, there were 118.0 million common shares issued and outstanding. On May 1, 2016, each of our Series A Preferred Shares automatically converted into 2.7778 common shares, based on the average of the closing prices per common share over the 40 trading day period ending on the third trading day prior to the mandatory conversion date. The automatic conversion for a total of 9.6 million new common shares was recorded on May 2, 2016.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income (Loss) per Share	Note 4 Net Income (Loss) per Share Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A.’s common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the periods. In 2014 and 2015, the shareholders of Intelsat S.A. declared a $9.9 million dividend for each respective year to be paid to holders of our Series A Preferred Shares in four equal installments. The final installment of $0.71875 per share was paid on May 2, 2016 to the holders of record as of April 15, 2016. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.: (in thousands, except per share data or where otherwise noted) Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Numerator: Net income (loss) $ 236,506 $ (3,919,453 ) $ 994,112 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest (3,974 ) (3,934 ) (3,915 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. 232,532 (3,923,387 ) 990,197 Less: Preferred Shares dividends declared (9,917 ) (9,919 ) — Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders $ 222,615 $ (3,933,306 ) $ 990,197 Numerator for Basic EPS—income/(loss) available to common shareholders $ 222,615 $ (3,933,306 ) $ 990,197 Dilutive effect of Preferred shares 9,917 — — Numerator for Diluted EPS $ 232,532 $ (3,933,306 ) $ 990,197 Denominator: Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 106.5 107.2 114.5 Weighted average dilutive shares outstanding (in millions): Preferred shares (in millions) 9.6 — 3.2 Employee compensation related shares including options and restricted stock units (in millions) 0.6 — 0.8 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 116.7 107.2 118.5 Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A. $ 2.09 $ (36.68 ) $ 8.65 Diluted net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A. $ 1.99 $ (36.68 ) $ 8.36 Due to a net loss in the year ended December 31, 2015, there were no dilutive securities, and therefore, basic and diluted EPS were the same. The weighted average number of shares that could potentially dilute basic EPS in the future was 1.4 million, 5.1 million and 6.2 million (consisting of restricted share units and options to purchase common shares) for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. Further, there were 9.6 million weighted average common shares resulting from the potential conversion of Series A Preferred Shares for the year ended December 31, 2015, that could have diluted basic EPS in future periods.

Share-Based and Other Compensat

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans	Note 5 Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans In April 2013, our board of directors adopted the amended and restated Intelsat Global, Ltd. 2008 Share Incentive Plan (as amended, the “2008 Equity Plan”). Also in April 2013, our board of directors adopted the Intelsat S.A. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2013 Equity Plan”). No new awards may be granted under the 2008 Equity Plan. The 2013 Equity Plan provides for a variety of equity based awards, including incentive stock options (within the meaning of Section 422 of the United States Internal Revenue Service Tax Code), restricted shares, restricted share units (“RSUs”), other share-based awards and performance compensation awards. Effective June 16, 2016, we increased the aggregate number of common shares authorized for issuance under the 2013 Equity Plan to 20.0 million common shares. The total aggregate number of shares available for future issuance under the 2013 Equity Plan was 10.6 million as of December 31, 2016. For all share-based awards, we recognize the compensation costs over the vesting period during which the employee provides service in exchange for the award. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, we recorded compensation expense of $22.5 million, $25.8 million, and $23.2 million, respectively. Stock Options Stock options generally expire 10 years from the date of grant. In some cases, options have been granted which expire 15 years from the date of grant. The options vest monthly over service periods ranging from two to five years. Stock Option activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of Weighted Average Weighted Average Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 1,163 $ 20.42 Granted 1,500 3.70 Modified—amended options (1) 923 3.77 Modified—original options (1) (923 ) 22.80 Forfeited (80 ) 3.77 Expired (292 ) 9.22 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 2,291 $ 3.82 7.6 $ — Exercisable at December 31, 2016 1,473 $ 3.91 6.8 $ — (1) During the year ended December 31, 2016, 0.5 million stock options under the 2008 Equity Plan and 0.4 million stock options under the 2013 Equity Plan were amended in order to modify the exercise price to $3.77 per option. We measure the fair value of stock options at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. We granted 1.5 million stock options during the year ended December 31, 2016. These options vest over a service period of two or three years. The fair value was measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following assumptions were used: risk-free interest rates of 1.6% to 1.9%; dividend yield of 0.0%; expected volatility of 60%; and expected life of six to seven years. The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $2.25 per option. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015 was $2.6 million and $0.3 million, respectively. No stock options were exercised during the year ended December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, there was $1.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.2 years. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, we recorded compensation expense of $3.0 million, $0.8 million and $2.6 million, respectively, including compensation expense from option modifications in 2014 and 2016, further described below. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, we received cash of $1.0 million and $0.2 million, respectively, from the exercise of stock options. No stock options were exercised during the year ended December 31, 2016. Anti-Dilution Options In connection with the our initial public offering of common shares in April 2013 (the “IPO”) and upon consummation of the IPO, options were granted to certain individuals in accordance with the existing terms of their side letters to a management shareholders agreement to which we are a party, which, when taken together with the common shares received in connection with the reclassification of our outstanding former Class B Shares at the time of our IPO, preserved their ownership interests represented by their outstanding former Class B Shares immediately prior to the reclassification. These options generally expire 10 years from the date of the grant. Anti-Dilution Option activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of Weighted Average Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 2,016 $ 18.00 Modified—amended options (1) 700 4.16 Modified—original options (1) (700 ) 18.00 Expired (406 ) 18.00 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,610 $ 11.98 6.1 $ — Exercisable at December 31, 2016 1,610 $ 11.98 6.1 $ — (1) During the year ended December 31, 2016, 0.7 million anti-dilution stock options under the 2008 Equity Plan were amended in order to modify the exercise price to $4.16 per option. We measure the fair value of anti-dilution option grants at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. There were no anti-dilution options granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016. The total intrinsic value of anti-dilution options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2014 was $0.6 million. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we recorded compensation expense associated with anti-dilution option awards of $4.1 million related to 2014 option modifications further described below. No compensation expense was recorded for these awards during the year ended December 31, 2015. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recorded compensation expense associated with anti-dilution option awards of $1.0 million related to 2016 option modifications further described below. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we received cash of $3.2 million from the exercise of anti-dilution options. There were no anti-dilution options exercised in 2015 or 2016. 2014 Option modifications During the year ended December 31, 2014, 1.9 million stock options, including 1.6 million anti-dilution options, were amended to (a) extend the expiration date by five years; and (b) extend the duration of exercisability from one year to three years after ceasing to be an employee of the company. We estimated an additional expense of $2.52 per option resulting from the amendment, being the difference between the fair value of the amended option and the fair value of the original award before amendment. The fair value was measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following assumptions were used: For the fair value of the amended options: risk-free interest rates of 1.3%; dividend yields of 0.0%; expected volatility of 45%; and expected life of 4.1 years. For the fair value of the original award before amendment: risk-free interest rates of 0.3%; dividend yields of 0.0%; expected volatility of 45%; and expected life of 1.6 years. All such options were fully vested and we recognized an additional compensation expense associated with such options of $4.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, which has been included in the respective sections above. 2016 Option modifications During the year ended December 31, 2016, we amended 1.2 million stock options under the 2008 Equity Plan (including 0.7 million of anti-dilution options), and 0.4 million stock options under the 2013 Equity Plan in order to modify the exercise prices to $4.16 for the anti-dilution options and to $3.77 for the remainder. As a result of the change, we estimated the difference between fair value of the amended options and the fair value of the original awards before settlement. The fair value was measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following assumptions were used for the amended options and the original awards before amendment: risk-free interest rates of 0.8% to 1.5%; dividend yields of 0.0%; expected volatility of 50-60%; and expected life of one to four years. All such options were fully vested and we recognized additional compensation expense associated with the modifications of $2.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, which has been included in the respective sections above. Time-based RSUs Time-based RSUs vest over periods ranging from one to three years from the date of grant. Time-based RSUs activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of RSUs Weighted Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 2,880 $ 16.13 Granted 1,701 1.67 Vested (814 ) 15.70 Forfeited (173 ) 14.42 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 3,594 $ 9.52 1.4 $ 9.6 The fair value of time-based RSUs is deemed to be the market price of common shares on the date of grant. The weighted average grant date fair value of time-based RSUs granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015, and 2016 was $17.45, $11.64, and $1.67, respectively. The total intrinsic value of time-based RSUs vested during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016 was $8.6 million, $8.0 million, and $1.7 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016, there was $14.0 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested time-based RSUs, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.4 years. During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015, and 2016, we recorded compensation expense associated with these time-based RSUs of $13.0 million, $22.8 million, and $17.9 million, respectively. Performance-based RSUs Performance-based RSUs vest after three years from the date of grant upon achievement of certain performance conditions. These grants are subject to vesting upon achievement of an adjusted EBITDA target and achievement of a relative shareholder return (“RSR”), which is based on the Company’s relative shareholder return percentile ranking versus the S&P 900 Index target as defined in the grant agreement. Performance-based RSUs activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of RSUs Weighted Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 1,195 $ 17.48 Granted 1,186 0.94 Cancelled (461 ) 21.96 Forfeited (91 ) 5.62 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,829 $ 6.22 1.6 $ 4.9 We measure the fair value of performance-based RSUs at the date of grant using the market price of our common shares (to measure the award based on an adjusted EBITDA target) and a Monte Carlo simulation model (to measure the award based on an RSR target). The weighted average grant date fair value of performance-based RSUs granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015, and 2016 was $21.48, $8.97, and $0.94, respectively. As of December 31, 2016, there was $1.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested performance-based RSUs, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.6 years. Achievement of the adjusted EBITDA target for awards granted in 2014 and 2015 is not currently considered probable, therefore, no compensation cost associated with these awards (based on the adjusted EBITDA condition) was recognized during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015. We recorded compensation expense associated with the RSR portion of performance-based RSUs of $2.4 million and $2.2 million, during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively. Achievement of the adjusted EBITDA target for awards granted in 2016 is currently considered probable, and we recorded compensation expense associated with these awards (based on the adjusted EBITDA condition and the RSR portion of performance-based RSUs) of $1.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2016.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Note 6 Fair Value Measurements We have identified investments in marketable securities and interest rate financial derivative instruments as those items that meet the criteria of the disclosure requirements and fair value framework of FASB ASC 820. The following tables present assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets on a recurring basis and their level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands), excluding long-term debt (see Note 12—Long-Term Debt). We did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements during the year ended December 31, 2016. Fair Value Measurements at Description As of Quoted Prices in (Level 1) Significant Other Inputs (Level 2) Assets Marketable securities (1) $ 5,486 $ 5,486 $ — Total assets $ 5,486 $ 5,486 $ — Liabilities Undesignated interest rate swaps (2) $ 2,013 $ — $ 2,013 Total liabilities $ 2,013 $ — $ 2,013 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Description As of Quoted Prices in (Level 1) Significant Other Inputs (Level 2) Significant (Level 3) Assets Marketable securities (1) $ 5,381 $ 5,381 $ — $ — Total assets $ 5,381 $ 5,381 $ — $ — Liabilities Put option embedded derivative (3) $ 1,496 $ — $ — $ 1,496 Total liabilities $ 1,496 $ — $ — $ 1,496 (1) The valuation measurement inputs of these marketable securities represent unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and, accordingly, we have classified such investments within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. The cost basis of our available-for-sale marketable securities was $5.3 million at December 31, 2015 and $5.0 million at December 31, 2016. We sold marketable securities with a cost basis of $1.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 and recorded a gain on the sale of $0.1 million, which was included within other expense, net in our consolidated statement of operations. (2) The fair value of our interest rate financial derivative instruments reflects the estimated amounts that we would pay or receive to terminate the agreement at the reporting date, taking into account current interest rates, the market expectation for future interest rates and current creditworthiness of both the counterparties and ourselves. Observable inputs utilized in the income approach valuation technique incorporate identical contractual notional amounts, fixed coupon rates, periodic terms for interest payments and contract maturity. Although we have determined that the majority of the inputs used to value our derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments, if any, associated with our derivatives utilize Level 3 inputs, such as the estimates of the current credit spread, to evaluate the likelihood of default by us or our counterparties. We have assessed the significance of the inputs of the credit valuation adjustments to the overall valuation of our derivative positions and have determined that the credit valuation adjustments are not significant to the valuation of our derivatives. As a result, we have determined that our derivative valuations in their entirety are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. (3) We valued the contingent put option embedded within the 2022 ICF Notes using a valuation technique which reflects the estimated date and probability of a change of control, the fair value of the 2022 ICF Notes, and a credit valuation adjustment reflecting our credit spreads. We identified the inputs used to calculate the fair value as Level 3 inputs and concluded that the valuation in its entirety was classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Retirement Plans and Other Reti

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits	Note 7 Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits (a) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits We maintain a noncontributory defined benefit retirement plan covering substantially all of our employees hired prior to July 19, 2001. The cost of providing benefits to eligible participants under the defined benefit retirement plan is calculated using the plan’s benefit formulas, which take into account the participants’ remuneration, dates of hire, years of eligible service, and certain actuarial assumptions. In addition, as part of the overall medical plan, we provide postretirement medical benefits to certain current retirees who meet the criteria under the medical plan for postretirement benefit eligibility. In the first quarter of 2015, we amended the defined benefit retirement plan to cease the accrual of additional benefits for the remaining active participants effective March 31, 2015, resulting in a curtailment of $10.3 million that decreased both the pension liability and the actuarial loss recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. As a result of the curtailment, all of the plan’s participants are now considered inactive. Accordingly, all amounts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss are being recognized as an increase to net periodic benefit cost over the average remaining life expectancy of plan participants, which is approximately 20 years, beginning in the second quarter of 2015. Also, as a result of the plan amendment, we recognized in our consolidated statements of operations $0.6 million of prior service credits that were previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. The defined benefit retirement plan is subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. We expect that our future contributions to the defined benefit retirement plan will be based on the minimum funding requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and on the plan’s funded status. Any significant decline in the fair value of our defined benefit retirement plan assets or other adverse changes to the significant assumptions used to determine the plan’s funded status would negatively impact its funded status and could result in increased funding in future periods. The impact on the funded status is determined based upon market conditions in effect when we completed our annual valuation. We anticipate that our contributions to the defined benefit retirement plan in 2017 will be approximately $2.9 million. We fund the postretirement medical benefits throughout the year based on benefits paid. We anticipate that our contributions to fund postretirement medical benefits in 2017 will be approximately $4.1 million. Prior service credits and actuarial losses are reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs, which are included in both direct costs of revenue and selling, general and administrative on our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016. The following table presents these reclassifications, net of tax, as well as the reclassification of the realized gain on investments, and the statement of operations line items that are impacted (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Amortization of prior service credits reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs included in: Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) $ (68 ) $ (141 ) $ (3 ) Selling, general and administrative (41 ) (107 ) (2 ) Total $ (109 ) $ (248 ) $ (5 ) Amortization of actuarial loss reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs included in: Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) $ 4,070 $ 3,196 $ 1,372 Selling, general and administrative 2,440 2,048 851 Total $ 6,510 $ 5,244 $ 2,223 Realized (gain) loss on investments included in: Other expense, net $ (390 ) $ (340 ) $ (192 ) Total $ (390 ) $ (340 ) $ (192 ) Reconciliation of Funded Status and Accumulated Benefit Obligation. Year Ended Year Ended Pension Other Post- Pension Other Post- Change in benefit obligation Benefit obligation at beginning of period $ 491,118 $ 116,086 $ 435,462 $ 90,583 Service cost 780 70 — — Interest cost 18,734 4,592 16,183 3,363 Employee contributions — 403 — 422 Plan amendments — (202 ) — — Plan curtailments (10,314 ) — — — Benefits paid (30,204 ) (3,401 ) (30,454 ) (3,310 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (34,652 ) (26,965 ) 3,738 (8,161 ) Benefit obligation at end of period $ 435,462 $ 90,583 $ 424,929 $ 82,897 Change in plan assets Plan assets at beginning of period $ 339,619 $ — $ 326,458 $ — Employer contributions 16,435 2,998 606 2,888 Employee contributions — 403 — 422 Actual return on plan assets 607 — 20,829 — Benefits paid (30,203 ) (3,401 ) (30,454 ) (3,310 ) Plan assets at fair value at end of period $ 326,458 $ — $ 317,439 $ — Accrued benefit costs and funded status of the plans $ (109,004 ) $ (90,583 ) $ (107,490 ) $ (82,897 ) Accumulated benefit obligation $ 435,462 $ 424,929 Weighted average assumptions used to determine accumulated benefit obligation and accrued benefit costs Discount rate 4.53 % 4.50 % 3.82 % 4.19 % Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs Discount rate 4.01 % 4.04 % 4.53 % 4.50 % Expected rate of return on plan assets 7.80 % — 7.80 % — Rate of compensation increase 3.25 % — — — Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss recognized in net periodic benefit cost Actuarial loss, net of tax $ 4,883 $ 361 $ 2,228 $ (5 ) Prior service credits, net of tax (383 ) 135 (8 ) 3 Total $ 4,500 $ 496 $ 2,220 $ (2 ) Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet recognized in net periodic benefit cost Actuarial loss, net of tax $ 84,866 $ (4,320 ) $ 87,981 $ (9,468 ) Prior service credits, net of tax (348 ) — (343 ) — Total $ 84,518 $ (4,320 ) $ 87,638 $ (9,468 ) Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost in the subsequent year Actuarial loss $ (3,370 ) $ — $ (3,751 ) $ — Prior service credits — 8 — 8 Total $ (3,370 ) $ 8 $ (3,751 ) $ 8 Our benefit obligations are discounted along a yield curve that is derived from the monthly bid-price data of bonds that are rated high grade by either Moody’s Investor Service or Standard and Poor’s Rating Services. The bond types included are noncallable bonds, private placement bonds that are traded among qualified institutional buyers and are at least two years from date of issuance, bonds with a make-whole provision, and bonds issued by foreign corporations that are denominated in U.S. dollars. Excluded are bonds that are callable, sinkable and putable as well as those for which the quoted yield-to-maturity is zero. Using the bonds from this universe that have a yield higher than the regression mean yield curve, regression analysis is used to determine the best-fitting curve, which gives a good fit to the data at both long and short maturities. The resulting regressed coupon yield curve is smoothly continuous along its entire length and represents an unbiased average of the observed market data. In the first quarter of 2016, we changed the method we use to estimate the interest cost component of net periodic benefit cost for our defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Historically, we estimated the interest cost component using a single weighted-average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period. We have elected to use a full yield curve approach in the estimation of this component of benefit cost by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. We have made this change to improve the correlation between projected benefit cash flows and the corresponding yield curve spot rates, and to provide a more precise measurement of interest costs. This change does not affect the measurement of our total benefit obligations, as the change in the interest cost is completely offset in the actuarial (gain) loss reported. We have accounted for this change as a change in estimate and, accordingly, have accounted for it prospectively starting in the first quarter of 2016. The discount rate that we used to measure interest cost as of December 31, 2016 was approximately 3.8%. The discount rate that we measured at December 31, 2016 and would have used for interest cost under our prior estimation technique was approximately 4.5%. The reduction in interest cost as of December 31, 2016, associated with this change in estimate was approximately $3.6 million. Interest rates used in these valuations are key assumptions, including discount rates used in determining the present value of future benefit payments and expected return on plan assets, which are reviewed and updated on an annual basis. The discount rates reflect market rates for high-quality corporate bonds. We consider current market conditions, including changes in interest rates, in making assumptions. The Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) issued new mortality and mortality improvement tables in 2014, and modified those tables in 2015 and 2016. Our December 31, 2016 valuation used mortality and improvement tables based on the SOA tables, adjusted to reflect (1) an ultimate rate of mortality improvement consistent with both historical experience and U.S. Social Security long-term projections, and (2) a shorter transition period to reach the ultimate rate, which is consistent with historical patterns. In establishing the expected return on assets assumption, we review the asset allocations considering plan maturity and develop return assumptions based on different asset classes. The return assumptions are established after reviewing historical returns of broader market indexes, as well as historical performance of the investments in the plan. Our pension plan assets are managed in accordance with an investment policy adopted by the pension committee, as discussed below. Plan Assets. The target and actual asset allocation of our pension plan assets were as follows: As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2016 Target Actual Target Actual Asset Category Equity securities 49 % 49 % 49 % 47 % Debt securities 36 % 34 % 36 % 34 % Other securities 15 % 17 % 15 % 19 % Total 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % The fair values of our pension plan assets by asset category are as follows (in thousands): Fair Value Measurements at Fair Value Measurements at Asset Category Equity Securities U.S. Large-Cap (1) $ 87,383 $ 80,698 U.S. Small/Mid-Cap (2) 22,121 22,184 World Equity Ex-US (3) 51,720 46,999 Fixed Income Securities Short Duration Bonds (4) 91,897 90,099 High Yield Bonds (5) 13,638 14,125 Emerging Market Fixed income (Non-US) (6) 4,463 4,100 Other Securities Hedge Funds (7) 15,913 15,880 Core Property Fund (8) 39,176 43,266 Income earned but not yet received 147 159 Total $ 326,458 $ 317,510 (1) US large cap equity fund invests primarily in a portfolio of common stocks included in the S&P 500 Index, as well as other equity securities and derivative instruments whose value is derived from the performance of the S&P 500. (2) US small/mid cap equity fund invests primarily in a portfolio of common stocks included in the Russell 2500 Index. (3) World equity ex-US fund invests primarily in common stocks and other equity securities whose issuers comprise a broad range of capitalizations and are located outside of the U.S. The fund invests primarily in developed countries but may also invest in emerging markets. (4) Short duration bond fund includes the Opportunistic Income fund and the Limited Duration Bond Fund. The Opportunistic Income fund invests primarily in a diversified portfolio of investment grade and non-investment grade fixed-income securities. There are no restrictions on the maturity of any individual securities or on the fund’s average portfolio maturity, although the average portfolio duration will typically vary between zero and two years. Under normal circumstances, the Limited Duration Bond Fund will invest at least 80% of its net assets in investment-grade, U.S. dollar-denominated debt instruments. The Fund is expected to maintain a portfolio duration of three years or less. (5) High yield bond fund seeks to maximize return by investing primarily in a diversified portfolio of higher yielding, lower rated fixed income securities. The fund will invest primarily in securities rated below investment grade, including corporate bonds, convertible and preferred securities and zero coupon obligations. (6) Emerging markets debt fund seeks to maximize return investing in fixed income securities of emerging markets issuers. The fund will invest primarily in U.S. dollar denominated debt securities of government, government-related and corporate issuers in emerging market countries, as well as entities organized to restructure the outstanding debt of such issuers. (7) Hedge fund seeks to provide returns that are different from (less correlated with) investments in more traditional asset classes. The fund will pursue its investment objective by investing substantially all of its assets in various hedge funds. (8) Core property fund is a fund of funds that invests in direct commercial property funds primarily in the U.S. The fund is meant to provide current income-oriented returns, diversification, and modest inflation protection to an overall investment portfolio. Total returns are expected to be somewhere between stocks and bonds, with moderate volatility and low correlation to public markets. Our plan assets are measured at fair value. FASB ASC 820 prioritizes the inputs used in valuation techniques including Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 (see Note 2 (d)—Significant Accounting Policies—Fair Value Measurements). The majority of our plan assets are valued using measurement inputs which include unadjusted prices in active markets and we have therefore classified these assets within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Our other securities include Hedge Funds and Core Property Funds, which are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient, and are not classified in the fair value hierarchy. Net periodic pension benefit costs included the following components (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Service cost $ 2,854 $ 780 $ — Interest cost 19,904 18,734 16,183 Expected return on plan assets (24,130 ) (25,926 ) (25,535 ) Amortization of unrecognized prior service credits (172 ) (43 ) — Amortization of unrecognized net loss 10,319 7,911 3,370 Curtailment (gain) loss — (564 ) — Special termination benefit recognized 48 — — Total benefit $ 8,823 $ 892 $ (5,982 ) We had accrued benefit costs at December 31, 2015 and 2016 of $109.0 million and $107.5 million, respectively, related to the pension benefits, of which $0.6 million and $0.6 million was recorded within other current liabilities, respectively, and $108.4 million and $106.9 million was recorded in other long-term liabilities, respectively. Net periodic other postretirement benefit costs included the following components (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Service cost $ 128 $ 70 $ — Interest cost 4,562 4,592 3,363 Amortization of unrecognized net loss — 596 (8 ) Total costs $ 4,690 $ 5,258 $ 3,355 We had accrued benefit costs at December 31, 2015 and 2016 related to the other postretirement benefits of $90.6 million and $82.9 million, respectively, of which $4.3 million and $4.1 million were recorded in other current liabilities, respectively, and $86.3 million and $78.8 million were recorded in other long-term liabilities, respectively. Depending upon our actual future health care claims, our actual costs may vary significantly from those projected above. As of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016, the assumed health care cost trend rate was 7.5%. This rate is assumed to decrease gradually to 4.5% by the year 2038 and to remain at that level of annual increase thereafter. Increasing the assumed health care cost trend rate by 1% each year would increase the other postretirement benefits obligation as of December 31, 2016 by $8.3 million. Decreasing this trend rate by 1% each year would reduce the other postretirement benefits obligation as of December 31, 2016 by $7.1 million. A 1% increase in the assumed health care cost trend rate would have increased the net periodic other postretirement benefits cost by $0.4 million and a 1% decrease would have decreased the cost by $0.3 million for 2016. The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are as follows (in thousands): Pension Other Post- 2017 $ 35,308 $ 4,111 2018 28,540 4,399 2019 28,076 4,673 2020 27,360 4,913 2021 27,319 5,133 2022 to 2026 133,822 27,483 Total $ 280,425 $ 50,712 (b) Other Retirement Plans In connection with the amendment of the defined benefit retirement plan amendment in the first quarter of 2015, the two defined contribution retirement plans we previously maintained for the benefit of our employees in the United States, were merged into a single plan, which is qualified under the provisions of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, for our employees in the United States. We recognized compensation expense for these plans of $9.2 million, $6.8 million and $10.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. We also maintain other defined contribution retirement plans in several non-U.S. jurisdictions, but such plans are not material to our financial position or results of operations.

Receivables

Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables	Note 8 Receivables Receivables were comprised of the following (in thousands): As of As of Service charges: Billed $ 258,034 $ 246,833 Unbilled 9,658 8,872 Other 2,261 2,075 Allowance for doubtful accounts (37,178 ) (54,744 ) Total $ 232,775 $ 203,036 Unbilled service charges represent amounts earned and accrued as receivables from customers for services rendered prior to the end of the reporting period. Unbilled service charges are expected to be billed and collected within twelve months of the respective balance sheet date.

Satellites and Other Property a

Satellites and Other Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Satellites and Other Property and Equipment	Note 9 Satellites and Other Property and Equipment (a) Satellites and Other Property and Equipment, net Satellites and other property and equipment, net were comprised of the following (in thousands): As of As of Satellites and launch vehicles $ 9,810,941 $ 10,363,771 Information systems and ground segment 641,741 727,929 Buildings and other 241,273 250,369 Total cost 10,693,955 11,342,069 Less: accumulated depreciation (4,705,638 ) (5,156,227 ) Total $ 5,988,317 $ 6,185,842 Satellites and other property and equipment, net as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 included construction-in-progress of $1.5 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively. These amounts relate primarily to satellites under construction and related launch services. Interest costs of $86.3 million and $98.3 million were capitalized during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively. Additionally, we recorded depreciation expense of $611.1 million, $627.5 million and $646.4 million during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. We have entered into launch contracts for the launch of both specified and unspecified future satellites. Each of these launch contracts provides that such contract may be terminated at our option, subject to payment of a termination fee that increases as the applicable launch date approaches. In addition, in the event of a failure of any launch, we may exercise our right to obtain a replacement launch within a specified period following our request for re-launch. (b) Recent Satellite Launches Intelsat 32e, a customized payload positioned on a third-party satellite, was successfully launched on February 14, 2017. Intelsat 32e is the third of seven in our planned Intelsat Epic NG On August 24, 2016, we successfully launched our Intelsat 36 and Intelsat 33e satellites into orbit. Intelsat 36 is co-located with our Intelsat 20 satellite at the 68.5ºE orbital location and entered into service in late September 2016. Intelsat 36 provides capacity for direct-to-home (“DTH”) television services via its Ku-band Intelsat 33e is the second of seven high-throughput satellites (“HTS”) within our Intelsat Epic NG On June 9, 2016, we successfully launched our Intelsat 31 satellite to the 95ºW orbital location, co-located with our Intelsat 30 satellite. This satellite will provide in-orbit resilience for DTH television services in Latin America via its Ku-band payload. Intelsat 31 also includes a C-band payload that enhances our Latin American network infrastructure. This satellite has completed in-orbit testing and entered into service in late July 2016. On January 27, 2016, we successfully launched our Intelsat 29e satellite into orbit. Intelsat 29e is the first HTS within our Intelsat Epic NG On August 20, 2015, we successfully launched our Intelsat 34 satellite into orbit. Intelsat 34 is a C- and Ku-band On October 16, 2014, we successfully launched our Intelsat 30 satellite into orbit. This satellite establishes long-term capacity at the 95°W orbital location and is co-located with our Galaxy 3C satellite. Intelsat 30 entered into service in the fourth quarter of 2014. It provides capacity for DTH television service in Latin America via Ku-band platforms, as well as additional capacity for media, government and network services customers via C-band (c) Satellite Health Our satellite fleet is diversified by manufacturer and satellite type, and as a result, our fleet is generally healthy. We have experienced some technical problems with our current fleet but have been able to minimize the impact of these problems on our customers, our operations and our business in recent years. Many of these problems have been component failures and anomalies that have had little long-term impact to date on the overall transponder availability in our satellite fleet. All of our satellites have been designed to accommodate an anticipated rate of equipment failures with adequate redundancy to meet or exceed their orbital design lives, and to date, this redundancy design scheme has proven effective. After each anomaly we have generally restored services for our customers on the affected satellite, provided alternative capacity on other satellites in our fleet, or provided capacity that we purchased from other satellite operators. Significant Anomalies On January 14, 2005, our Intelsat 804 satellite experienced a sudden and unexpected electrical power system anomaly that resulted in the total loss of the satellite. Intelsat 804 was a Lockheed Martin 7000 series (the “LM 7000 series”) satellite, and as of December 31, 2016 we operated one other satellite in the LM 7000 series, Intelsat 805. Based on the report of the Failure Review Board that we established with Lockheed Martin Corporation, we believe that the Intelsat 804 failure was not likely to have been caused by an Intelsat 804 specific workmanship or hardware element, but was most likely caused by a high current event in the battery circuitry triggered by an electrostatic discharge that propagated to cause the sudden failure of the high voltage power system. We therefore believe that although this risk exists for our other LM 7000 series satellite, the risk of any individual satellite having a similar anomaly is low. On April 5, 2010, our Galaxy 15 satellite experienced an anomaly resulting in our inability to command the satellite. Galaxy 15 is a Star-2 satellite manufactured by Orbital Sciences Corporation. On December 23, 2010, we recovered command of the spacecraft and we have since uploaded flight software code to protect against future anomalies of this type. As of December 31, 2016, Galaxy 15 continues to provide normal service. On April 22, 2011, our Intelsat 28 satellite, formerly known as the Intelsat New Dawn satellite, was launched into orbit. Subsequent to the launch, the satellite experienced an anomaly during the deployment of its west antenna reflector, which controls communications in the C-band frequency. The anomaly had not been experienced previously on other STAR satellites manufactured by Orbital Sciences Corporation, including those in our fleet. The New Dawn joint venture filed a partial loss claim with its insurers relating to the C-band antenna reflector anomaly and all of the insurance proceeds from the partial loss claim were received in 2011. The Ku-band During launch operations of Intelsat 19 on June 1, 2012, the satellite experienced damage to its south solar array. Although both solar arrays are deployed, the power available to the satellite is less than is required to operate 100% of the payload capacity. An Independent Oversight Board (“IOB”) was formed by Space Systems/Loral, LLC (“SSL”) and Sea Launch to investigate the solar array deployment anomaly. The IOB concluded that the anomaly occurred before the spacecraft separated from the launch vehicle, during the ascent phase of the launch, and originated in one of the satellite’s two solar array wings due to a rare combination of factors in the panel fabrication and was unrelated to the launch vehicle. While the satellite is operational, the anomaly resulted in structural and electrical damage to one solar array wing, which reduced the amount of power available for payload operation. Additionally, we filed a partial loss claim with our insurers relating to the solar array anomaly. We received $84.8 million of insurance proceeds related to the claim in 2013. As planned, Intelsat 19 replaced Intelsat 8 at 166°E, in August 2012. During orbit raising of Intelsat 33e in September 2016, the satellite experienced a malfunction of the main satellite thruster. Orbit raising was subsequently completed using a different set of satellite thrusters. The anomaly resulted in a delay of approximately three months in reaching the geostationary orbit, as well as a reduction in the projected lifetime of the satellite. Intelsat has filed a notice of occurrence with insurers relating to the reduction of life. Other Anomalies We have also identified four other types of common anomalies among the satellite models in our fleet, which have had an operational impact in the past and could, if they materialize, have an impact in the future. These are: • failure of the on-board satellite control processor (“SCP”) in Boeing 601 (“BSS 601”) satellites; • failure of the on-board Xenon-Ion Propulsion System (“XIPS”) used to maintain the in-orbit position of Boeing 601 High Power Series (“BSS 601 HP”) satellites; • accelerated solar array degradation in early Boeing 702 High Power Series (“BSS 702 HP”) satellites; and • electrical distribution anomalies on older SSL FS 1300 satellites. SCP Failures. As of December 31, 2016, we operated one BSS 601 satellite, Intelsat 26. This satellite was identified as having heightened susceptibility to the SCP problem. Intelsat 26 has been in continuous operation since 1997. Both primary and backup SCPs on this satellite are monitored regularly and remain fully functional. Accordingly, we believe it is unlikely that additional SCP failures will occur; however, should they occur, we do not anticipate an interruption in business or early replacement of this satellite as a result. BSS 601 HP XIPS. As of December 31, 2016, we operated four BSS 601 HP satellites, Intelsat 5, Intelsat 9, and Intelsat 10, which are now in inclined orbit, and Galaxy 13/Horizons-1. Galaxy 13/Horizons-1 has one XIPS system available as its primary propulsion system. Intelsat 5, Intelsat 9 and Intelsat 10 have experienced the failure of both XIPS and are operating on their backup chemical propulsion systems. Intelsat 5 was redeployed in 2012 following its replacement by Intelsat 8, which was subsequently replaced by Intelsat 19. Also in 2012, Intelsat 9 and Intelsat 10 were redeployed following their replacements by Intelsat 21 and Intelsat 20, respectively. No assurance can be given that we will not have further XIPS failures that result in shortened satellite lives. We have decommissioned three satellites that had experienced failure of both XIPS. Intelsat 6B was replaced by Intelsat 11 during the first quarter of 2008, Galaxy 10R was replaced by Galaxy 18 during the second quarter of 2008, and Galaxy 4R was decommissioned in March 2009. BSS 702 HP Solar Arrays. As of December 31, 2016, we operated three BSS 702 HP satellites, two of which are affected by accelerated solar array degradation, Galaxy 11 and Intelsat 1R. Service to customers has not been affected, and we expect that both of these satellites will continue to serve customers until we replace or supplement them with new satellites. Along with the manufacturer, we continually monitor the problem to determine its cause and its expected effect. Due to this continued degradation, Galaxy 11’s estimated end of service life is in the first quarter of 2019 and Intelsat 1R’s estimated end of service life is in the second quarter of 2017. Galaxy 11 was redeployed following its replacement by Intelsat 34 in 2015. Intelsat 1R was redeployed following its replacement by Intelsat 14. The third BSS 702 HP satellite that we operated as of December 31, 2016, Galaxy 3C, was launched after the solar array anomaly was identified, and it has a substantially different solar array design intended to eliminate the problem. This satellite has been in service since September 2002 and has not experienced similar degradation problems.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments	Note 10 Investments We have an ownership interest in two entities that meet the criteria of a VIE, Horizons Satellite Holdings, LLC (“Horizons Holdings”) and Horizons-3 Satellite LLC (“Horizons 3”). Horizons Holdings is discussed in further detail below, including our analyses of the primary beneficiary determination as required under FASB ASC Topic 810, Consolidation (a) Horizons Holdings Our first joint venture with JSAT International, Inc. (“JSAT”) is named Horizons Satellite Holdings, LLC, and consists of two investments: Horizons-1 Satellite LLC (“Horizons-1”) and Horizons-2 Satellite LLC (“Horizons-2”). Horizons Holdings borrowed from JSAT a portion of the funds necessary to finance the construction of the Horizons-2 satellite pursuant to a loan agreement. The borrowing was subsequently repaid. We provide certain services to the joint venture and utilize capacity from the joint venture. We have determined that this joint venture meets the criteria of a VIE under FASB ASC 810, and we have concluded that we are the primary beneficiary because decisions relating to any future relocation of the Horizons-2 We have a revenue sharing agreement with JSAT related to services sold on the Horizons-1 and Horizons-2 satellites. We are responsible for billing and collection for such services, and we remit 50% of the revenue, less applicable fees and commissions, to JSAT. Amounts payable to JSAT related to the revenue sharing agreement, net of applicable fees and commissions, from the Horizons-1 and Horizons-2 satellites were $6.6 million and $6.2 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively. (b) Horizons-3 Satellite LLC On November 4, 2015, we entered into a new joint venture agreement with JSAT. The joint venture, named Horizons 3, was formed for the purpose of developing, launching, managing, operating and owning a high performance satellite to be located at the 169ºE orbital location. Horizons 3, which is 50% owned by each of Intelsat and JSAT, was set up with a joint share of management authority and equal rights to profits and revenues from the joint venture. Similar to Horizons Holdings, we have a revenue sharing agreement with JSAT related to services sold on the Horizons 3 satellite. In addition, we are responsible for billing and collection for such services, and we remit 50% of the revenue, less applicable fees and commissions, to JSAT. We have determined that this joint venture meets the criteria of a VIE under FASB ASC 810, and we have concluded that we are not the primary beneficiary, and therefore, do not consolidate Horizons 3. The assessment considered both quantitative and qualitative factors, including an analysis of voting power and other means of control of the joint venture as well as each owner’s exposure to risk of loss or gain. Because we and JSAT equally share control over the operations of the joint venture and also equally share exposure to risk of losses or gains, we concluded that we are not the primary beneficiary of Horizons 3. Our investment, included within other assets in our consolidated balance sheets, is accounted for using the equity method of accounting and the investment balance was $19.1 million and $31.1 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively. In connection with our investment in Horizons 3, we entered into a capital contribution and subscription agreement, which requires us to fund our 50% share of the amounts due in order to maintain our respective 50% interest in the joint venture. Pursuant to this agreement, we made contributions of $19.1 million and $10.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively. In addition, our indirect subsidiary that holds our investment in Horizons 3 has entered into a security and pledge agreement with Horizons 3, pursuant to which it has granted a security interest in its membership interests in Horizons 3. Further, our indirect subsidiary has granted a security interest to Horizons 3 in its customer capacity contracts and its ownership interest in its wholly-owned subsidiary that will hold the U.S. Federal Communications Commission license required for the joint venture’s operations. (c) Cost Method Investments Our cost method investments recorded in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets had a total carrying value of $25.0 million and $29.0 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively. The balance as of December 31, 2016 consists of two minority investments. (d) 2017 Investments In 2017, we made total payments of $16.0 million for two additional investments. We are in the process of evaluating how we will account for these investments. (e) Equity Attributable to Intelsat S.A. and Noncontrolling Interests The following tables present changes in equity attributable to the Company and equity attributable to our noncontrolling interests, which is included in the equity section of our consolidated balance sheet (in thousands): Intelsat S.A. Noncontrolling Total Shareholders’ Balance at January 1, 2015 $ (776,268 ) $ 33,701 $ (742,567 ) Net income (loss) (3,923,387 ) 3,934 (3,919,453 ) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests — (8,423 ) (8,423 ) Share-based compensation 25,921 — 25,921 Declaration of preferred stock dividend (9,919 ) — (9,919 ) Postretirement/pension liability adjustment 34,449 — 34,449 Other comprehensive income (361 ) — (361 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (4,649,565 ) $ 29,212 $ (4,620,353 ) Intelsat S.A. Noncontrolling Total Shareholders’ Balance at January 1, 2016 $ (4,649,565 ) $ 29,212 $ (4,620,353 ) Net income 990,197 3,915 994,112 Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests — (8,980 ) (8,980 ) Share-based compensation 23,089 — 23,089 Postretirement/pension liability adjustment 2,041 — 2,041 Other comprehensive income 93 — 93 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (3,634,145 ) $ 24,147 $ (3,609,998 )

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Note 11 Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The carrying amounts of goodwill and acquired intangible assets not subject to amortization consist of the following (in thousands): As of As of Goodwill (1) $ 2,620,627 $ 2,620,627 Orbital locations 2,387,700 2,387,700 Trade name 65,200 65,200 (1) Net of accumulated impairment losses of $4,160,200. We account for goodwill and other non-amortizable intangible assets in accordance with FASB ASC 350, and have deemed these assets to have indefinite lives. Therefore, these assets are not amortized but are instead tested on an annual basis for impairment during the fourth quarter, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be fully recoverable. (a) Goodwill We perform our annual goodwill impairment assessment using a qualitative approach to identify and consider the significance of relevant key factors, events, and circumstances that affect the fair value of our reporting unit. We are required to identify reporting units at a level below the company’s identified operating segments for impairment analysis. We have identified only one reporting unit for the goodwill impairment test. Assumptions and Approach Used During the fourth quarter of 2015, our share price experienced a sustained reduction in trading values. Secondly, the trading values of our debt securities also showed sustained deterioration. This was also reflective of broader difficulties in the credit markets for high yield issuers. Finally, our annual business planning process which we undertook in the fourth quarter showed a decline in our forecasted results as compared to previous levels. Based on our examination of these and other qualitative factors at December 31, 2015, we concluded that further testing of goodwill was required. See below for details of testing performed. Based on our examination of the qualitative factors at December 31, 2016, we concluded that there was not a likelihood of more than 50% that the fair value of our reporting unit was less than its carrying value; therefore, no further testing of goodwill was required. The second step of the process applied at December 31 2015, required us to calculate a hypothetical purchase allocation to compare the current implied value of the goodwill to the current carrying value of the goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination, which is the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the aggregate fair values of the individual assets, liabilities and identifiable intangibles. If the implied fair value of goodwill as described above exceeds recorded goodwill, there is no impairment. If the recorded goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment charge would be recorded for the excess. Furthermore, an impairment loss cannot exceed the amount of goodwill assigned to a reporting unit. After recognizing the impairment loss, the corresponding loss establishes a new basis in the goodwill. Subsequent reversals of goodwill impairment losses are not permitted under applicable accounting standards. At December 31, 2015, we determined the estimated fair value of our reporting unit using discounted cash flow analysis, along with independent source data related to the comparative market multiples and, when available, recent transactions, each of which is considered a Level 3 input within the fair value hierarchy under FASB ASC 820. The discounted cash flows were derived from a five-year projection of cash flows plus a residual value, with the resulting projected cash flows discounted at an appropriate weighted average cost of capital. In estimating the undiscounted cash flows, we primarily used our internally prepared budgets and forecast information. The key assumptions included in our model were projected growth rates, cost of capital, effective tax rates, and industry and economic trends. A change in the estimated future cash flows or other assumptions could change our estimated fair values and result in future impairments. The result of our analysis resulted in a non-cash impairment charge of $4.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2015, which is included within impairment of goodwill and other intangibles in the consolidated statement of operations. The analysis was performed using information available at that time and was based on estimates of fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities. We believe that the estimates and assumptions underlying the valuation methodologies are reasonable. The assessment of qualitative factors requires significant judgment. Alternative interpretations of the qualitative factors could have resulted in a different conclusion as to whether it was not more likely than not that the fair value of our reporting unit was less than its carrying value. A different conclusion would require a more detailed quantitative analysis to be performed, which could, in future years, result in an additional impairment charge for goodwill. (b) Orbital Locations, Trade Name and other Intangible Assets Orbital Locations Our rights to operate at orbital locations can be used and sold individually; however, since satellites and customers can be and are moved from one orbital location to another, our rights are used in conjunction with each other as a network that can be adapted to meet the changing needs of our customers and market demands. Due to the interchangeable nature of orbital locations, the aggregate value of all of the orbital locations is used to measure the extent of impairment, if any. At December 31, 2015 we determined the estimated fair value of our rights to operate at orbital locations by using the build-up method to determine cash flows for the income approach, with the resulting projected cash flows discounted at an appropriate weighted average cost of capital. In instances where the build-up method did not generate positive value for the rights to operate at an orbital location, but the rights were expected to generate revenue, we assigned a value based upon independent source data for recent transactions relating to similar orbital locations, each of which is considered Level 3 input within the fair value hierarchy under FASB ASC 820. The key assumptions used in estimating the fair values for our rights to operate at our orbital locations included: (i) market penetration leading to revenue growth, (ii) profit margin, (iii) duration and profile of the build-up period, (iv) estimated start-up costs and losses incurred during the build-up period and (v) weighted average cost of capital. In instances where the build-up method did not generate positive value for the rights to operate at an orbital location, but the rights were expected to generate revenue, we assigned a value based upon independent source data for transactions relating to similar orbital locations, each of which is considered a Level 3 input within the fair value hierarchy under FASB ASC 820. At December 31, 2015, we completed our analysis of our orbital locations in connection with the analysis of goodwill described above, and concluded that there was no impairment. At December 31, 2016, we updated our assessment based on an examination of qualitative factors and concluded that there was no impairment related to our orbital slots. Trade Name The key assumptions used in our model to estimate the fair value of the Intelsat trade name include forecasted revenues, the tax rate and the discount rate. A change in the estimated tax rates or discount rate could result in future impairments. At December 31, 2015, we completed our analysis of the Intelsat trade name in connection with the analysis of goodwill, and it resulted in an impairment of our trade name intangible of $5.2 million, which is included within goodwill and other intangibles in the consolidated statement of operations. At December 31, 2016, we updated our assessment based on an examination of qualitative factors and concluded that there was no impairment related to the Intelsat trade name. The carrying amount and accumulated amortization of acquired intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following (in thousands): As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2016 Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Carrying Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Carrying Backlog and other $ 743,760 $ (647,534 ) $ 96,226 $ 743,760 $ (669,045 ) $ 74,715 Customer relationships 534,030 (189,926 ) 344,104 534,030 (216,907 ) 317,123 Total $ 1,277,790 $ (837,460 ) $ 440,330 $ 1,277,790 $ (885,952 ) $ 391,838 Intangible assets are amortized based on the expected pattern of consumption. We recorded amortization expense of $68.2 million, $60.2 million and $48.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. Scheduled amortization charges for the intangible assets over the next five years are as follows (in thousands): Year Amount 2017 $ 42,254 2018 38,481 2019 34,351 2020 31,103 2021 28,635 Our policy is to expense all costs incurred to renew or extend the terms of our intangible assets. The renewal expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016 were immaterial to our consolidated results of operations.

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Note 12 Long-Term Debt The carrying values and fair values of our notes payable and long-term debt were as follows (in thousands): As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2016 Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Intelsat Luxembourg: 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 $ 475,000 $ 355,063 $ 500,000 $ 410,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 6.75% Senior Notes (2,066 ) — (5,746 ) — 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 2,000,000 930,000 2,000,000 640,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.75% Senior Notes (19,602 ) — (16,588 ) — 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 1,000,000 450,000 1,000,000 295,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 8.125% Senior Notes (10,870 ) — (9,764 ) — Total Intelsat Luxembourg obligations 3,442,462 1,735,063 3,467,902 1,345,000 Intelsat Connect Finance: 12.5% Senior Notes due April 2022 $ — $ — $ 731,884 $ 475,725 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 12.5% Senior Notes — — (297,257 ) — Total Intelsat Connect Finance obligations — — 434,627 475,725 Intelsat Jackson: 9.5% Senior Secured Notes due September 2022 $ — $ — $ 490,000 $ 543,900 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 9.5% Senior Secured Notes — — (20,243 ) — 8.00% Senior Secured Notes due February 2024 — — 1,349,678 1,383,420 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium on 8.0% Senior Secured Notes — — (6,005 ) — 7.25% Senior Notes due October 2020 2,200,000 1,919,500 2,200,000 1,716,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium on 7.25% Senior Notes (8,248 ) — (6,756 ) — 7.25% Senior Notes due April 2019 1,500,000 1,368,750 1,500,000 1,260,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.25% Senior Notes (8,203 ) — (5,886 ) — 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2021 1,150,000 1,000,500 1,150,000 879,750 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.5% Senior Notes (8,137 ) — (6,828 ) — 6.625% Senior Notes due December 2022 1,275,000 803,250 — — Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium on 6.625% Senior Notes 20,428 — — — 5.5% Senior Notes due August 2023 2,000,000 1,560,000 2,000,000 1,340,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 5.5% Senior Notes (16,719 ) — (14,900 ) — Senior Secured Credit Facilities due June 2019 3,095,000 2,944,274 3,095,000 3,013,756 Jackson Revolver — — — — Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on Senior Secured Credit Facilities and Jackson Revolver (30,204 ) — (21,682 ) — Total Intelsat Jackson obligations 11,168,917 9,596,274 11,702,378 10,136,826 Eliminations: 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 owned by Intelsat Connect Finance $ — $ — $ (402,570 ) $ (330,107 ) Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 6.75% Senior Notes — — 5,490 — 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 owned by Intelsat Connect Finance — — (979,168 ) (313,334 ) Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.75% Senior Notes — — 8,121 — 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 owned by Intelsat Connect Finance — — (111,663 ) (32,941 ) Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 8.125% Senior Notes — — 1,090 — Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 12.5% Senior Notes — — 71,877 — Total eliminations: — — (1,406,823 ) (676,382 ) Total Intelsat S.A. long-term debt $ 14,611,379 $ 11,331,337 $ 14,198,084 $ 11,281,169 Less: Current portion of long-term debt — — Total long-term debt, excluding current portion $ 14,611,379 $ 14,198,084 The fair value for publicly traded instruments is determined using quoted market prices, and for non-publicly traded instruments, fair value is based upon composite pricing from a variety of sources, including market leading data providers, market makers and leading brokerage firms. Substantially all of the inputs used to determine the fair value of our debt are classified as Level 1 inputs within the fair value hierarchy from FASB ASC 820, except our senior secured credit facilities, the inputs for which are classified as Level 2. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest—Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30), Required principal repayments of long-term debt over the next five years and thereafter as of December 31, 2016 are as follows (in thousands): Year Amount 2017 $ — 2018 97,430 2019 4,595,000 2020 2,200,000 2021 2,170,832 2022 and thereafter 5,459,899 Total principal repayments 14,523,161 Unamortized discounts, premium and prepaid issuance costs (325,077 ) Total Intelsat S.A. long-term debt $ 14,198,084 January 2017 Intelsat Luxembourg Exchange Offer In January 2017, Intelsat Luxembourg completed a debt exchange, (the “Second 2018 Luxembourg Exchange”) whereby it exchanged $403.3 million aggregate principal amount of its 6 3 4 1 2 2016 Debt Transactions March 2016 Intelsat Jackson Senior Secured Notes Offering On March 29, 2016, Intelsat Jackson completed an offering of $1.25 billion aggregate principal amount of 8% Senior Secured Notes due 2024 (the “2024 Secured Jackson Notes”). The 2024 Secured Jackson Notes bear interest at 8% annually and mature in February 2024. These notes are guaranteed by ICF and certain of Intelsat Jackson’s subsidiaries. The net proceeds from this offering have been and, are expected to be, used for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment and repurchase of indebtedness, capital expenditures and working capital and to pay fees and expenses related to the offering. A portion of the net proceeds was used to prepay in full all amounts outstanding under the Intercompany Loan described below under—2015 Debt Transactions—Significant Intercompany Transaction. May 2016 Intelsat Jackson Notes Repurchases In May 2016, we repurchased $459.7 million in aggregate principal amount of Intelsat Jackson’s outstanding 6 5 8 Subsidiary Guarantee of Intelsat Jackson’s 6 5 8 In May 2016, Intelsat Jackson and each of the subsidiaries of Intelsat Jackson that guarantees loans under Intelsat Jackson’s Secured Credit Agreement executed a supplemental indenture to the indenture governing the 2022 Jackson Notes, following the execution of which such subsidiaries guarantee the 2022 Jackson Notes. 2016 Intelsat Jackson Tender Offers and June 2016 Senior Secured Notes Issuance In May 2016, Intelsat Jackson commenced tender offers to purchase several tranches of outstanding debt (the “Tender Offers”). In June 2016, Intelsat Jackson completed an issuance of $490 million aggregate principal amount of 9 1 2 September 2016 Intelsat Jackson Debt Exchange and Consent Solicitation In September 2016, Intelsat Jackson completed a debt exchange receiving $141.4 million aggregate principal amount of 2022 Jackson Notes in exchange for $99.7 million aggregate principal amount of newly issued 2024 Secured Jackson Notes issued and $17.0 million in cash. In connection with this exchange, Intelsat Jackson also received a consent from holders of $141.5 million principal amount of 2022 Jackson Notes in exchange for $9.2 million in cash to amend the indenture governing the 2022 Jackson Notes, among other things to: (i) eliminate substantially all of the restrictive covenants and certain events of default pertaining to the 2022 Jackson Notes, and (ii) waive any defaults or events of default potentially existing under the indenture governing the 2022 Jackson Notes as of September 12, 2016. We have determined the transaction will be accounted for as a modification and not as an extinguishment of debt under ASU 470, Debt December 2016 Intelsat Connect Finance Exchange Offers First 2018 Luxembourg Exchange 1 2 Debt 2021 Luxembourg Exchange 3 4 Debt 2023 Luxembourg Exchange 1 8 Debt 2015 Debt Transactions 2015 Intelsat Luxembourg Notes Repurchases During the fourth quarter of 2015, we repurchased $25.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 2018 Luxembourg Notes. In connection with these repurchases, we recognized a gain on early extinguishment of debt of $7.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2015, consisting of the difference between the carrying value of the debt purchased and the total cash amount paid, and a write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs. 2015 Significant Intercompany Transaction During the third quarter of 2015, Intelsat Jackson declared and paid a dividend of $360 million in cash to its direct parent at the time, Intelsat Luxembourg, also one of our subsidiaries. Subsequent to the payment of the dividend, a subsidiary of Intelsat Luxembourg loaned an aggregate principal amount of $360 million to Intelsat Jackson (the “Intercompany Loan”) pursuant to a promissory note. During the first quarter of 2016, Intelsat Jackson prepaid in full all amounts outstanding under the Intercompany Loan, using a portion of the proceeds of the issuance of the 2024 Secured Jackson Notes described above. Description of Indebtedness (a) Intelsat Luxembourg 6 3 4 Intelsat Luxembourg had $500.0 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the 2018 Luxembourg Notes. Following completion of the Second 2018 Luxembourg Exchange described above, $96.7 million remained outstanding in January 2017. The 2018 Luxembourg Notes bear interest at 6 3 4 Interest is payable on the 2018 Luxembourg Notes semi-annually on June 1 and December 1. Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. The 2018 Luxembourg Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Intelsat Luxembourg and rank equally with Intelsat Luxembourg’s other senior unsecured indebtedness. 7 3 4 Intelsat Luxembourg had $2.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Luxembourg Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. $979.2 million principal amount were held by ICF. The 2021 Luxembourg Notes bear interest at 7 3 4 Interest is payable on the 2021 Luxembourg Notes semi-annually on June 1 and December 1. Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem the 2021 Luxembourg Notes, in whole or in part, prior to June 1, 2017 at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus the applicable premium described in the notes. Thereafter, Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the 2021 Luxembourg Notes on or prior to June 1, 2016, with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Intelsat Luxembourg or its direct or indirect parent, under the conditions set forth in the notes. The 2021 Luxembourg Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Intelsat Luxembourg and rank equally with Intelsat Luxembourg’s other senior unsecured indebtedness. 8 1 8 Intelsat Luxembourg had $1.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Luxembourg Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. $111.7 million principal amount were held by ICF. The 2023 Luxembourg Notes bear interest at 8 1 8 Interest is payable on the 2023 Luxembourg Notes semi-annually on June 1 and December 1. Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem the 2023 Luxembourg Notes, in whole or in part, prior to June 1, 2018 at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus the applicable premium described in the notes. Thereafter, Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. Intelsat Luxembourg may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Luxembourg Notes on or prior to June 1, 2016, with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Intelsat Luxembourg or its direct or indirect parent, under the conditions set forth in the notes. The 2023 Luxembourg Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Intelsat Luxembourg and rank equally with Intelsat Luxembourg’s other senior unsecured indebtedness. (b) Intelsat Connect Finance 12 1 2 ICF had $731.9 million in aggregate principal amount of 2022 ICF Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. The 2022 ICF Notes bear interest at 12 1 2 Interest is payable on the 2022 ICF Notes semi-annually on June 15 and December 15. ICF may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. (c) Intelsat Jackson 9 1 2 Intelsat Jackson had $490 million in aggregate principal amount of 2022 Jackson Secured Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. The 2022 Jackson Secured Notes bear interest at 9 1 2 Interest is payable on the 2022 Jackson Secured Notes semi-annually on March 30 and September 30. Intelsat Jackson may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. The 2022 Jackson Secured Notes are senior secured obligations of Intelsat Jackson. 8 % Senior Secured Notes due 2024 Intelsat Jackson had $1.3 billion in aggregate principal amount of 2024 Jackson Secured Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. The 2024 Jackson Secured Notes bear interest at 8% annually and mature in February 2024. These notes are guaranteed by ICF and certain of Intelsat Jackson’s subsidiaries. Interest is payable on the 2024 Jackson Secured Notes semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. Intelsat Jackson may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. The 2024 Jackson Secured Notes are senior secured obligations of Intelsat Jackson. 7 1 4 Intelsat Jackson had $2.2 billion in aggregate principal amount of 2020 Jackson Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. The 2020 Jackson Notes bear interest at 7 1 4 Interest is payable on the 2020 Jackson Notes semi-annually on April 15 and October 15. Intelsat Jackson may redeem some or all of the notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. The 2020 Jackson Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Intelsat Jackson and rank equally with Intelsat Jackson’s other senior unsecured indebtedness. 7 1 4 1 2 Intelsat Jackson had $1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of its 7 1 4 1 2 Interest is payable on the New Jackson Notes semi-annually on April 1 and October 1. The New Jackson Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Intelsat Jackson and rank equally with Intelsat Jackson’s other senior unsecured indebtedness. 5 1 2 Intelsat Jackson had $2.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Jackson Notes outstanding at December 31, 2016. The 2023 Jackson Notes bear interest at 5 1 2 Interest is payable on the 2023 Jackson Notes semi-annually on February 1 and August 1. Intelsat Jackson may redeem some or all of the 2023 Jackson Notes at any time prior to August 1, 2018 at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus the applicable premium described in the notes. Thereafter, Intelsat Jackson may redeem some or all of the 2023 Intelsat Jackson Notes at the applicable redemption prices set forth in the notes. Intelsat Jackson may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Jackson Notes prior to August 1, 2016, with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Intelsat Jackson or its direct or indirect parent, under the conditions set forth in the notes. The 2023 Jackson Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Intelsat Jackson and rank equally with Intelsat Jackson’s other senior unsecured indebtedness. Intelsat Jackson Senior Secured Credit Agreement On January 12, 2011, Intelsat Jackson entered into a secured credit agreement (the “Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement”), which included a $3.25 billion term loan facility and a $500.0 million revolving credit facility, and borrowed the full $3.25 billion under the term loan facility. The term loan facility required regularly scheduled quarterly payments of principal equal to 0.25% of the original principal amount of the term loan beginning six months after January 12, 2011, with the remaining unpaid amount due and payable at maturity. Up to $350.0 million of the revolving credit facility is available for issuance of letters of credit. Additionally, up to $70.0 million of the revolving credit facility is available for swingline loans. Both the face amount of any outstanding letters of credit and any swingline loans reduce availability under the revolving credit facility on a dollar for dollar basis. Intelsat Jackson is required to pay a commitment fee for the unused commitments under the revolving credit facility, if any, at a rate per annum of 0.375%. On October 3, 2012, Intelsat Jackson entered into an Amendment and Joinder Agreement (the “Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment”), which amended the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement. As a result of the Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment, interest rates for borrowings under the term loan facility and the revolving credit facility were reduced. In April 2013, our corporate family rating was upgraded by Moody’s, and as a result, the interest rate for the borrowing under the term loan facility and revolving credit facility were further reduced to LIBOR plus 3.00% or the Above Bank Rate (“ABR”) plus 2.00%. On November 27, 2013, Intelsat Jackson entered into a Second Amendment and Joinder Agreement (the “Second Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment”), which further amended the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement. The Second Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment reduced interest rates for borrowings under the term loan facility and extended the maturity of the term loan facility. In addition, it reduced the interest rates applicable to $450 million of the $500 million total revolving credit facility and extended the maturity of such portion. As a result of the Second Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment, interest rates for borrowings under the term loan facility and the new tranche of the revolving credit facility are (i) LIBOR plus 2.75%, or (ii) the ABR plus 1.75%. The LIBOR and the ABR, plus applicable margins, related to the term loan facility and the new tranche of the revolving credit facility are determined as specified in the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement, as amended by the Second Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment, and the LIBOR will not be less than 1.00% per annum. The maturity date of the term loan facility was extended from April 2, 2018 to June 30, 2019 and the maturity of the new $450 million tranche of the revolving credit facility was extended from January 12, 2016 to July 12, 2017. The interest rates and maturity date applicable to the $50 million tranche of the revolving credit facility that was not amended did not change. The Second Jackson Credit Agreement Amendment further removed the requirement for regularly scheduled quarterly principal payments under the term loan facility. On December 22, 2016, Intelsat Jackson, Intelsat Luxembourg and ICF entered into a Joinder Agreement and a Release Agreement, which further amended the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement. These agreements provided for the entry of ICF into the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement, as amended, in place of Intelsat Luxembourg and the release of Intelsat Luxembourg from certain of its previous obligations thereunder. As of December 31, 2016, Intelsat Jackson had $432.8 million of undrawn capacity under its revolving credit facility. However, use of such capacity was subject to the covenants contained in its other debt agreements. As a result of the completion of senior secured note issuances in March, June and September, 2016, Intelsat Jackson currently has limited access to the undrawn capacity under the revolving credit facility, and has been relying for liquidity purposes, and intends to rely in the future, on a portion of the net proceeds of the March 2016 notes issuance. In January 2017 Intelsat Jackson permanently reduced the revolving credit commitments as defined in the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement (defined above) from $450 million to $35 million. Intelsat Jackson’s obligations under the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement are guaranteed by ICF, and certain of Intelsat Jackson’s subsidiaries. Intelsat Jackson’s obligations under the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement are secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the assets of Intelsat Jackson and the guarantors, to the extent legally permissible and subject to certain agreed exceptions, and by a pledge of the equity interests of the subsidiary guarantors and the direct subsidiaries of each guarantor, subject to certain exceptions, including exceptions for equity interests in certain non-U.S. subsidiaries, existing contractual prohibitions and prohibitions under other legal requirements. The Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement includes two financial covenants. Intelsat Jackson must maintain a consolidated secured debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio equal to or less than 3.50 to 1.00 at the end of each fiscal quarter, as well as a consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense ratio equal to or greater than 1.75 to 1.00 at the end of each fiscal quarter, in each case as such financial measures are defined in the Intelsat Jackson Secured Credit Agreement. Intelsat Jackson was in compliance with these financial maintenance covenant ratios with a consolidated secured debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio of 2.65 to 1.00 and a consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense ratio of 2.20 to 1.00 as of December 31, 2016.

Derivative Instruments and Hedg

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Note 13 Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Interest Rate Swaps We are subject to interest rate risk primarily associated with our variable-rate borrowings. Interest rate risk is the risk that changes in interest rates could adversely affect earnings and cash flows. Specific interest rate risk includes: the risk of increasing interest rates on short-term debt; the risk of increasing interest rates for planned new fixed long-term financings; and the risk of increasing interest rates for planned refinancing using long-term fixed-rate debt. At December 31, 2015, we held interest rate swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $1.6 billion, which matured in January 2016. These swaps were entered into to economically hedge the variability in cash flow on a portion of the floating-rate loans under our senior secured credit facilities, but were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Put Option Embedded Derivative Instrument The 2022 ICF Notes contain a contingent put option clause within the host contract, which affords the holders of the notes the option to require us to repurchase such notes at 101% of their principal amount in the event of a change of control, as defined in the indenture governing the notes. We concluded that the contingent put option required bifurcation in accordance with ASC 815, and have recorded the embedded derivative at fair value on the consolidated balance sheet in “Other liabilities.” We estimated the fair value of the put option derivative using a valuation technique which reflects the estimated date and probability of a change of control, the fair value of the 2022 ICF Notes, and a credit valuation adjustment reflecting our credit spreads. There was no change in fair value between the issuance date and December 31, 2016. The fair value of the embedded derivative was $1.5 million at the issuance date of the 2022 ICF Notes and at December 31, 2016. The following table sets forth the fair value of our derivatives by category (in thousands): Derivatives not designated as hedging Balance Sheets Location December 31, December 31, Undesignated interest rate swaps Other current liabilities $ 2,013 $ — Put option embedded derivative Other current liabilities — 1,496 Total derivatives $ 2,013 $ 1,496 The following table sets forth the effect of the derivative instruments, included in interest expense, net in our consolidated statements of operations (in thousands): Derivatives not designated as hedging Presentation in Statements of Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Undesignated interest rate swaps Included in interest expense, net $ 5,649 $ 3,483 $ — Put option embedded derivative Included in interest expense, net — — — Total loss on derivative financial instruments $ 5,649 $ 3,483 $ —

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 14 Income Taxes The following table summarizes our total income (loss) before income taxes (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Domestic income (loss) before income taxes $ 199,682 $ (3,966,322 ) $ 938,156 Foreign income before income taxes 59,795 48,382 71,942 Total income (loss) before income taxes $ 259,477 $ (3,917,940 ) $ 1,010,098 The primary reason for the variance in domestic income before income tax was that our Luxembourg entities recorded a net gain on the extinguishment of debt in 2016. In 2015, they recorded impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets. No comparable amounts were recorded in 2014. The provision for (benefit from) income taxes consisted of the following (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Current income tax provision Domestic $ 2,306 $ — $ (35 ) Foreign 33,311 10,817 25,721 Total 35,617 10,817 25,686 Deferred income tax benefit: Domestic $ — $ — $ (80 ) Foreign (12,646 ) (9,304 ) (9,620 ) Total (12,646 ) (9,304 ) (9,700 ) Total income tax provision (benefit): $ 22,971 $ 1,513 $ 15,986 The income tax provision (benefit) was different from the amount computed using the Luxembourg statutory income tax rate of 29.22% for the reasons set forth in the following table (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Expected tax provision (benefit) at Luxembourg statutory income tax rate $ 75,819 $ (1,144,822 ) $ 295,150 Foreign income tax differential 40,099 42,339 51,787 Nontaxable interest income (53,361 ) (67,651 ) — Domestic financing activities 6,038 40,169 (8,279 ) Change in tax rate — — 416,156 Tax deductible impairment charges in Luxembourg subsidiaries — (854,393 ) (1,280,759 ) Goodwill impairment — 599,974 — Changes in unrecognized tax benefits 1,229 (15,465 ) (1,629 ) Changes in valuation allowance (24,147 ) 1,463,774 554,479 Tax effect of 2011 Intercompany Sale (6,740 ) (6,112 ) (6,701 ) Foreign tax credits (2,147 ) (2,171 ) (5,480 ) Research and development tax credits (5,564 ) (2,103 ) (3,275 ) Other (8,255 ) (52,026 ) 4,537 Total income tax provision (benefit) $ 22,971 $ 1,513 $ 15,986 The majority of our operations are located in taxable jurisdictions, including Luxembourg, the United States and the United Kingdom. Our Luxembourg companies that file tax returns as a consolidated group generated a taxable loss for the year ended December 31, 2016. Due to our cumulative losses in recent years, and the inherent uncertainty associated with the realization of taxable income in the foreseeable future, we recorded a full valuation allowance against the net operating losses generated in Luxembourg. The difference between tax expense (benefit) reported in the consolidated statements of operations and tax computed at statutory rates is attributable to the valuation allowance on losses generated in Luxembourg, the provision for foreign taxes, which were principally in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as withholding taxes on revenue earned in many of the foreign markets in which we operate. Our Luxembourg net operating loss includes the effect of Luxembourg GAAP to U.S. GAAP differences, primarily related to fair value adjustments attributable to the migration of certain holding companies and subsidiaries’ jurisdiction of organization from Bermuda to Luxembourg on December 15, 2009 and the result of a series of internal transactions and related steps completed on January 12, 2011, that reorganized the ownership of our assets among our subsidiaries and effectively combined the legacy business of Intelsat Subsidiary Holding Company S.A. and Intelsat Corporation. Another reason for our Luxembourg net operating loss is the impairment charges against Luxembourg GAAP values of certain intangible assets and investments in subsidiaries. The following table details the composition of the net deferred tax balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 (in thousands): As of As of Long-term deferred taxes, net $ (160,802 ) $ (168,445 ) Other assets 12,203 15,181 Net deferred taxes $ (148,599 ) $ (153,264 ) The components of the net deferred tax liability were as follows (in thousands): As of As of Deferred tax assets: Accruals and advances $ 26,672 $ 31,015 Amortizable intangible assets 739,058 17,549 Performance incentives 17,596 14,599 Customer deposits 17,771 20,664 Bad debt reserve 3,607 8,659 Accrued retirement benefits 72,520 67,988 Disallowed interest expense carryforward 111,038 109,575 Net operating loss carryforward 2,232,359 3,937,736 Tax credits 36,656 17,562 Other 14,646 16,491 Total deferred tax assets 3,271,923 4,241,848 Deferred tax liabilities: Satellites and other property and equipment (172,574 ) (186,390 ) Amortizable intangible assets (30,788 ) (379,653 ) Non-amortizable intangible assets (116,526 ) (109,844 ) Tax basis differences in investments and affiliates (218,583 ) (231,210 ) Other (21,040 ) (72,524 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (559,511 ) (979,621 ) Valuation allowance (2,861,011 ) (3,415,491 ) Total net deferred tax liabilities $ (148,599 ) $ (153,264 ) In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes As of December 31, 2015 and 2016, our consolidated balance sheets included a deferred tax asset in the amount of $2.2 billion and $3.9 billion, respectively, attributable to the future benefit from the utilization of certain net operating loss carryforwards. The reason for this increase is that during the year ending December 31, 2016, our Luxembourg subsidiaries recorded various impairment charges in their Luxembourg GAAP books. Due to our full valuation allowance on deferred tax assets in our Luxembourg subsidiaries, these impairment charges had no impact on our tax expense. In addition, our balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016 included $46.3 million and $28.7 million of deferred tax assets, respectively, attributable to the future benefit from the utilization of tax credit carryforwards. As of December 31, 2016, we had tax-effected U.S. federal, state and other foreign tax net operating loss carryforwards of $56.4 million expiring, for the most part, between 2021 and 2036, and tax effected Luxembourg net operating loss carryforwards of $3.9 billion without expiration. These Luxembourg net operating loss carryforwards were caused primarily by our interest expense, satellite depreciation and amortization and impairment charges under Luxembourg GAAP related to investments in subsidiaries, goodwill and other intangible assets. Our alternative minimum tax credit carryforward of $8.9 million may be carried forward indefinitely, our foreign tax credit carryforward of $17.2 million may be carried forward to years between 2023 and 2026, and the $2.6 million research and development credit may be carried forward to 2036. Our valuation allowance as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 was $2.9 billion and $3.4 billion, respectively. Almost all of the valuation allowance relates to Luxembourg net operating loss carryforwards and deferred tax assets created by differences between U.S. GAAP and Luxembourg tax basis. Certain operations of our subsidiaries are controlled by various intercompany agreements which provide these subsidiaries with predictable operating profits. Other subsidiaries, principally Luxembourg subsidiaries, are subject to the risks of our overall business conditions which make their earnings less predictable. The following table summarizes the activity related to our unrecognized tax benefits (in thousands): 2015 2016 Balance at January 1 $ 67,135 $ 40,248 Increases related to current year tax positions 3,237 2,301 Increases related to prior year tax positions 962 1,530 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (1,068 ) (878 ) Expiration of statute of limitations for the assessment of taxes (30,018 ) (7,034 ) Balance at December 31 $ 40,248 $ 36,167 As of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016 our gross unrecognized tax benefits were $40.2 million and $36.2 million, respectively (including interest and penalties), of which $29.6 million and $27.9 million, respectively, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rate. As of December 31, 2015 and 2016, we had recorded reserves for interest and penalties in the amount of $5.0 million and $3.1 million, respectively. We continue to recognize interest and, to the extent applicable, penalties with respect to the unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense. Since December 31, 2016, the change in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits consisted of an increase of $2.3 million related to current tax positions, an increase of $1.5 million related to prior tax positions, a decrease of $0.8 million related to prior tax positions and due to a settlement of an audit, and a decrease of $7.0 million due to the expiration of statute of limitations for the assessment of taxes. We operate in various taxable jurisdictions throughout the world and our tax returns are subject to audit and review from time to time. We consider Luxembourg, the United States, the United Kingdom and Brazil to be our significant tax jurisdictions. Our Luxembourg, U.S., United Kingdom and Brazilian subsidiaries are subject to income tax examination for periods after December 31, 2010. Within the next twelve months, we believe that there are no jurisdictions in which the outcome of unresolved tax issues or claims is likely to be material to our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. On March 3, 2014, Intelsat Corp, Intelsat Global Service LLC, Intelsat General, Intelsat USA License LLC and Intelsat USA Sales LLC were notified by the District of Columbia Office of the Tax Revenue of its intent to initiate an audit for the tax years ending 2010 and 2011. In June 2016, we received a notice of proposed audit changes with no material assessment.

Contractual Commitments

Contractual Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contractual Commitments	Note 15 Contractual Commitments In the further development and operation of our commercial global communications satellite system, significant additional expenditures are anticipated. In connection with these and other expenditures, we have a significant amount of long-term debt, as described in “Note 12—Long-Term Debt.” In addition to these debt and related interest obligations, we have expenditures represented by other contractual commitments. The additional expenditures as of December 31, 2016 and the expected year of payment are as follows (in thousands): Satellite Satellite Horizons-3 Obligations (1) Operating Sublease Rental Customer and Total 2017 $ 482,546 $ 44,878 $ 21,700 $ 14,304 $ (410 ) $ 118,672 $ 681,690 2018 234,238 34,147 36,400 13,795 (407 ) 47,327 365,500 2019 121,925 32,224 4,600 13,597 (355 ) 41,157 213,148 2020 32,269 32,150 11,700 13,128 (263 ) 17,336 106,320 2021 30,682 31,354 13,300 12,954 (48 ) 870 89,112 2022 and thereafter 47,814 187,459 74,700 106,357 (184 ) — 416,146 Total contractual commitments $ 949,474 $ 362,212 $ 162,400 $ 174,135 $ (1,667 ) $ 225,362 $ 1,871,916 (1) See Note 10(b)—Investments—Horizons-3 Satellite LLC. (a) Satellite Construction and Launch Obligations As of December 31, 2016, we had approximately $949.5 million of expenditures remaining under our existing satellite construction and launch contracts. Satellite launch and in-orbit insurance contracts related to future satellites to be launched are cancelable up to thirty days prior to the satellite’s launch. As of December 31, 2016, we did not have any non-cancelable commitments related to existing launch insurance or in-orbit insurance contracts for satellites to be launched. The satellite construction contracts typically require that we make progress payments during the period of the satellites’ construction. The satellite construction contracts contain provisions that allow us to terminate the contracts with or without cause. If terminated without cause, we would forfeit the progress payments and be subject to termination payments that escalate with the passage of time. If terminated for cause, we would be entitled to recover any payments we made under the contracts and certain liquidated damages as specified in the contracts. (b) Satellite Performance Incentive Obligations Satellite construction contracts also typically require that we make orbital incentive payments (plus interest as defined in each agreement with the satellite manufacturer) over the orbital life of the satellite. The incentive obligations may be subject to reduction or refund if the satellite fails to meet specific technical operating standards. As of December 31, 2016, we had $362.2 million of satellite performance incentive obligations, including future interest payments. (c) Operating Leases We have commitments for operating leases primarily relating to equipment and office facilities, including our U.S. Administrative Headquarters in McLean, Virginia. As of December 31, 2016, the total obligation related to operating leases, net of sublease income on leased facilities and rental income, was $172.5 million. Rental income and sublease income are included in other expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Total rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, was $13.0 million, $14.9 million and $14.0 million, respectively. (d) Customer and Vendor Contracts We have contracts with certain customers that require us to provide equipment, services and other support during the term of the related contracts. We also have long-term contractual obligations with service providers primarily for the operation of certain of our satellites. As of December 31, 2016, we had commitments under these customer and vendor contracts which totaled approximately $225.4 million related to the provision of equipment, services and other support.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Note 16 Contingencies We are subject to litigation in the ordinary course of business. Management does not believe that the resolution of any pending proceedings would have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.

Business and Geographic Segment

Business and Geographic Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business and Geographic Segment Information	Note 17 Business and Geographic Segment Information We operate in a single industry segment in which we provide satellite services to our communications customers around the world. Revenue by region is based on the locations of customers to which services are billed. Our satellites are in geosynchronous orbit, and consequently are not attributable to any geographic location. Of our remaining assets, substantially all are located in the United States. The geographic distribution of our revenue based upon billing region of the customer was as follows: Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended North America 45 % 47 % 49 % Europe 17 % 15 % 14 % Latin America and Caribbean 16 % 15 % 15 % Africa and Middle East 14 % 14 % 13 % Asia-Pacific 8 % 9 % 9 % Approximately 4%, 7% and 8% of our revenue was derived from our largest customer during each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. The ten largest customers accounted for approximately 26%, 29% and 31% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. We earn revenue primarily by providing services to our customers using our satellite transponder capacity. Our customers generally obtain satellite capacity from us by placing an order pursuant to one of several master customer service agreements. On-network services are comprised primarily of services delivered on our owned network infrastructure, as well as commitments for third-party capacity, generally long-term in nature, that we integrate and market as part of our owned infrastructure. In the case of third-party services in support of government applications, the commitments for third-party capacity are shorter and matched to the government contracting period, and thus remain classified as off-network services. Off-network services can include transponder services and other satellite-based transmission services, such as mobile satellite services (“MSS”), which are sourced from other operators, often in frequencies not available on our network. Under the category Off-Network and Other Revenues, we also include revenues from consulting and other services. In addition, effective first quarter 2015, certain revenues have been reclassified between transponder services and managed services across our customer sets in order to better reflect the nature of the underlying business. Our revenues were derived from the following services, with Off-Network and Other Revenues shown separately from On-Network Revenues (in thousands, except percentages): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended On-Network Revenues Transponder services $ 1,779,458 72 % $ 1,705,568 73 % $ 1,561,108 71 % Managed services 415,269 17 % 405,330 17 % 414,758 19 % Channel 58,669 2 % 38,872 2 % 9,134 0 % Total on-network revenues 2,253,396 91 % 2,149,770 91 % 1,985,000 91 % Off-Network and Other Revenues Transponder, MSS and other off-network services 171,637 7 % 160,063 7 % 157,212 7 % Satellite-related services 47,353 2 % 42,688 2 % 45,835 2 % Total off-network and other revenues 218,990 9 % 202,751 9 % 203,047 9 % Total $ 2,472,386 100 % $ 2,352,521 100 % $ 2,188,047 100 %

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Note 18 Related Party Transactions (a) Shareholders’ Agreements Certain shareholders of Intelsat Global S.A. entered into shareholders’ agreements on February 4, 2008. The shareholders’ agreements were assigned to Intelsat S.A. by amendments effective as of March 30, 2012. The shareholders’ agreements and the articles of incorporation of Intelsat S.A. provided, among other things, for the governance of Intelsat S.A. and its subsidiaries and provided specific rights to and limitations upon the holders of Intelsat S.A.’s share capital with respect to shares held by such holders. In connection with the IPO in April 2013, these articles of incorporation and shareholders’ agreements were amended. (b) Governance Agreement Prior to the consummation of the IPO, we entered into a governance agreement (as amended, the “Governance Agreement”) with our shareholder affiliated with BC Partners (the “BC Shareholder”), our shareholder affiliated with Silver Lake (the “Silver Lake Shareholder”) and David McGlade (collectively with the BC Shareholder and the Silver Lake Shareholder, the “Governance Shareholders”). The Governance Agreement contains provisions relating to the composition of our board of directors and certain other matters. (c) Indemnification Agreements We have entered into agreements with our executive officers and directors to provide contractual indemnification in addition to the indemnification provided for in our articles of incorporation. (d) Horizons Holdings We have a 50% ownership interest in Horizons Holdings as a result of a joint venture with JSAT (see Note 10(a)—Investments—Horizons Holdings). (e) Horizons-3 Satellite LLC We have a 50% ownership interest in Horizons-3 Satellite LLC as a result of a joint venture with JSAT (see Note 10(b)—Investments—Horizons-3 Satellite LLC).

Quarterly Results of Operations

Quarterly Results of Operations (in thousands, unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results of Operations (in thousands, unaudited)	Note 19 Quarterly Results of Operations (in thousands, unaudited) Quarter Ended 2015 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 Revenue (1) $ 602,306 $ 598,109 $ 580,847 $ 571,259 Income (loss) from operations (1) 292,762 290,842 284,999 (3,897,122 ) Net income (loss) 55,665 61,236 78,967 (4,115,321 ) (3) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. 54,717 60,220 77,982 (4,116,306 ) (3) Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders 54,717 50,301 77,982 (4,116,306 ) (3) Net income (loss) per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.: Basic (2) $ 0.51 $ 0.47 $ 0.73 $ (38.29 ) Diluted (2) 0.47 0.47 0.66 (38.29 ) Quarter Ended 2016 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 Revenue (1) $ 552,643 $ 541,983 $ 542,727 $ 550,694 Income from operations (1) 239,173 227,324 220,410 233,705 Net income 16,292 117,412 (4) 196,605 (4) 663,803 (4) Net income attributable to Intelsat S.A. 15,326 116,429 (4) 195,622 (4) 662,820 (4) Net income attributable to common shareholders 15,326 116,429 (4) 195,622 (4) 662,820 (4) Net income per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.: Basic (2) $ 0.14 $ 1.02 $ 1.66 $ 5.62 Diluted (2) 0.13 0.98 1.65 5.56 (1) Our quarterly revenue and operating income (loss) are generally not impacted by seasonality, as customer contracts for satellite utilization are generally long-term. Revenue declines shown above were primarily due to declines from our network services customers, mainly due to reduced volumes resulting from non-renewals and point-to-point connectivity and certain cellular backhaul services which are eroding to fiber alternatives, together with non-renewals and renewal pricing at lower rates for enterprise network services. Additional declines in Channel services related to the continued migration of international point-to-point satellite traffic to fiber optic cable, a trend which we expect will continue. (2) Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly basic and diluted per share information may not equal annual basic and diluted earnings per share. (3) Includes a $4.2 billion impairment of goodwill and other intangibles. (4) The quarter ended June 30, 2016 includes a $131.4 million gain on early extinguishment of debt related to the May 2016 Intelsat Jackson Notes Repurchase. The quarter ended September 30, 2016 includes a $219.6 million gain on early extinguishment of debt related to the September 2016 Intelsat Jackson Debt Exchange and Consent Solicitation. The quarter ended December 31, 2016 includes a $679.1 million gain on early extinguishment of debt related to the December 2016 ICF Exchange Offers.

Supplemental Consolidating Fina

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information	Note 20 Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information On April 5, 2011, Intelsat Jackson completed an offering of $2.65 billion aggregate principal amount of the New Jackson Notes. The New Jackson Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by Intelsat S.A., Intelsat Holdings, Intelsat Investment Holdings S.à r.l. and Intelsat Investments (collectively, the “Parent Guarantors”); Intelsat Luxembourg and certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of Intelsat Jackson (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”). On April 26, 2012, Intelsat Jackson completed an offering of $1.2 billion aggregate principal amount of the 2020 Jackson Notes, which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by the Parent Guarantors, Intelsat Luxembourg, ICF and the Subsidiary Guarantors. Separate financial statements of the Parent Guarantors, Intelsat Luxembourg, ICF, Intelsat Jackson and the Subsidiary Guarantors are not presented because management believes that such financial statements would not be material to investors. Investments in Intelsat Jackson’s subsidiaries in the following condensed consolidating financial information are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Consolidating adjustments include the following: • elimination of investment in subsidiaries; • elimination of intercompany accounts; • elimination of intercompany sales between guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries; and • elimination of equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries. We had other comprehensive loss of $52.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, and other comprehensive income of $34.1 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively. Other comprehensive income (loss) is fully attributable to the Subsidiary Guarantors, which are also consolidated within Intelsat Jackson. INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2016 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation Consolidated ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 552 $ 59,752 $ 29,985 $ 495,225 $ 414,339 $ 80,510 $ (414,339 ) $ 666,024 Receivables, net of allowance 2 — — 151,345 151,322 51,689 (151,322 ) 203,036 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 882 3 — 48,320 48,263 6,703 (48,263 ) 55,908 Intercompany receivables — — 8,867 557,959 — 302,118 (868,944 ) — Total current assets $ 1,436 $ 59,755 $ 38,852 $ 1,252,849 $ 613,924 $ 441,020 $ (1,482,868 ) $ 924,968 Satellites and other property and equipment, net — — — 6,096,459 6,096,459 89,383 (6,096,459 ) 6,185,842 Goodwill — — — 2,620,627 2,620,627 — (2,620,627 ) 2,620,627 Non-amortizable intangible assets — — — 2,452,900 2,452,900 — (2,452,900 ) 2,452,900 Amortizable intangible assets, net — — — 391,838 391,838 — (391,838 ) 391,838 Investment in affiliates (3,086,095 ) (23,113 ) (651,909 ) 184,804 184,804 — 3,391,509 — Other assets 169 — 681,910 303,623 303,623 62,123 (985,614 ) 365,834 Total assets $ (3,084,490 ) $ 36,642 $ 68,853 $ 13,303,100 $ 12,664,175 $ 592,526 $ (10,638,797 ) $ 12,942,009 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 23,153 $ — $ 10,830 $ 221,564 $ 218,897 $ 27,351 $ (218,897 ) $ 282,898 Accrued interest payable — 13,158 2,287 189,395 3,146 — (3,146 ) 204,840 Deferred satellite performance incentives — — — 23,455 23,455 — (23,455 ) 23,455 Other current liabilities — — — 219,389 219,389 3,081 (219,389 ) 222,470 Intercompany payables 502,355 366,589 — — 2,183,616 — (3,052,560 ) — Total current liabilities 525,508 379,747 13,117 653,803 2,648,503 30,432 (3,517,447 ) 733,663 Long-term debt, net of current portion — 3,467,902 434,627 11,702,378 — — (1,406,823 ) 14,198,084 Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion — — — 210,706 210,706 — (210,706 ) 210,706 Deferred revenue, net of current portion — — — 906,521 906,521 223 (906,521 ) 906,744 Deferred income taxes — — — 156,081 156,081 12,444 (156,161 ) 168,445 Accrued retirement benefits — — — 186,086 186,086 198 (186,086 ) 186,284 Other long-term liabilities — — 1,554 139,434 139,434 7,093 (139,434 ) 148,081 Shareholders’ equity (deficit): Common shares 1,180 7,202 — 200 5,558,066 24 (5,565,492 ) 1,180 Other shareholders’ equity (deficit) (3,611,178 ) (3,818,209 ) (380,445 ) (652,109 ) 2,858,778 542,112 1,449,873 (3,611,178 ) Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ (3,084,490 ) $ 36,642 $ 68,853 $ 13,303,100 $ 12,664,175 $ 592,526 $ (10,638,797 ) $ 12,942,009 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Consolidation and Consolidated ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 16,941 $ 760 $ 109,959 $ 89,641 $ 43,881 $ (89,641 ) $ 171,541 Receivables, net of allowance — — 173,869 173,638 58,906 (173,638 ) 232,775 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 919 — 28,633 28,593 6,680 (29,041 ) 35,784 Intercompany receivables — 116,396 49,539 — 323,173 (489,108 ) — Total current assets 17,860 117,156 362,000 291,872 432,640 (781,428 ) 440,100 Satellites and other property and equipment, net — — 5,897,103 5,897,103 91,214 (5,897,103 ) 5,988,317 Goodwill — — 2,620,627 2,620,627 — (2,620,627 ) 2,620,627 Non-amortizable intangible assets — — 2,452,900 2,452,900 — (2,452,900 ) 2,452,900 Amortizable intangible assets, net — — 440,330 440,330 — (440,330 ) 440,330 Investment in affiliates (4,120,570 ) (769,452 ) 139,983 139,983 — 4,610,056 — Other assets 87 — 278,771 278,771 32,458 (278,771 ) 311,316 Total assets $ (4,102,623 ) $ (652,296 ) $ 12,191,714 $ 12,121,586 $ 556,312 $ (7,861,103 ) $ 12,253,590 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 28,622 $ 10 $ 154,247 $ 154,861 $ 29,053 $ (155,309 ) $ 211,484 Accrued interest payable — 22,360 139,133 1,964 — (1,964 ) 161,493 Deferred satellite performance incentives — — 19,411 19,411 — (19,411 ) 19,411 Other current liabilities — — 168,261 166,248 3,793 (166,248 ) 172,054 Intercompany payables 489,108 — — 2,038,908 — (2,528,016 ) — Total current liabilities 517,730 22,370 481,052 2,381,392 32,846 (2,870,948 ) 564,442 Long-term debt, net of current portion — 3,442,462 11,168,917 — — — 14,611,379 Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion — — 162,177 162,177 — (162,177 ) 162,177 Deferred revenue, net of current portion — — 1,010,019 1,010,019 223 (1,010,019 ) 1,010,242 Deferred income taxes — — 150,283 150,283 10,519 (150,283 ) 160,802 Accrued retirement benefits — — 195,170 195,170 215 (195,170 ) 195,385 Other long-term liabilities — — 161,420 161,420 8,096 (161,420 ) 169,516 Shareholders’ equity (deficit): Common shares 1,076 7,202 3,114,981 5,558,066 24 (8,680,273 ) 1,076 Preferred shares 35 — — — — — 35 Other shareholders’ equity (deficit) (4,621,464 ) (4,124,330 ) (4,252,305 ) 2,503,059 504,389 5,369,187 (4,621,464 ) Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ (4,102,623 ) $ (652,296 ) $ 12,191,714 $ 12,121,586 $ 556,312 $ (7,861,103 ) $ 12,253,590 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. and Intelsat Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Subsidiary Non- Guarantor Consolidation Consolidated Revenue $ 2,952 $ — $ — $ 1,999,114 $ 1,999,129 $ 562,372 $ (2,375,520 ) $ 2,188,047 Operating expenses: Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) — — — 264,587 264,587 452,899 (640,926 ) 341,147 Selling, general and administrative 7,884 168 61 140,952 137,488 79,083 (134,239 ) 231,397 Depreciation and amortization — — — 676,542 676,542 18,349 (676,542 ) 694,891 Total operating expenses 7,884 168 61 1,082,081 1,078,617 550,331 (1,451,707 ) 1,267,435 Income (loss) from operations (4,932 ) (168 ) (61 ) 917,033 920,512 12,041 (923,813 ) 920,612 Interest expense (income), net 13,596 272,791 8 661,671 183,931 (9,505 ) (183,991 ) 938,501 Gain on early extinguishment of debt — — — 350,962 — — 679,130 1,030,092 Subsidiary income 1,008,614 605,685 597,995 9,869 9,869 — (2,232,032 ) — Other income (expense), net (4 ) — — (5,909 ) 1,812 3,808 (1,812 ) (2,105 ) Income before income taxes 990,082 332,726 597,926 610,284 748,262 25,354 (2,294,536 ) 1,010,098 Provision for (benefit from) income taxes (115 ) — — 12,290 12,290 3,811 (12,290 ) 15,986 Net income 990,197 332,726 597,926 597,994 735,972 21,543 (2,282,246 ) 994,112 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest — — — — — (3,915 ) — (3,915 ) Net income attributable to Intelsat S.A. $ 990,197 $ 332,726 $ 597,926 $ 597,994 $ 735,972 $ 17,628 $ (2,282,246 ) $ 990,197 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Consolidation Consolidated Revenue $ — $ — $ 2,160,235 $ 2,160,251 $ 554,831 $ (2,522,796 ) $ 2,352,521 Operating expenses: Direct costs of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) — — 241,603 241,603 449,274 (603,979 ) 328,501 Selling, general and administrative 7,912 193 126,331 125,494 65,143 (125,661 ) 199,412 Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles — — 4,165,400 4,165,400 — (4,165,400 ) 4,165,400 Depreciation and amortization — — 654,784 654,784 32,945 (654,784 ) 687,729 Total operating expenses 7,912 193 5,188,118 5,187,281 547,362 (5,549,824 ) 5,381,042 Income (loss) from operations (7,912 ) (193 ) (3,027,883 ) (3,027,030 ) 7,469 3,027,028 (3,028,521 ) Interest expense (income), net 10,723 274,451 613,162 36,059 (8,057 ) (36,059 ) 890,279 Gain on early extinguishment of debt — 7,061 — — — — 7,061 Subsidiary income (loss) (3,904,747 ) (3,614,952 ) 11,983 11,983 — 7,495,733 — Other income (expense), net — — 4,367 (5,136 ) (10,568 ) 5,136 (6,201 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (3,923,382 ) (3,882,535 ) (3,624,695 ) (3,056,242 ) 4,958 10,563,956 (3,917,940 ) Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 3 — (1,871 ) (1,885 ) 3,381 1,885 1,513 Net income (loss) (3,923,385 ) (3,882,535 ) (3,622,824 ) (3,054,357 ) 1,577 10,562,071 (3,919,453 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest — — — — (3,934 ) — (3,934 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. (3,923,385 ) (3,882,535 ) (3,622,824 ) (3,054,357 ) (2,357 ) 10,562,071 (3,923,387 ) Cumulative preferred dividends (9,919 ) — — — — — (9,919 ) Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders $ (3,933,304 ) $ (3,882,535 ) $ (3,622,824 ) $ (3,054,357 ) $ (2,357 ) $ 10,562,071 $ (3,933,306 ) (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Consolidation Consolidated Revenue $ — $ — $ 2,281,331 $ 2,281,348 $ 592,317 $ (2,682,610 ) $ 2,472,386 Operating expenses: Direct costs of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) — — 257,999 257,999 491,460 (659,110 ) 348,348 Selling, general and administrative 7,547 139 132,379 131,874 57,493 (132,025 ) 197,407 Depreciation and amortization — — 644,597 644,597 34,754 (644,597 ) 679,351 Total operating expenses 7,547 139 1,034,975 1,034,470 583,707 (1,435,732 ) 1,225,106 Income (loss) from operations (7,547 ) (139 ) 1,246,356 1,246,878 8,610 (1,246,878 ) 1,247,280 Interest expense, net 10,153 274,253 660,763 6,605 (382 ) (6,605 ) 944,787 Loss on early extinguishment of debt — — (40,423 ) — — — (40,423 ) Subsidiary income 250,281 545,402 14,729 14,729 — (825,141 ) — Other income (expense), net 2 — 2,864 2,770 (5,461 ) (2,768 ) (2,593 ) Income before income taxes 232,583 271,010 562,763 1,257,772 3,531 (2,068,182 ) 259,477 Provision for income taxes 53 — 17,361 17,268 5,557 (17,268 ) 22,971 Net income (loss) 232,530 271,010 545,402 1,240,504 (2,026 ) (2,050,914 ) 236,506 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest — — — — (3,974 ) — (3,974 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. 232,530 271,010 545,402 1,240,504 (6,000 ) (2,050,914 ) 232,532 Cumulative preferred dividends (9,917 ) — — — — — (9,917 ) Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders $ 222,613 $ 271,010 $ 545,402 $ 1,240,504 $ (6,000 ) $ (2,050,914 ) $ 222,615 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Connect Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation Consolidated Cash flows from operating activities: $ (10,234 ) $ 89,342 $ 4,764 $ 917,923 $ 1,506,746 $ (314,986 ) $ (1,510,049 ) $ 683,506 Cash flows from investing activities: Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest) — — — (699,213 ) (699,213 ) (15,357 ) 699,213 (714,570 ) Repayment from intercompany loans 4,895 — — — — 359,237 (364,132 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (6,087 ) (300,050 ) — (30,655 ) (10,955 ) — 347,747 — Dividend from affiliates — 269,700 — 8,980 8,980 — (287,660 ) — Purchase of cost method investment — — — (4,000 ) (4,000 ) — 4,000 (4,000 ) Capital contributions to unconsolidated affiliates — — — — — (10,340 ) — (10,340 ) Other investing activities — — — — — (1,679 ) — (1,679 ) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (1,192 ) (30,350 ) — (724,888 ) (705,188 ) 331,861 399,168 (730,589 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — — — 1,250,000 — — — 1,250,000 Repayments of long-term debt — — — (328,944 ) — — — (328,944 ) Disbursements for intercompany loans — — — (364,132 ) (12,438 ) — 376,570 — Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt — — — (32 ) — — — (32 ) Debt issuance costs — — (15,562 ) (26,133 ) — — 3,302 (38,393 ) Payments on tender, debt exchange and consent transaction — — (259,267 ) (34,009 ) — — — (293,276 ) Dividends paid to preferred shareholders (4,959 ) — — — — — — (4,959 ) Other payments for satellites — — — (18,333 ) (18,333 ) — 18,333 (18,333 ) Capital contribution from parent — — 300,050 — 96,658 36,742 (433,450 ) — Dividends to shareholders — — — (269,700 ) (524,327 ) (8,980 ) 803,007 — Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives — — — (17,429 ) (17,429 ) — 17,429 (17,429 ) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — — (8,980 ) — (8,980 ) Other financing activities — — — 1,942 — — — 1,942 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (4,959 ) — 25,221 193,230 (475,869 ) 18,782 785,191 541,596 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (4 ) — — (999 ) (991 ) 972 992 (30 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents (16,389 ) 58,992 29,985 385,266 324,698 36,629 (324,698 ) 494,483 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 16,941 760 — 109,959 89,641 43,881 (89,641 ) 171,541 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 552 $ 59,752 $ 29,985 $ 495,225 $ 414,339 $ 80,510 $ (414,339 ) $ 666,024 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation and Consolidated Cash flows from operating activities: $ 724 $ (251,879 ) $ 1,138,747 $ 1,629,412 $ 22,438 $ (1,629,411 ) $ 910,031 Cash flows from investing activities: Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest) — — (720,273 ) (720,273 ) (4,089 ) 720,273 (724,362 ) Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans 9,538 — 2,064 2,064 (346,799 ) 333,133 — Investment in subsidiaries (7,355 ) (610,000 ) (198 ) (40,444 ) — 657,997 — Dividend from affiliates 19,000 898,400 28,423 28,423 — (974,246 ) — Purchase of cost method investment — — (25,000 ) (25,000 ) — 25,000 (25,000 ) Other investing activities — — 432 432 (424 ) (432 ) 8 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 21,183 288,400 (714,552 ) (754,798 ) (351,312 ) 761,725 (749,354 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Repayments of long-term debt — (17,829 ) (479,000 ) — — — (496,829 ) Proceeds from drawdown of long-term debt — — 430,000 — — — 430,000 Proceeds from (repayment of) intercompany borrowing (1,430 ) — 337,261 — (634 ) (335,197 ) — Dividends paid to preferred shareholders (9,919 ) — — — — — (9,919 ) Capital contribution from parent — — 250,000 86,316 367,553 (703,869 ) — Dividends to shareholders — (19,000 ) (898,400 ) (916,697 ) (28,423 ) 1,862,520 — Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives — — (18,405 ) (18,405 ) (1,163 ) 18,405 (19,568 ) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — (8,423 ) — (8,423 ) Other financing activities 154 — 1,600 1,600 — (1,601 ) 1,753 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (11,195 ) (36,829 ) (376,944 ) (847,186 ) 328,910 840,258 (102,986 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents — — (925 ) (931 ) (8,372 ) 931 (9,297 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents 10,712 (308 ) 46,326 26,497 (8,336 ) (26,497 ) 48,394 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 6,229 1,068 63,633 63,144 52,217 (63,144 ) 123,147 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 16,941 $ 760 $ 109,959 $ 89,641 $ 43,881 $ (89,641 ) $ 171,541 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation Eliminations Consolidated Cash flows from operating activities: $ (1,366 ) $ (270,171 ) $ 1,253,342 $ 1,887,340 $ 64,363 $ (1,887,338 ) $ 1,046,170 Cash flows from investing activities: Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest) — — (639,603 ) (639,603 ) (5,821 ) 639,603 (645,424 ) Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans 9,214 — 3,873 3,873 — (16,960 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (3,790 ) — (194 ) (194 ) — 4,178 — Dividend from affiliates 8,300 279,400 33,943 33,943 — (355,586 ) — Other investing activities — — 174 174 — (174 ) 174 Net cash provided by (used in)investing activities 13,724 279,400 (601,807 ) (601,807 ) (5,821 ) 271,061 (645,250 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Repayments of long-term debt — — (586,000 ) — (24,418 ) — (610,418 ) Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt — — (21,250 ) — — — (21,250 ) Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — — 135,000 — — — 135,000 Proceeds from (repayment of) intercompany borrowing (4,233 ) — (9,214 ) — 360 13,087 — Dividends paid to preferred shareholders (9,919 ) — — — — — (9,919 ) Capital contribution from parent — — 103,698 3,984 (107,682 ) — Dividends to shareholders — (8,300 ) (279,400 ) (1,473,781 ) (33,943 ) 1,795,424 — Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives — — (18,705 ) (18,705 ) (1,069 ) 18,705 (19,774 ) Capital contribution from noncontrolling interest — — — — 12,209 — 12,209 Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — (8,744 ) — (8,744 ) Other financing activities 4,231 — (338 ) (338 ) — 338 3,893 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (9,921 ) (8,300 ) (779,907 ) (1,389,126 ) (51,621 ) 1,719,872 (519,003 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents — — (1,085 ) (1,063 ) (5,473 ) 1,061 (6,560 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents 2,437 929 (129,457 ) (104,656 ) 1,448 104,656 (124,643 ) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 3,792 139 193,090 167,800 50,769 (167,800 ) 247,790 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 6,229 $ 1,068 $ 63,633 $ 63,144 $ 52,217 $ (63,144 ) $ 123,147 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding)

SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALI

SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Description Balance at Beginning of Charged to Deductions Balance at (in thousands) Year ended December 31, 2014: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 35,288 $ 2,306 $ (2,420 ) $ 35,174 Year ended December 31, 2015: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 35,174 $ 7,432 $ (5,428 ) $ 37,178 Year ended December 31, 2016: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 37,178 $ 24,591 $ (7,025 ) $ 54,744

Significant Accounting Polici31

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	(a) Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Intelsat S.A., its wholly-owned subsidiaries, and variable interest entities (“VIE”) of which we are the primary beneficiary. We are the primary beneficiary of one VIE, as more fully described in Note 10—Investments, and accordingly, we include in our consolidated financial statements the assets and liabilities and results of operations of the entity, even though we may not own a majority voting interest. We use the equity method to account for our investments in entities where we exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies but do not retain control under either the voting interest model (generally 20% to 50% ownership interest) or the variable interest model. In 2015, we entered into a joint venture agreement as further described in Note 10—Investments, and the investment is accounted for using the equity method. We have eliminated all significant intercompany accounts and transactions.
Use of Estimates	(b) Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods, and the disclosures of contingent liabilities. Accordingly, ultimate results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition	(c) Revenue Recognition We earn revenue from providing satellite services and managed services to customers. We enter into contracts with customers to provide satellite transponders and transponder capacity and, in certain cases, earth stations and teleport facilities, for periods typically ranging from one year to the life of the satellite. Our revenue recognition policies are as follows: Satellite Utilization Charges. Satellite Related Consulting and Technical Services. Tracking, Telemetry and Commanding (“TT&C”). In-Orbit Backup Services. Revenue Share Arrangements. We may sell these products or services individually or in some combination to our customers. When these products and services are sold together, we account for the multiple elements under FASB ASC Topic 605-25, Revenue Recognition-Multiple Element Arrangements
Fair Value Measurements	(d) Fair Value Measurements We estimate the fair value of our financial instruments using available market information and valuation methodologies. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate their fair values because of the short maturity of these financial instruments. FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels as follows: • Level 1—unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; • Level 2—quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs other than quoted market prices that are observable or that can be corroborated by observable market data by correlation; and • Level 3—unobservable inputs based upon the reporting entity’s internally developed assumptions which market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	(e) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, which are generally time deposits with banks and money market funds. The carrying amount of these investments approximates market value.
Receivables and Allowances for Doubtful Accounts	(f) Receivables and Allowances for Doubtful Accounts We provide satellite services and extend credit to numerous customers in the satellite communication, telecommunications and video markets. We monitor our exposure to credit losses and maintain allowances for doubtful accounts and anticipated losses. We believe we have adequate customer collateral and reserves to cover our exposure. If we determine that the collection of payments is not reasonably assured at the time the respective service is provided, we defer recognition of the revenue until we believe collection is reasonably assured or the payment is received.
Satellites and Other Property and Equipment	(g) Satellites and Other Property and Equipment Satellites and other property and equipment are stated at historical cost, or in the case of certain satellites acquired, the fair value at the date of acquisition. Capitalized costs consist primarily of the costs of satellite construction and launch, including launch insurance and insurance during the period of in-orbit testing, the net present value of performance incentives expected to be payable to the satellite manufacturers (dependent on the continued satisfactory performance of the satellites), costs directly associated with the monitoring and support of satellite construction, and interest costs incurred during the period of satellite construction. We depreciate satellites and other property and equipment on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives: Years Buildings and improvements 10 - 40 Satellites and related costs 11 - 17 Ground segment equipment and software 4 - 15 Furniture and fixtures and computer hardware 4 - 12 Leasehold improvements (1) 2 - 12 (1) Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the improvement or the remaining lease term.
Other Assets	(h) Other Assets Other assets consist of investments in certain equity securities, long-term deposits, long-term receivables and other miscellaneous deferred charges and long-term assets.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	(i) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets We account for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other Intangible assets arising from business combinations are initially recorded at fair value. We record other intangible assets at cost. We amortize intangible assets with determinable lives (consisting of backlog and customer relationships) based on the expected pattern of consumption. We review these intangible assets for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. See Note 11—Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	(j) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets We review long-lived assets, including property and equipment and acquired intangible assets with estimable useful lives, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such an asset may not be recoverable. These indicators of impairment can include, but are not limited to, the following: • satellite anomalies, such as a partial or full loss of power; • under-performance of an asset compared to expectations; and • shortened useful lives due to changes in the way an asset is used or expected to be used. The recoverability of an asset to be held and used is determined by comparing the carrying amount to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, we record an impairment charge in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, which we determine by either a quoted market price, if any, or a value determined by utilizing discounted cash flow techniques.
Income Taxes	(k) Income Taxes We account for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740— Income Taxes We regularly assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets can be recovered. A valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We evaluate the recoverability of our deferred tax assets based in part on the existence of deferred tax liabilities that can be used to realize the deferred tax assets. During the ordinary course of business, there are transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. We evaluate our tax positions to determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position is sustainable, based solely on its technical merits and presuming the taxing authorities have full knowledge of the position and access to all relevant facts and information. When a tax position does not meet the more likely than not standard, we record a liability or contra asset for the entire amount of the unrecognized tax benefit. Additionally, for those tax positions that are determined more likely than not to be sustainable, we measure the tax position at the largest amount of benefit more likely than not (determined by cumulative probability) to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority.
Foreign Currency Translation	(l) Foreign Currency Translation Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar, since substantially all customer contracts, capital expenditure contracts and operating expense obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars. Transactions not denominated in U.S. dollars have been translated using the spot rates of exchange at the dates of the transactions. We recognize differences on exchange arising on the settlement of the transactions denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar in the consolidated statement of operations.
Comprehensive Income	(m) Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income consists of net income or loss and other gains and losses affecting shareholders’ equity that, under U.S. GAAP, are excluded from net income or loss. Such items consist primarily of the change in the market value of available-for-sale securities and pension liability adjustments.
Share-Based Compensation	(n) Share-Based Compensation Compensation cost is recognized based on the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation Awards are measured at the grant date based on the fair value as calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model for share options, a Monte Carlo simulation model for awards with market conditions, or the closing market price at the grant date for awards of shares or restricted shares units. The expense is recognized over the requisite service period, based on attainment of certain vesting requirements. The determination of the value of certain awards requires considerable judgment, including estimating expected volatility, expected term and risk-free rate. The Company’s expected volatility is based on the average volatility rates of similar actively-traded companies over the range of each award’s estimated expected term, which is based on the midpoint between the expected vesting time and the remaining contractual life. The risk-free rate is derived from the applicable Constant Maturity Treasury rate.
Deferred Satellite Performance Incentives	(o) Deferred Satellite Performance Incentives The cost of satellite construction may include an element of deferred consideration that we are obligated to pay to satellite manufacturers over the lives of the satellites, provided the satellites continue to operate in accordance with contractual specifications. Historically, the satellite manufacturers have earned substantially all of these payments. Therefore, we account for these payments as deferred financing. We capitalize the present value of these payments as part of the cost of the satellites and record a corresponding liability to the satellite manufacturers. Interest expense is recognized on the deferred financing and the liability is reduced as the payments are made.
Derivative Instruments	(p) Derivative Instruments We previously held undesignated interest rate swaps which matured in January 2016. The swaps were marked-to-market quarterly, with any change in fair value recorded as interest expense, net. In December 2016, we accounted for a contingent put option embedded within Intelsat Connect Finance S.A.’s (“ICF’s”) 12 1 2 Derivatives and Hedging
New Accounting Pronouncements	(q) New Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) Revenue Recognition • In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date • In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) • In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing ASU 2014-09 • In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients • In December 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The standard affects certain narrow aspects of the guidance issued in ASU 2014-09. We are still in the process of evaluating the impact that these standards will have on our consolidated financial statements and associated disclosures, and have not yet selected a transition method. Based on our initial assessment, we believe that the main changes from the new revenue standard will include: adjustments to the promised amount of consideration for effects of the time value of money for prepayment contracts with a significant financing component; capitalization of incremental costs for obtaining a contract; allocation of transaction price to all performance obligations in arrangements, irrespective of whether goods or services are provided before consideration is paid; changes to the accounting for contract modifications; and additional disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force) In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment

Significant Accounting Polici32

Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Estimated Useful Lives of Satellites and Other Property and Equipment	We depreciate satellites and other property and equipment on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives: Years Buildings and improvements 10 - 40 Satellites and related costs 11 - 17 Ground segment equipment and software 4 - 15 Furniture and fixtures and computer hardware 4 - 12 Leasehold improvements (1) 2 - 12 (1) Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the improvement or the remaining lease term.

Net Income (Loss) per Share (Ta

Net Income (Loss) per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss per Share	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.: (in thousands, except per share data or where otherwise noted) Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Numerator: Net income (loss) $ 236,506 $ (3,919,453 ) $ 994,112 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest (3,974 ) (3,934 ) (3,915 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. 232,532 (3,923,387 ) 990,197 Less: Preferred Shares dividends declared (9,917 ) (9,919 ) — Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders $ 222,615 $ (3,933,306 ) $ 990,197 Numerator for Basic EPS—income/(loss) available to common shareholders $ 222,615 $ (3,933,306 ) $ 990,197 Dilutive effect of Preferred shares 9,917 — — Numerator for Diluted EPS $ 232,532 $ (3,933,306 ) $ 990,197 Denominator: Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 106.5 107.2 114.5 Weighted average dilutive shares outstanding (in millions): Preferred shares (in millions) 9.6 — 3.2 Employee compensation related shares including options and restricted stock units (in millions) 0.6 — 0.8 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 116.7 107.2 118.5 Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A. $ 2.09 $ (36.68 ) $ 8.65 Diluted net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A. $ 1.99 $ (36.68 ) $ 8.36

Share-Based and Other Compens34

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Stock Options [Member]
Stock Option Activity	Stock Option activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of Weighted Average Weighted Average Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 1,163 $ 20.42 Granted 1,500 3.70 Modified—amended options (1) 923 3.77 Modified—original options (1) (923 ) 22.80 Forfeited (80 ) 3.77 Expired (292 ) 9.22 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 2,291 $ 3.82 7.6 $ — Exercisable at December 31, 2016 1,473 $ 3.91 6.8 $ — (1) During the year ended December 31, 2016, 0.5 million stock options under the 2008 Equity Plan and 0.4 million stock options under the 2013 Equity Plan were amended in order to modify the exercise price to $3.77 per option.
Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member]
Stock Option Activity	Anti-Dilution Option activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of Weighted Average Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 2,016 $ 18.00 Modified—amended options (1) 700 4.16 Modified—original options (1) (700 ) 18.00 Expired (406 ) 18.00 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,610 $ 11.98 6.1 $ — Exercisable at December 31, 2016 1,610 $ 11.98 6.1 $ — (1) During the year ended December 31, 2016, 0.7 million anti-dilution stock options under the 2008 Equity Plan were amended in order to modify the exercise price to $4.16 per option.
Time Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member]
Restricted Award Activity	Time-based RSUs activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of RSUs Weighted Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 2,880 $ 16.13 Granted 1,701 1.67 Vested (814 ) 15.70 Forfeited (173 ) 14.42 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 3,594 $ 9.52 1.4 $ 9.6
Performance Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member]
Restricted Award Activity	Performance-based RSUs activity during 2016 was as follows: Number of RSUs Weighted Weighted Aggregate Outstanding at January 1, 2016 1,195 $ 17.48 Granted 1,186 0.94 Cancelled (461 ) 21.96 Forfeited (91 ) 5.62 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,829 $ 6.22 1.6 $ 4.9

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured and Recorded at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	The following tables present assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets on a recurring basis and their level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands), excluding long-term debt (see Note 12—Long-Term Debt). We did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements during the year ended December 31, 2016. Fair Value Measurements at Description As of Quoted Prices in (Level 1) Significant Other Inputs (Level 2) Assets Marketable securities (1) $ 5,486 $ 5,486 $ — Total assets $ 5,486 $ 5,486 $ — Liabilities Undesignated interest rate swaps (2) $ 2,013 $ — $ 2,013 Total liabilities $ 2,013 $ — $ 2,013 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Description As of Quoted Prices in (Level 1) Significant Other Inputs (Level 2) Significant (Level 3) Assets Marketable securities (1) $ 5,381 $ 5,381 $ — $ — Total assets $ 5,381 $ 5,381 $ — $ — Liabilities Put option embedded derivative (3) $ 1,496 $ — $ — $ 1,496 Total liabilities $ 1,496 $ — $ — $ 1,496 (1) The valuation measurement inputs of these marketable securities represent unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and, accordingly, we have classified such investments within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. The cost basis of our available-for-sale marketable securities was $5.3 million at December 31, 2015 and $5.0 million at December 31, 2016. We sold marketable securities with a cost basis of $1.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 and recorded a gain on the sale of $0.1 million, which was included within other expense, net in our consolidated statement of operations. (2) The fair value of our interest rate financial derivative instruments reflects the estimated amounts that we would pay or receive to terminate the agreement at the reporting date, taking into account current interest rates, the market expectation for future interest rates and current creditworthiness of both the counterparties and ourselves. Observable inputs utilized in the income approach valuation technique incorporate identical contractual notional amounts, fixed coupon rates, periodic terms for interest payments and contract maturity. Although we have determined that the majority of the inputs used to value our derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments, if any, associated with our derivatives utilize Level 3 inputs, such as the estimates of the current credit spread, to evaluate the likelihood of default by us or our counterparties. We have assessed the significance of the inputs of the credit valuation adjustments to the overall valuation of our derivative positions and have determined that the credit valuation adjustments are not significant to the valuation of our derivatives. As a result, we have determined that our derivative valuations in their entirety are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. (3) We valued the contingent put option embedded within the 2022 ICF Notes using a valuation technique which reflects the estimated date and probability of a change of control, the fair value of the 2022 ICF Notes, and a credit valuation adjustment reflecting our credit spreads. We identified the inputs used to calculate the fair value as Level 3 inputs and concluded that the valuation in its entirety was classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Retirement Plans and Other Re36

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Reclassifications, Net of Tax	The following table presents these reclassifications, net of tax, as well as the reclassification of the realized gain on investments, and the statement of operations line items that are impacted (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Amortization of prior service credits reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs included in: Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) $ (68 ) $ (141 ) $ (3 ) Selling, general and administrative (41 ) (107 ) (2 ) Total $ (109 ) $ (248 ) $ (5 ) Amortization of actuarial loss reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs included in: Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) $ 4,070 $ 3,196 $ 1,372 Selling, general and administrative 2,440 2,048 851 Total $ 6,510 $ 5,244 $ 2,223 Realized (gain) loss on investments included in: Other expense, net $ (390 ) $ (340 ) $ (192 ) Total $ (390 ) $ (340 ) $ (192 )
Reconciliation of Funded Status and Accumulated Benefit Obligation	The following summarizes the projected benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the defined benefit retirement plan, as well as the projected benefit obligations of the postretirement medical benefits provided under our medical plan (in thousands, except percentages): Year Ended Year Ended Pension Other Post- Pension Other Post- Change in benefit obligation Benefit obligation at beginning of period $ 491,118 $ 116,086 $ 435,462 $ 90,583 Service cost 780 70 — — Interest cost 18,734 4,592 16,183 3,363 Employee contributions — 403 — 422 Plan amendments — (202 ) — — Plan curtailments (10,314 ) — — — Benefits paid (30,204 ) (3,401 ) (30,454 ) (3,310 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (34,652 ) (26,965 ) 3,738 (8,161 ) Benefit obligation at end of period $ 435,462 $ 90,583 $ 424,929 $ 82,897 Change in plan assets Plan assets at beginning of period $ 339,619 $ — $ 326,458 $ — Employer contributions 16,435 2,998 606 2,888 Employee contributions — 403 — 422 Actual return on plan assets 607 — 20,829 — Benefits paid (30,203 ) (3,401 ) (30,454 ) (3,310 ) Plan assets at fair value at end of period $ 326,458 $ — $ 317,439 $ — Accrued benefit costs and funded status of the plans $ (109,004 ) $ (90,583 ) $ (107,490 ) $ (82,897 ) Accumulated benefit obligation $ 435,462 $ 424,929 Weighted average assumptions used to determine accumulated benefit obligation and accrued benefit costs Discount rate 4.53 % 4.50 % 3.82 % 4.19 % Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs Discount rate 4.01 % 4.04 % 4.53 % 4.50 % Expected rate of return on plan assets 7.80 % — 7.80 % — Rate of compensation increase 3.25 % — — — Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss recognized in net periodic benefit cost Actuarial loss, net of tax $ 4,883 $ 361 $ 2,228 $ (5 ) Prior service credits, net of tax (383 ) 135 (8 ) 3 Total $ 4,500 $ 496 $ 2,220 $ (2 ) Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet recognized in net periodic benefit cost Actuarial loss, net of tax $ 84,866 $ (4,320 ) $ 87,981 $ (9,468 ) Prior service credits, net of tax (348 ) — (343 ) — Total $ 84,518 $ (4,320 ) $ 87,638 $ (9,468 ) Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost in the subsequent year Actuarial loss $ (3,370 ) $ — $ (3,751 ) $ — Prior service credits — 8 — 8 Total $ (3,370 ) $ 8 $ (3,751 ) $ 8
Benefits Expected to be Paid Next Five Years	The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are as follows (in thousands): Pension Other Post- 2017 $ 35,308 $ 4,111 2018 28,540 4,399 2019 28,076 4,673 2020 27,360 4,913 2021 27,319 5,133 2022 to 2026 133,822 27,483 Total $ 280,425 $ 50,712
Defined Pension Benefit Plans [Member]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs	Net periodic pension benefit costs included the following components (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Service cost $ 2,854 $ 780 $ — Interest cost 19,904 18,734 16,183 Expected return on plan assets (24,130 ) (25,926 ) (25,535 ) Amortization of unrecognized prior service credits (172 ) (43 ) — Amortization of unrecognized net loss 10,319 7,911 3,370 Curtailment (gain) loss — (564 ) — Special termination benefit recognized 48 — — Total benefit $ 8,823 $ 892 $ (5,982 )
Target and Actual Asset Allocation [Member]
Pension Plan Assets by Asset Category	The target and actual asset allocation of our pension plan assets were as follows: As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2016 Target Actual Target Actual Asset Category Equity securities 49 % 49 % 49 % 47 % Debt securities 36 % 34 % 36 % 34 % Other securities 15 % 17 % 15 % 19 % Total 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets [Member]
Pension Plan Assets by Asset Category	The fair values of our pension plan assets by asset category are as follows (in thousands): Fair Value Measurements at Fair Value Measurements at Asset Category Equity Securities U.S. Large-Cap (1) $ 87,383 $ 80,698 U.S. Small/Mid-Cap (2) 22,121 22,184 World Equity Ex-US (3) 51,720 46,999 Fixed Income Securities Short Duration Bonds (4) 91,897 90,099 High Yield Bonds (5) 13,638 14,125 Emerging Market Fixed income (Non-US) (6) 4,463 4,100 Other Securities Hedge Funds (7) 15,913 15,880 Core Property Fund (8) 39,176 43,266 Income earned but not yet received 147 159 Total $ 326,458 $ 317,510 (1) US large cap equity fund invests primarily in a portfolio of common stocks included in the S&P 500 Index, as well as other equity securities and derivative instruments whose value is derived from the performance of the S&P 500. (2) US small/mid cap equity fund invests primarily in a portfolio of common stocks included in the Russell 2500 Index. (3) World equity ex-US fund invests primarily in common stocks and other equity securities whose issuers comprise a broad range of capitalizations and are located outside of the U.S. The fund invests primarily in developed countries but may also invest in emerging markets. (4) Short duration bond fund includes the Opportunistic Income fund and the Limited Duration Bond Fund. The Opportunistic Income fund invests primarily in a diversified portfolio of investment grade and non-investment grade fixed-income securities. There are no restrictions on the maturity of any individual securities or on the fund’s average portfolio maturity, although the average portfolio duration will typically vary between zero and two years. Under normal circumstances, the Limited Duration Bond Fund will invest at least 80% of its net assets in investment-grade, U.S. dollar-denominated debt instruments. The Fund is expected to maintain a portfolio duration of three years or less. (5) High yield bond fund seeks to maximize return by investing primarily in a diversified portfolio of higher yielding, lower rated fixed income securities. The fund will invest primarily in securities rated below investment grade, including corporate bonds, convertible and preferred securities and zero coupon obligations. (6) Emerging markets debt fund seeks to maximize return investing in fixed income securities of emerging markets issuers. The fund will invest primarily in U.S. dollar denominated debt securities of government, government-related and corporate issuers in emerging market countries, as well as entities organized to restructure the outstanding debt of such issuers. (7) Hedge fund seeks to provide returns that are different from (less correlated with) investments in more traditional asset classes. The fund will pursue its investment objective by investing substantially all of its assets in various hedge funds. (8) Core property fund is a fund of funds that invests in direct commercial property funds primarily in the U.S. The fund is meant to provide current income-oriented returns, diversification, and modest inflation protection to an overall investment portfolio. Total returns are expected to be somewhere between stocks and bonds, with moderate volatility and low correlation to public markets.
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs	Net periodic other postretirement benefit costs included the following components (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Service cost $ 128 $ 70 $ — Interest cost 4,562 4,592 3,363 Amortization of unrecognized net loss — 596 (8 ) Total costs $ 4,690 $ 5,258 $ 3,355

Receivables (Tables)

Receivables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Summary of Receivables	Receivables were comprised of the following (in thousands): As of As of Service charges: Billed $ 258,034 $ 246,833 Unbilled 9,658 8,872 Other 2,261 2,075 Allowance for doubtful accounts (37,178 ) (54,744 ) Total $ 232,775 $ 203,036

Satellites and Other Property38

Satellites and Other Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Satellites and Other Property and Equipment, Net	Satellites and other property and equipment, net were comprised of the following (in thousands): As of As of Satellites and launch vehicles $ 9,810,941 $ 10,363,771 Information systems and ground segment 641,741 727,929 Buildings and other 241,273 250,369 Total cost 10,693,955 11,342,069 Less: accumulated depreciation (4,705,638 ) (5,156,227 ) Total $ 5,988,317 $ 6,185,842

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Changes in Equity Attributable to Intelsat and Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	The following tables present changes in equity attributable to the Company and equity attributable to our noncontrolling interests, which is included in the equity section of our consolidated balance sheet (in thousands): Intelsat S.A. Noncontrolling Total Shareholders’ Balance at January 1, 2015 $ (776,268 ) $ 33,701 $ (742,567 ) Net income (loss) (3,923,387 ) 3,934 (3,919,453 ) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests — (8,423 ) (8,423 ) Share-based compensation 25,921 — 25,921 Declaration of preferred stock dividend (9,919 ) — (9,919 ) Postretirement/pension liability adjustment 34,449 — 34,449 Other comprehensive income (361 ) — (361 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (4,649,565 ) $ 29,212 $ (4,620,353 ) Intelsat S.A. Noncontrolling Total Shareholders’ Balance at January 1, 2016 $ (4,649,565 ) $ 29,212 $ (4,620,353 ) Net income 990,197 3,915 994,112 Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests — (8,980 ) (8,980 ) Share-based compensation 23,089 — 23,089 Postretirement/pension liability adjustment 2,041 — 2,041 Other comprehensive income 93 — 93 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (3,634,145 ) $ 24,147 $ (3,609,998 )

Goodwill and Other Intangible40

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Carrying Amounts of Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets Not Subject to Amortization	The carrying amounts of goodwill and acquired intangible assets not subject to amortization consist of the following (in thousands): As of As of Goodwill (1) $ 2,620,627 $ 2,620,627 Orbital locations 2,387,700 2,387,700 Trade name 65,200 65,200 (1) Net of accumulated impairment losses of $4,160,200.
Schedule of Carrying Amount and Accumulated Amortization of Acquired Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization	The carrying amount and accumulated amortization of acquired intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following (in thousands): As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2016 Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Carrying Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Carrying Backlog and other $ 743,760 $ (647,534 ) $ 96,226 $ 743,760 $ (669,045 ) $ 74,715 Customer relationships 534,030 (189,926 ) 344,104 534,030 (216,907 ) 317,123 Total $ 1,277,790 $ (837,460 ) $ 440,330 $ 1,277,790 $ (885,952 ) $ 391,838
Scheduled Amortization Charges for Intangible Assets	Scheduled amortization charges for the intangible assets over the next five years are as follows (in thousands): Year Amount 2017 $ 42,254 2018 38,481 2019 34,351 2020 31,103 2021 28,635

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Carrying Values and Fair Values of Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt	The carrying values and fair values of our notes payable and long-term debt were as follows (in thousands): As of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2016 Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Intelsat Luxembourg: 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 $ 475,000 $ 355,063 $ 500,000 $ 410,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 6.75% Senior Notes (2,066 ) — (5,746 ) — 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 2,000,000 930,000 2,000,000 640,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.75% Senior Notes (19,602 ) — (16,588 ) — 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 1,000,000 450,000 1,000,000 295,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 8.125% Senior Notes (10,870 ) — (9,764 ) — Total Intelsat Luxembourg obligations 3,442,462 1,735,063 3,467,902 1,345,000 Intelsat Connect Finance: 12.5% Senior Notes due April 2022 $ — $ — $ 731,884 $ 475,725 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 12.5% Senior Notes — — (297,257 ) — Total Intelsat Connect Finance obligations — — 434,627 475,725 Intelsat Jackson: 9.5% Senior Secured Notes due September 2022 $ — $ — $ 490,000 $ 543,900 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 9.5% Senior Secured Notes — — (20,243 ) — 8.00% Senior Secured Notes due February 2024 — — 1,349,678 1,383,420 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium on 8.0% Senior Secured Notes — — (6,005 ) — 7.25% Senior Notes due October 2020 2,200,000 1,919,500 2,200,000 1,716,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium on 7.25% Senior Notes (8,248 ) — (6,756 ) — 7.25% Senior Notes due April 2019 1,500,000 1,368,750 1,500,000 1,260,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.25% Senior Notes (8,203 ) — (5,886 ) — 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2021 1,150,000 1,000,500 1,150,000 879,750 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.5% Senior Notes (8,137 ) — (6,828 ) — 6.625% Senior Notes due December 2022 1,275,000 803,250 — — Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium on 6.625% Senior Notes 20,428 — — — 5.5% Senior Notes due August 2023 2,000,000 1,560,000 2,000,000 1,340,000 Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 5.5% Senior Notes (16,719 ) — (14,900 ) — Senior Secured Credit Facilities due June 2019 3,095,000 2,944,274 3,095,000 3,013,756 Jackson Revolver — — — — Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on Senior Secured Credit Facilities and Jackson Revolver (30,204 ) — (21,682 ) — Total Intelsat Jackson obligations 11,168,917 9,596,274 11,702,378 10,136,826 Eliminations: 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 owned by Intelsat Connect Finance $ — $ — $ (402,570 ) $ (330,107 ) Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 6.75% Senior Notes — — 5,490 — 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 owned by Intelsat Connect Finance — — (979,168 ) (313,334 ) Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 7.75% Senior Notes — — 8,121 — 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 owned by Intelsat Connect Finance — — (111,663 ) (32,941 ) Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs on 8.125% Senior Notes — — 1,090 — Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and discount on 12.5% Senior Notes — — 71,877 — Total eliminations: — — (1,406,823 ) (676,382 ) Total Intelsat S.A. long-term debt $ 14,611,379 $ 11,331,337 $ 14,198,084 $ 11,281,169 Less: Current portion of long-term debt — — Total long-term debt, excluding current portion $ 14,611,379 $ 14,198,084
Schedule of Principal Repayments of Long-Term Debt	Required principal repayments of long-term debt over the next five years and thereafter as of December 31, 2016 are as follows (in thousands): Year Amount 2017 $ — 2018 97,430 2019 4,595,000 2020 2,200,000 2021 2,170,832 2022 and thereafter 5,459,899 Total principal repayments 14,523,161 Unamortized discounts, premium and prepaid issuance costs (325,077 ) Total Intelsat S.A. long-term debt $ 14,198,084

Derivative Instruments and He42

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value of Derivatives by Category	The following table sets forth the fair value of our derivatives by category (in thousands): Derivatives not designated as hedging Balance Sheets Location December 31, December 31, Undesignated interest rate swaps Other current liabilities $ 2,013 $ — Put option embedded derivative Other current liabilities — 1,496 Total derivatives $ 2,013 $ 1,496
Schedule of Effect of Derivative Instruments, Included in Interest Expense, Net in Consolidated Statements of Operations	The following table sets forth the effect of the derivative instruments, included in interest expense, net in our consolidated statements of operations (in thousands): Derivatives not designated as hedging Presentation in Statements of Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Undesignated interest rate swaps Included in interest expense, net $ 5,649 $ 3,483 $ — Put option embedded derivative Included in interest expense, net — — — Total loss on derivative financial instruments $ 5,649 $ 3,483 $ —

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Total Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes	The following table summarizes our total income (loss) before income taxes (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Domestic income (loss) before income taxes $ 199,682 $ (3,966,322 ) $ 938,156 Foreign income before income taxes 59,795 48,382 71,942 Total income (loss) before income taxes $ 259,477 $ (3,917,940 ) $ 1,010,098
Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes	The provision for (benefit from) income taxes consisted of the following (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Current income tax provision Domestic $ 2,306 $ — $ (35 ) Foreign 33,311 10,817 25,721 Total 35,617 10,817 25,686 Deferred income tax benefit: Domestic $ — $ — $ (80 ) Foreign (12,646 ) (9,304 ) (9,620 ) Total (12,646 ) (9,304 ) (9,700 ) Total income tax provision (benefit): $ 22,971 $ 1,513 $ 15,986
Income Tax Provision (Benefit)	The income tax provision (benefit) was different from the amount computed using the Luxembourg statutory income tax rate of 29.22% for the reasons set forth in the following table (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Expected tax provision (benefit) at Luxembourg statutory income tax rate $ 75,819 $ (1,144,822 ) $ 295,150 Foreign income tax differential 40,099 42,339 51,787 Nontaxable interest income (53,361 ) (67,651 ) — Domestic financing activities 6,038 40,169 (8,279 ) Change in tax rate — — 416,156 Tax deductible impairment charges in Luxembourg subsidiaries — (854,393 ) (1,280,759 ) Goodwill impairment — 599,974 — Changes in unrecognized tax benefits 1,229 (15,465 ) (1,629 ) Changes in valuation allowance (24,147 ) 1,463,774 554,479 Tax effect of 2011 Intercompany Sale (6,740 ) (6,112 ) (6,701 ) Foreign tax credits (2,147 ) (2,171 ) (5,480 ) Research and development tax credits (5,564 ) (2,103 ) (3,275 ) Other (8,255 ) (52,026 ) 4,537 Total income tax provision (benefit) $ 22,971 $ 1,513 $ 15,986
Net Deferred Tax Balances	The following table details the composition of the net deferred tax balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 (in thousands): As of As of Long-term deferred taxes, net $ (160,802 ) $ (168,445 ) Other assets 12,203 15,181 Net deferred taxes $ (148,599 ) $ (153,264 )
Components of Net Deferred Tax Liability	The components of the net deferred tax liability were as follows (in thousands): As of As of Deferred tax assets: Accruals and advances $ 26,672 $ 31,015 Amortizable intangible assets 739,058 17,549 Performance incentives 17,596 14,599 Customer deposits 17,771 20,664 Bad debt reserve 3,607 8,659 Accrued retirement benefits 72,520 67,988 Disallowed interest expense carryforward 111,038 109,575 Net operating loss carryforward 2,232,359 3,937,736 Tax credits 36,656 17,562 Other 14,646 16,491 Total deferred tax assets 3,271,923 4,241,848 Deferred tax liabilities: Satellites and other property and equipment (172,574 ) (186,390 ) Amortizable intangible assets (30,788 ) (379,653 ) Non-amortizable intangible assets (116,526 ) (109,844 ) Tax basis differences in investments and affiliates (218,583 ) (231,210 ) Other (21,040 ) (72,524 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (559,511 ) (979,621 ) Valuation allowance (2,861,011 ) (3,415,491 ) Total net deferred tax liabilities $ (148,599 ) $ (153,264 )
Summary of Activity Related to Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The following table summarizes the activity related to our unrecognized tax benefits (in thousands): 2015 2016 Balance at January 1 $ 67,135 $ 40,248 Increases related to current year tax positions 3,237 2,301 Increases related to prior year tax positions 962 1,530 Decreases related to prior year tax positions (1,068 ) (878 ) Expiration of statute of limitations for the assessment of taxes (30,018 ) (7,034 ) Balance at December 31 $ 40,248 $ 36,167

Contractual Commitments (Tables

Contractual Commitments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Additional Expenditures and Expected Year of Payment	The additional expenditures as of December 31, 2016 and the expected year of payment are as follows (in thousands): Satellite Satellite Horizons-3 Obligations (1) Operating Sublease Rental Customer and Total 2017 $ 482,546 $ 44,878 $ 21,700 $ 14,304 $ (410 ) $ 118,672 $ 681,690 2018 234,238 34,147 36,400 13,795 (407 ) 47,327 365,500 2019 121,925 32,224 4,600 13,597 (355 ) 41,157 213,148 2020 32,269 32,150 11,700 13,128 (263 ) 17,336 106,320 2021 30,682 31,354 13,300 12,954 (48 ) 870 89,112 2022 and thereafter 47,814 187,459 74,700 106,357 (184 ) — 416,146 Total contractual commitments $ 949,474 $ 362,212 $ 162,400 $ 174,135 $ (1,667 ) $ 225,362 $ 1,871,916 (1) See Note 10(b)—Investments—Horizons-3 Satellite LLC.

Business and Geographic Segme45

Business and Geographic Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Geographic Distribution of Revenue	The geographic distribution of our revenue based upon billing region of the customer was as follows: Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended North America 45 % 47 % 49 % Europe 17 % 15 % 14 % Latin America and Caribbean 16 % 15 % 15 % Africa and Middle East 14 % 14 % 13 % Asia-Pacific 8 % 9 % 9 %
Schedule of Off-Network and On-Network Revenues	Our revenues were derived from the following services, with Off-Network and Other Revenues shown separately from On-Network Revenues (in thousands, except percentages): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended On-Network Revenues Transponder services $ 1,779,458 72 % $ 1,705,568 73 % $ 1,561,108 71 % Managed services 415,269 17 % 405,330 17 % 414,758 19 % Channel 58,669 2 % 38,872 2 % 9,134 0 % Total on-network revenues 2,253,396 91 % 2,149,770 91 % 1,985,000 91 % Off-Network and Other Revenues Transponder, MSS and other off-network services 171,637 7 % 160,063 7 % 157,212 7 % Satellite-related services 47,353 2 % 42,688 2 % 45,835 2 % Total off-network and other revenues 218,990 9 % 202,751 9 % 203,047 9 % Total $ 2,472,386 100 % $ 2,352,521 100 % $ 2,188,047 100 %

Quarterly Results of Operatio46

Quarterly Results of Operations (in thousands, unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results of Operations	Quarter Ended 2015 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 Revenue (1) $ 602,306 $ 598,109 $ 580,847 $ 571,259 Income (loss) from operations (1) 292,762 290,842 284,999 (3,897,122 ) Net income (loss) 55,665 61,236 78,967 (4,115,321 ) (3) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. 54,717 60,220 77,982 (4,116,306 ) (3) Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders 54,717 50,301 77,982 (4,116,306 ) (3) Net income (loss) per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.: Basic (2) $ 0.51 $ 0.47 $ 0.73 $ (38.29 ) Diluted (2) 0.47 0.47 0.66 (38.29 ) Quarter Ended 2016 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 Revenue (1) $ 552,643 $ 541,983 $ 542,727 $ 550,694 Income from operations (1) 239,173 227,324 220,410 233,705 Net income 16,292 117,412 (4) 196,605 (4) 663,803 (4) Net income attributable to Intelsat S.A. 15,326 116,429 (4) 195,622 (4) 662,820 (4) Net income attributable to common shareholders 15,326 116,429 (4) 195,622 (4) 662,820 (4) Net income per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.: Basic (2) $ 0.14 $ 1.02 $ 1.66 $ 5.62 Diluted (2) 0.13 0.98 1.65 5.56 (1) Our quarterly revenue and operating income (loss) are generally not impacted by seasonality, as customer contracts for satellite utilization are generally long-term. Revenue declines shown above were primarily due to declines from our network services customers, mainly due to reduced volumes resulting from non-renewals and point-to-point connectivity and certain cellular backhaul services which are eroding to fiber alternatives, together with non-renewals and renewal pricing at lower rates for enterprise network services. Additional declines in Channel services related to the continued migration of international point-to-point satellite traffic to fiber optic cable, a trend which we expect will continue. (2) Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly basic and diluted per share information may not equal annual basic and diluted earnings per share. (3) Includes a $4.2 billion impairment of goodwill and other intangibles. (4) The quarter ended June 30, 2016 includes a $131.4 million gain on early extinguishment of debt related to the May 2016 Intelsat Jackson Notes Repurchase. The quarter ended September 30, 2016 includes a $219.6 million gain on early extinguishment of debt related to the September 2016 Intelsat Jackson Debt Exchange and Consent Solicitation. The quarter ended December 31, 2016 includes a $679.1 million gain on early extinguishment of debt related to the December 2016 ICF Exchange Offers.

Supplemental Consolidating Fi47

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet	INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2016 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation Consolidated ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 552 $ 59,752 $ 29,985 $ 495,225 $ 414,339 $ 80,510 $ (414,339 ) $ 666,024 Receivables, net of allowance 2 — — 151,345 151,322 51,689 (151,322 ) 203,036 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 882 3 — 48,320 48,263 6,703 (48,263 ) 55,908 Intercompany receivables — — 8,867 557,959 — 302,118 (868,944 ) — Total current assets $ 1,436 $ 59,755 $ 38,852 $ 1,252,849 $ 613,924 $ 441,020 $ (1,482,868 ) $ 924,968 Satellites and other property and equipment, net — — — 6,096,459 6,096,459 89,383 (6,096,459 ) 6,185,842 Goodwill — — — 2,620,627 2,620,627 — (2,620,627 ) 2,620,627 Non-amortizable intangible assets — — — 2,452,900 2,452,900 — (2,452,900 ) 2,452,900 Amortizable intangible assets, net — — — 391,838 391,838 — (391,838 ) 391,838 Investment in affiliates (3,086,095 ) (23,113 ) (651,909 ) 184,804 184,804 — 3,391,509 — Other assets 169 — 681,910 303,623 303,623 62,123 (985,614 ) 365,834 Total assets $ (3,084,490 ) $ 36,642 $ 68,853 $ 13,303,100 $ 12,664,175 $ 592,526 $ (10,638,797 ) $ 12,942,009 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 23,153 $ — $ 10,830 $ 221,564 $ 218,897 $ 27,351 $ (218,897 ) $ 282,898 Accrued interest payable — 13,158 2,287 189,395 3,146 — (3,146 ) 204,840 Deferred satellite performance incentives — — — 23,455 23,455 — (23,455 ) 23,455 Other current liabilities — — — 219,389 219,389 3,081 (219,389 ) 222,470 Intercompany payables 502,355 366,589 — — 2,183,616 — (3,052,560 ) — Total current liabilities 525,508 379,747 13,117 653,803 2,648,503 30,432 (3,517,447 ) 733,663 Long-term debt, net of current portion — 3,467,902 434,627 11,702,378 — — (1,406,823 ) 14,198,084 Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion — — — 210,706 210,706 — (210,706 ) 210,706 Deferred revenue, net of current portion — — — 906,521 906,521 223 (906,521 ) 906,744 Deferred income taxes — — — 156,081 156,081 12,444 (156,161 ) 168,445 Accrued retirement benefits — — — 186,086 186,086 198 (186,086 ) 186,284 Other long-term liabilities — — 1,554 139,434 139,434 7,093 (139,434 ) 148,081 Shareholders’ equity (deficit): Common shares 1,180 7,202 — 200 5,558,066 24 (5,565,492 ) 1,180 Other shareholders’ equity (deficit) (3,611,178 ) (3,818,209 ) (380,445 ) (652,109 ) 2,858,778 542,112 1,449,873 (3,611,178 ) Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ (3,084,490 ) $ 36,642 $ 68,853 $ 13,303,100 $ 12,664,175 $ 592,526 $ (10,638,797 ) $ 12,942,009 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Consolidation and Consolidated ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 16,941 $ 760 $ 109,959 $ 89,641 $ 43,881 $ (89,641 ) $ 171,541 Receivables, net of allowance — — 173,869 173,638 58,906 (173,638 ) 232,775 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 919 — 28,633 28,593 6,680 (29,041 ) 35,784 Intercompany receivables — 116,396 49,539 — 323,173 (489,108 ) — Total current assets 17,860 117,156 362,000 291,872 432,640 (781,428 ) 440,100 Satellites and other property and equipment, net — — 5,897,103 5,897,103 91,214 (5,897,103 ) 5,988,317 Goodwill — — 2,620,627 2,620,627 — (2,620,627 ) 2,620,627 Non-amortizable intangible assets — — 2,452,900 2,452,900 — (2,452,900 ) 2,452,900 Amortizable intangible assets, net — — 440,330 440,330 — (440,330 ) 440,330 Investment in affiliates (4,120,570 ) (769,452 ) 139,983 139,983 — 4,610,056 — Other assets 87 — 278,771 278,771 32,458 (278,771 ) 311,316 Total assets $ (4,102,623 ) $ (652,296 ) $ 12,191,714 $ 12,121,586 $ 556,312 $ (7,861,103 ) $ 12,253,590 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 28,622 $ 10 $ 154,247 $ 154,861 $ 29,053 $ (155,309 ) $ 211,484 Accrued interest payable — 22,360 139,133 1,964 — (1,964 ) 161,493 Deferred satellite performance incentives — — 19,411 19,411 — (19,411 ) 19,411 Other current liabilities — — 168,261 166,248 3,793 (166,248 ) 172,054 Intercompany payables 489,108 — — 2,038,908 — (2,528,016 ) — Total current liabilities 517,730 22,370 481,052 2,381,392 32,846 (2,870,948 ) 564,442 Long-term debt, net of current portion — 3,442,462 11,168,917 — — — 14,611,379 Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion — — 162,177 162,177 — (162,177 ) 162,177 Deferred revenue, net of current portion — — 1,010,019 1,010,019 223 (1,010,019 ) 1,010,242 Deferred income taxes — — 150,283 150,283 10,519 (150,283 ) 160,802 Accrued retirement benefits — — 195,170 195,170 215 (195,170 ) 195,385 Other long-term liabilities — — 161,420 161,420 8,096 (161,420 ) 169,516 Shareholders’ equity (deficit): Common shares 1,076 7,202 3,114,981 5,558,066 24 (8,680,273 ) 1,076 Preferred shares 35 — — — — — 35 Other shareholders’ equity (deficit) (4,621,464 ) (4,124,330 ) (4,252,305 ) 2,503,059 504,389 5,369,187 (4,621,464 ) Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ (4,102,623 ) $ (652,296 ) $ 12,191,714 $ 12,121,586 $ 556,312 $ (7,861,103 ) $ 12,253,590 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding)
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations	INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. and Intelsat Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Subsidiary Non- Guarantor Consolidation Consolidated Revenue $ 2,952 $ — $ — $ 1,999,114 $ 1,999,129 $ 562,372 $ (2,375,520 ) $ 2,188,047 Operating expenses: Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) — — — 264,587 264,587 452,899 (640,926 ) 341,147 Selling, general and administrative 7,884 168 61 140,952 137,488 79,083 (134,239 ) 231,397 Depreciation and amortization — — — 676,542 676,542 18,349 (676,542 ) 694,891 Total operating expenses 7,884 168 61 1,082,081 1,078,617 550,331 (1,451,707 ) 1,267,435 Income (loss) from operations (4,932 ) (168 ) (61 ) 917,033 920,512 12,041 (923,813 ) 920,612 Interest expense (income), net 13,596 272,791 8 661,671 183,931 (9,505 ) (183,991 ) 938,501 Gain on early extinguishment of debt — — — 350,962 — — 679,130 1,030,092 Subsidiary income 1,008,614 605,685 597,995 9,869 9,869 — (2,232,032 ) — Other income (expense), net (4 ) — — (5,909 ) 1,812 3,808 (1,812 ) (2,105 ) Income before income taxes 990,082 332,726 597,926 610,284 748,262 25,354 (2,294,536 ) 1,010,098 Provision for (benefit from) income taxes (115 ) — — 12,290 12,290 3,811 (12,290 ) 15,986 Net income 990,197 332,726 597,926 597,994 735,972 21,543 (2,282,246 ) 994,112 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest — — — — — (3,915 ) — (3,915 ) Net income attributable to Intelsat S.A. $ 990,197 $ 332,726 $ 597,926 $ 597,994 $ 735,972 $ 17,628 $ (2,282,246 ) $ 990,197 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Consolidation Consolidated Revenue $ — $ — $ 2,160,235 $ 2,160,251 $ 554,831 $ (2,522,796 ) $ 2,352,521 Operating expenses: Direct costs of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) — — 241,603 241,603 449,274 (603,979 ) 328,501 Selling, general and administrative 7,912 193 126,331 125,494 65,143 (125,661 ) 199,412 Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles — — 4,165,400 4,165,400 — (4,165,400 ) 4,165,400 Depreciation and amortization — — 654,784 654,784 32,945 (654,784 ) 687,729 Total operating expenses 7,912 193 5,188,118 5,187,281 547,362 (5,549,824 ) 5,381,042 Income (loss) from operations (7,912 ) (193 ) (3,027,883 ) (3,027,030 ) 7,469 3,027,028 (3,028,521 ) Interest expense (income), net 10,723 274,451 613,162 36,059 (8,057 ) (36,059 ) 890,279 Gain on early extinguishment of debt — 7,061 — — — — 7,061 Subsidiary income (loss) (3,904,747 ) (3,614,952 ) 11,983 11,983 — 7,495,733 — Other income (expense), net — — 4,367 (5,136 ) (10,568 ) 5,136 (6,201 ) Income (loss) before income taxes (3,923,382 ) (3,882,535 ) (3,624,695 ) (3,056,242 ) 4,958 10,563,956 (3,917,940 ) Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 3 — (1,871 ) (1,885 ) 3,381 1,885 1,513 Net income (loss) (3,923,385 ) (3,882,535 ) (3,622,824 ) (3,054,357 ) 1,577 10,562,071 (3,919,453 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest — — — — (3,934 ) — (3,934 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. (3,923,385 ) (3,882,535 ) (3,622,824 ) (3,054,357 ) (2,357 ) 10,562,071 (3,923,387 ) Cumulative preferred dividends (9,919 ) — — — — — (9,919 ) Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders $ (3,933,304 ) $ (3,882,535 ) $ (3,622,824 ) $ (3,054,357 ) $ (2,357 ) $ 10,562,071 $ (3,933,306 ) (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Consolidation Consolidated Revenue $ — $ — $ 2,281,331 $ 2,281,348 $ 592,317 $ (2,682,610 ) $ 2,472,386 Operating expenses: Direct costs of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) — — 257,999 257,999 491,460 (659,110 ) 348,348 Selling, general and administrative 7,547 139 132,379 131,874 57,493 (132,025 ) 197,407 Depreciation and amortization — — 644,597 644,597 34,754 (644,597 ) 679,351 Total operating expenses 7,547 139 1,034,975 1,034,470 583,707 (1,435,732 ) 1,225,106 Income (loss) from operations (7,547 ) (139 ) 1,246,356 1,246,878 8,610 (1,246,878 ) 1,247,280 Interest expense, net 10,153 274,253 660,763 6,605 (382 ) (6,605 ) 944,787 Loss on early extinguishment of debt — — (40,423 ) — — — (40,423 ) Subsidiary income 250,281 545,402 14,729 14,729 — (825,141 ) — Other income (expense), net 2 — 2,864 2,770 (5,461 ) (2,768 ) (2,593 ) Income before income taxes 232,583 271,010 562,763 1,257,772 3,531 (2,068,182 ) 259,477 Provision for income taxes 53 — 17,361 17,268 5,557 (17,268 ) 22,971 Net income (loss) 232,530 271,010 545,402 1,240,504 (2,026 ) (2,050,914 ) 236,506 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest — — — — (3,974 ) — (3,974 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A. 232,530 271,010 545,402 1,240,504 (6,000 ) (2,050,914 ) 232,532 Cumulative preferred dividends (9,917 ) — — — — — (9,917 ) Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders $ 222,613 $ 271,010 $ 545,402 $ 1,240,504 $ (6,000 ) $ (2,050,914 ) $ 222,615 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding)
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows	INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Connect Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation Consolidated Cash flows from operating activities: $ (10,234 ) $ 89,342 $ 4,764 $ 917,923 $ 1,506,746 $ (314,986 ) $ (1,510,049 ) $ 683,506 Cash flows from investing activities: Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest) — — — (699,213 ) (699,213 ) (15,357 ) 699,213 (714,570 ) Repayment from intercompany loans 4,895 — — — — 359,237 (364,132 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (6,087 ) (300,050 ) — (30,655 ) (10,955 ) — 347,747 — Dividend from affiliates — 269,700 — 8,980 8,980 — (287,660 ) — Purchase of cost method investment — — — (4,000 ) (4,000 ) — 4,000 (4,000 ) Capital contributions to unconsolidated affiliates — — — — — (10,340 ) — (10,340 ) Other investing activities — — — — — (1,679 ) — (1,679 ) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (1,192 ) (30,350 ) — (724,888 ) (705,188 ) 331,861 399,168 (730,589 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — — — 1,250,000 — — — 1,250,000 Repayments of long-term debt — — — (328,944 ) — — — (328,944 ) Disbursements for intercompany loans — — — (364,132 ) (12,438 ) — 376,570 — Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt — — — (32 ) — — — (32 ) Debt issuance costs — — (15,562 ) (26,133 ) — — 3,302 (38,393 ) Payments on tender, debt exchange and consent transaction — — (259,267 ) (34,009 ) — — — (293,276 ) Dividends paid to preferred shareholders (4,959 ) — — — — — — (4,959 ) Other payments for satellites — — — (18,333 ) (18,333 ) — 18,333 (18,333 ) Capital contribution from parent — — 300,050 — 96,658 36,742 (433,450 ) — Dividends to shareholders — — — (269,700 ) (524,327 ) (8,980 ) 803,007 — Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives — — — (17,429 ) (17,429 ) — 17,429 (17,429 ) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — — (8,980 ) — (8,980 ) Other financing activities — — — 1,942 — — — 1,942 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (4,959 ) — 25,221 193,230 (475,869 ) 18,782 785,191 541,596 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (4 ) — — (999 ) (991 ) 972 992 (30 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents (16,389 ) 58,992 29,985 385,266 324,698 36,629 (324,698 ) 494,483 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 16,941 760 — 109,959 89,641 43,881 (89,641 ) 171,541 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 552 $ 59,752 $ 29,985 $ 495,225 $ 414,339 $ 80,510 $ (414,339 ) $ 666,024 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation and Consolidated Cash flows from operating activities: $ 724 $ (251,879 ) $ 1,138,747 $ 1,629,412 $ 22,438 $ (1,629,411 ) $ 910,031 Cash flows from investing activities: Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest) — — (720,273 ) (720,273 ) (4,089 ) 720,273 (724,362 ) Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans 9,538 — 2,064 2,064 (346,799 ) 333,133 — Investment in subsidiaries (7,355 ) (610,000 ) (198 ) (40,444 ) — 657,997 — Dividend from affiliates 19,000 898,400 28,423 28,423 — (974,246 ) — Purchase of cost method investment — — (25,000 ) (25,000 ) — 25,000 (25,000 ) Other investing activities — — 432 432 (424 ) (432 ) 8 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 21,183 288,400 (714,552 ) (754,798 ) (351,312 ) 761,725 (749,354 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Repayments of long-term debt — (17,829 ) (479,000 ) — — — (496,829 ) Proceeds from drawdown of long-term debt — — 430,000 — — — 430,000 Proceeds from (repayment of) intercompany borrowing (1,430 ) — 337,261 — (634 ) (335,197 ) — Dividends paid to preferred shareholders (9,919 ) — — — — — (9,919 ) Capital contribution from parent — — 250,000 86,316 367,553 (703,869 ) — Dividends to shareholders — (19,000 ) (898,400 ) (916,697 ) (28,423 ) 1,862,520 — Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives — — (18,405 ) (18,405 ) (1,163 ) 18,405 (19,568 ) Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — (8,423 ) — (8,423 ) Other financing activities 154 — 1,600 1,600 — (1,601 ) 1,753 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (11,195 ) (36,829 ) (376,944 ) (847,186 ) 328,910 840,258 (102,986 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents — — (925 ) (931 ) (8,372 ) 931 (9,297 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents 10,712 (308 ) 46,326 26,497 (8,336 ) (26,497 ) 48,394 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 6,229 1,068 63,633 63,144 52,217 (63,144 ) 123,147 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 16,941 $ 760 $ 109,959 $ 89,641 $ 43,881 $ (89,641 ) $ 171,541 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding) INTELSAT S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 (in thousands) Intelsat S.A. Intelsat Intelsat Jackson Non- Guarantor Consolidation Eliminations Consolidated Cash flows from operating activities: $ (1,366 ) $ (270,171 ) $ 1,253,342 $ 1,887,340 $ 64,363 $ (1,887,338 ) $ 1,046,170 Cash flows from investing activities: Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest) — — (639,603 ) (639,603 ) (5,821 ) 639,603 (645,424 ) Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans 9,214 — 3,873 3,873 — (16,960 ) — Investment in subsidiaries (3,790 ) — (194 ) (194 ) — 4,178 — Dividend from affiliates 8,300 279,400 33,943 33,943 — (355,586 ) — Other investing activities — — 174 174 — (174 ) 174 Net cash provided by (used in)investing activities 13,724 279,400 (601,807 ) (601,807 ) (5,821 ) 271,061 (645,250 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Repayments of long-term debt — — (586,000 ) — (24,418 ) — (610,418 ) Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt — — (21,250 ) — — — (21,250 ) Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — — 135,000 — — — 135,000 Proceeds from (repayment of) intercompany borrowing (4,233 ) — (9,214 ) — 360 13,087 — Dividends paid to preferred shareholders (9,919 ) — — — — — (9,919 ) Capital contribution from parent — — 103,698 3,984 (107,682 ) — Dividends to shareholders — (8,300 ) (279,400 ) (1,473,781 ) (33,943 ) 1,795,424 — Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives — — (18,705 ) (18,705 ) (1,069 ) 18,705 (19,774 ) Capital contribution from noncontrolling interest — — — — 12,209 — 12,209 Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest — — — — (8,744 ) — (8,744 ) Other financing activities 4,231 — (338 ) (338 ) — 338 3,893 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (9,921 ) (8,300 ) (779,907 ) (1,389,126 ) (51,621 ) 1,719,872 (519,003 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents — — (1,085 ) (1,063 ) (5,473 ) 1,061 (6,560 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents 2,437 929 (129,457 ) (104,656 ) 1,448 104,656 (124,643 ) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 3,792 139 193,090 167,800 50,769 (167,800 ) 247,790 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 6,229 $ 1,068 $ 63,633 $ 63,144 $ 52,217 $ (63,144 ) $ 123,147 (Certain totals may not add due to the effects of rounding)

Background of Company - Additio

Background of Company - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Billions	Feb. 28, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Combination Agreement [Member] | OneWeb [Member]
Background Of Company [Line Items]
Agreement date		Feb. 28, 2017
Share Purchase Agreement [Member] | SoftBank Group Corp. [Member]
Background Of Company [Line Items]
Agreement date		Feb. 28, 2017
Subsequent Event [Member] | Share Purchase Agreement [Member] | SoftBank Group Corp. [Member]
Background Of Company [Line Items]
Aggregate cash consideration	$ 1.7
Subsequent Event [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | Combination Agreement [Member] | OneWeb [Member]
Background Of Company [Line Items]
Percentage of common shares expected to hold by Intelsat shareholders	19.00%

Significant Accounting Polici49

Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 01, 2018
Significant Of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Derivative instrument maturity date		Jan. 31, 2016
Reclassification from debt financing and restricted cash received and restricted cash to proceeds from issuance of long-term debt and repayments of long-term debt		$ 480,200,000
12.5% Senior Notes due April 2022 [Member]
Significant Of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2022-04
Senior Notes, Interest rate	12.50%	12.50%
Minimum [Member]
Significant Of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership interest percentage	20.00%	20.00%
Minimum [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Significant Of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Expected benefit to retained earnings based on adoption of ASU 2016-16			$ 4,000,000
Maximum [Member]
Significant Of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership interest percentage	50.00%	50.00%
Maximum [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Significant Of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Expected benefit to retained earnings based on adoption of ASU 2016-16			$ 10,000,000

Significant Accounting Polici50

Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Useful Lives of Satellites and Other Property and Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Minimum [Member] | Buildings and Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	10 years
Minimum [Member] | Satellites and Related Costs [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	11 years
Minimum [Member] | Ground Segment Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	4 years
Minimum [Member] | Furniture and Fixtures and Computer Hardware [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	4 years
Minimum [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	2 years
Maximum [Member] | Buildings and Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	40 years
Maximum [Member] | Satellites and Related Costs [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	17 years
Maximum [Member] | Ground Segment Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	15 years
Maximum [Member] | Furniture and Fixtures and Computer Hardware [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	12 years
Maximum [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of assets	12 years

Share Capital - Additional Info

Share Capital - Additional Information (Detail) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	May 02, 2016USD ($)	May 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015$ / shares
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Authorized share capital | $			$ 10
Common Shares , authorized			1,000,000,000
Common shares, par value | $ / shares			$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Shares , issued			118,000,000
Common Shares, outstanding			118,000,000
Common Stock [Member]
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Stock conversion value | $	$ 9.6
Preferred Stock [Member]
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Preferred stock conversion to common ratio		2.7778
Number of trading days, conversion price of common share		40 days

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - A

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	May 02, 2016
Net Income Loss Per Common Share [Line Items]
Dividend declared		$ 9,919
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	6,200,000	5,100,000	1,400,000
Dilutive securities		0
Preferred Stock [Member]
Net Income Loss Per Common Share [Line Items]
Dividend declared		$ 9,919	$ 9,917
Dividend declared, per share price				$ 0.71875
Dividend declared, payment date	May 2, 2016
Dividend declared, record date	Apr. 15, 2016
Preferred Stock [Member] | Weighted Average [Member]
Net Income Loss Per Common Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount		9,600,000

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - C

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands, shares in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Numerator:
Net income (loss)	$ 663,803	$ 196,605	$ 117,412	$ 16,292	$ (4,115,321)	$ 78,967	$ 61,236	$ 55,665	$ 994,112	$ (3,919,453)	$ 236,506
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest									(3,915)	(3,934)	(3,974)
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A.	662,820	195,622	116,429	15,326	(4,116,306)	77,982	60,220	54,717	990,197	(3,923,387)	232,532
Less: Preferred Shares dividends declared										(9,919)	(9,917)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders	662,820	195,622	116,429	15,326	(4,116,306)	77,982	50,301	54,717	990,197	(3,933,306)	222,615
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders	$ 662,820	$ 195,622	$ 116,429	$ 15,326	$ (4,116,306)	$ 77,982	$ 50,301	$ 54,717	990,197	(3,933,306)	222,615
Dilutive effect of Preferred shares											9,917
Numerator for Diluted EPS									$ 990,197	$ (3,933,306)	$ 232,532
Denominator:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in millions)									114.5	107.2	106.5
Weighted average dilutive shares outstanding
Preferred shares (in millions)									3.2		9.6
Employee compensation related shares including options and restricted stock units (in millions)									0.8		0.6
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in millions)									118.5	107.2	116.7
Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A.	$ 5.62	$ 1.66	$ 1.02	$ 0.14	$ (38.29)	$ 0.73	$ 0.47	$ 0.51	$ 8.65	$ (36.68)	$ 2.09
Diluted net income (loss) per common share attributable to Intelsat S.A.	$ 5.56	$ 1.65	$ 0.98	$ 0.13	$ (38.29)	$ 0.66	$ 0.47	$ 0.47	$ 8.36	$ (36.68)	$ 1.99

Share-Based and Other Compens54

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 16, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense		$ 23,200,000	$ 25,800,000	$ 22,500,000
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense		$ 2,600,000	800,000	3,000,000
Share based compensation, vesting period		1 month
Granted		1,500,000
Weighted average fair value per share		$ 2.25
Risk-free interest rate, minimum		1.60%
Risk-free interest rate, maximum		1.90%
Dividend yields		0.00%
Expected volatility		60.00%
Options exercised intrinsic value		$ 0	300,000	2,600,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards, period of recognition		1 year 2 months 12 days
Cash received for exercise of stock options		$ 0	200,000	$ 1,000,000
Option exercise price		$ 3.70
Stock Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation, expiration period		10 years
Share based compensation, expiration period, service period		2 years
Expected life of options		6 years
Stock Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation, expiration period		15 years
Share based compensation, expiration period, service period		5 years
Expected life of options		7 years
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options		$ 1,600,000
Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense			$ 0
Granted		0	0	0
Cash received for exercise of stock options				$ 3,200,000
Options exercised		0	0
Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation, expiration period		10 years
Time Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense		$ 17,900,000	$ 22,800,000	$ 13,000,000
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards, period of recognition		1 year 4 months 24 days
Weighted average grant date fair value of stock awards		$ 1.67	$ 11.64	$ 17.45
Total intrinsic value of vested stock awards		$ 1,700,000	$ 8,000,000	$ 8,600,000
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock awards		$ 14,000,000
Time Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation, vesting period		1 year
Time Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation, vesting period		3 years
Performance Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense		$ 1,700,000	$ 2,200,000	$ 2,400,000
Share based compensation, vesting period		3 years
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards, period of recognition		1 year 7 months 6 days
Weighted average grant date fair value of stock awards		$ 0.94	$ 8.97	$ 21.48
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock awards		$ 1,400,000
2014 Options Modification [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense				$ 4,700,000
Dividend yields	0.00%
Expected volatility	45.00%
Expected life of options	4 years 1 month 6 days
Number of stock options, granted				1,900,000
Incremental fair value of option modifications				$ 2.52
Share based compensation, expiration period				5 years
Option modification, description		During the year ended December 31, 2014, 1.9 million stock options, including 1.6 million anti-dilution options, were amended to (a) extend the expiration date by five years; and (b) extend the duration of exercisability from one year to three years after ceasing to be an employee of the company. We estimated an additional expense of $2.52 per option resulting from the amendment, being the difference between the fair value of the amended option and the fair value of the original award before amendment. The fair value was measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model
Risk-free interest rate	1.30%
2014 Options Modification [Member] | Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense				$ 4,100,000
Options exercised intrinsic value				$ 600,000
Number of stock options, granted				1,600,000
Pre-2014 Amendment Option Modification [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yields	0.00%
Expected volatility	45.00%
Expected life of options	1 year 7 months 6 days
Risk-free interest rate	0.30%
Pre-2014 Amendment Option Modification [Member] | Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yields	0.00%
Expected volatility	45.00%
Expected life of options	1 year 7 months 6 days
Risk-free interest rate	0.30%
2016 Options Modification [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock options, granted		1,200,000
Option modification, description		During the year ended December 31, 2016, we amended 1.2 million stock options under the 2008 Equity Plan (including 0.7 million of anti-dilution options), and 0.4 million stock options under the 2013 Equity Plan in order to modify the exercise prices to $4.16 for the anti-dilution options and to $3.77 for the remainder. As a result of the change, we estimated the difference between fair value of the amended options and the fair value of the original awards before settlement. The fair value was measured using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
2016 Options Modification [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense		$ 2,000,000
Dividend yields		0.00%
Number of stock options, granted		400,000
Option exercise price		$ 3.77
2016 Options Modification [Member] | Stock Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility		50.00%
Expected life of options		1 year
Risk-free interest rate		0.80%
2016 Options Modification [Member] | Stock Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility		60.00%
Expected life of options		4 years
Risk-free interest rate		1.50%
2016 Options Modification [Member] | Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense		$ 1,000,000
Number of stock options, granted		700,000
Option exercise price		$ 4.16
2008 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards granted during period		0
2013 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Aggregate number of shares available for future issuance		10,600,000
Increase in aggregate number of shares authorized under plan					20,000,000

Share-Based and Other Compens55

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Stock Option Activity (Detail) - Stock Options [Member] $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Number of Stock Options
Outstanding, beginning of year | shares	1,163
Granted | shares	1,500
Modified-amended options | shares	923
Modified-original options | shares	(923)
Forfeited | shares	(80)
Expired | shares	(292)
Outstanding, end of year | shares	2,291
Exercisable at December 31, 2016 | shares	1,473
Weighted Average Exercise price
Outstanding, beginning of year | $ / shares	$ 20.42
Granted | $ / shares	3.70
Modified - amended options | $ / shares	3.77
Modified - original options | $ / shares	22.80
Forfeited | $ / shares	3.77
Expired | $ / shares	9.22
Outstanding, end of year | $ / shares	3.82
Exercisable at December 31, 2016 | $ / shares	$ 3.91
Weighted Average remaining contractual term
Outstanding, end of year	7 years 7 months 6 days
Exercisable at December 31, 2016	6 years 9 months 18 days
Aggregate intrinsic value
Outstanding, end of year | $	$ 0
Exercisable at December 31, 2016 | $	$ 0

Share-Based and Other Compens56

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Stock Option Activity (Parenthetical) (Detail) - Stock Options [Member] shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock options modified amended options	923
Weighted Average Exercise price modified original options | $ / shares	$ 3.77
2008 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock options modified amended options	500
2013 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock options modified amended options	400

Share-Based and Other Compens57

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Anti-Dilution Option Activity (Detail) - Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member] $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Number of Stock Options
Outstanding, beginning of year | shares	2,016
Modified-amended options | shares	700
Modified-original options | shares	(700)
Expired | shares	(406)
Outstanding, end of year | shares	1,610
Exercisable, end of year | shares	1,610
Weighted Average Exercise price
Outstanding, beginning of year | $ / shares	$ 18
Modified-amended options | $ / shares	4.16
Modified-original options | $ / shares	18
Expired | $ / shares	18
Outstanding, end of year | $ / shares	11.98
Exercisable at December 31, 2016 | $ / shares	$ 11.98
Weighted Average remaining contractual term
Outstanding, end of year	6 years 1 month 6 days
Exercisable at December 31, 2016	6 years 1 month 6 days
Aggregate intrinsic value
Outstanding, end of year | $	$ 0
Exercisable at December 31, 2016 | $	$ 0

Share-Based and Other Compens58

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Anti-Dilution Option Activity (Parenthetical) (Detail) - Anti-Dilution Option Grants [Member] shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock options modified amended options | shares	700
Weighted Average Exercise price modified original options | $ / shares	$ 18
2008 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock options modified amended options | shares	700
Weighted Average Exercise price modified original options | $ / shares	$ 4.16

Share-Based and Other Compens59

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Time Based Restricted Stock Units Activity (Detail) - Time Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Number of units
Outstanding, beginning of year	2,880
Granted	1,701
Vested	(814)
Forfeited	(173)
Outstanding, end of year	3,594	2,880
Weighted Average grant date fair value
Outstanding, beginning of year	$ 16.13
Granted	1.67	$ 11.64	$ 17.45
Vested	15.70
Forfeited	14.42
Outstanding, end of year	$ 9.52	$ 16.13
Weighted Average remaining contractual term
Outstanding, end of year	1 year 4 months 24 days
Aggregate intrinsic value
Outstanding, end of year	$ 9.6

Share-Based and Other Compens60

Share-Based and Other Compensation Plans - Performance Based Restricted Stock Units (Detail) - Performance Based Restricted Stock Units RSU [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Number of units
Outstanding, beginning of year	1,195
Granted	1,186
Cancelled	(461)
Forfeited	(91)
Outstanding, end of year	1,829	1,195
Weighted Average grant date fair value
Outstanding, beginning of year	$ 17.48
Granted	0.94	$ 8.97	$ 21.48
Cancelled	21.96
Forfeited	5.62
Outstanding, end of year	$ 6.22	$ 17.48
Weighted Average remaining contractual term
Outstanding, end of year	1 year 7 months 6 days
Aggregate intrinsic value
Outstanding, end of year	$ 4.9

Fair Value Measurements - Sched

Fair Value Measurements - Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured and Recorded at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets
Marketable securities, fair value	$ 5,381	$ 5,486
Assets, fair value	5,381	5,486
Liabilities
Derivatives, fair value	1,496	2,013
Liabilities, fair value	1,496	2,013
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Assets
Marketable securities, fair value	5,381	5,486
Assets, fair value	5,381	5,486
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Liabilities
Derivatives, fair value		2,013
Liabilities, fair value		$ 2,013
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Liabilities
Derivatives, fair value	1,496
Liabilities, fair value	$ 1,496

Fair Value Measurements - Sch62

Fair Value Measurements - Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured and Recorded at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Sale of marketable securities	$ 1.8
Gain on sale of available-for-sale marketable securities	0.1
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale marketable securities	$ 5	$ 5.3

Retirement Plans and Other Re63

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Bonds	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Curtailment, decrease in pension liability and actuarial loss	$ 10,300
Average remaining life expectancy of plan participants	20 years
Amendment description of plan		In the first quarter of 2015, we amended the defined benefit retirement plan to cease the accrual of additional benefits for the remaining active participants effective March 31, 2015, resulting in a curtailment of $10.3 million that decreased both the pension liability and the actuarial loss recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. As a result of the curtailment, all of the plan’s participants are now considered inactive. Accordingly, all amounts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss are being recognized as an increase to net periodic benefit cost over the average remaining life expectancy of plan participants, which is approximately 20 years, beginning in the second quarter of 2015. Also, as a result of the plan amendment, we recognized in our consolidated statements of operations $0.6 million of prior service credits that were previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Effect on prior service credits by plan amendment	$ 600
Discount rate		3.80%	4.50%
Reduction in interest cost		$ 3,600
Target allocation		100.00%	100.00%
Assumed health care cost trend rate		7.50%	7.50%
Assumed decrease in health care cost trend rate		4.50%
Effect of one percent increase in health care cost trend rate on other postretirement benefit obligation		$ 8,300
Effect of one percent decrease in health care cost trend rate on other postretirement benefit obligation		7,100
Effect of one percent increase in health care cost trend rate on service and interest cost components		400
Effect of one percent decrease in health care cost trend rate on service and interest cost components		300
Recognized compensation expense		$ 10,300	$ 6,800	$ 9,200
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		49.00%	49.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | U S Equity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		33.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | Non-U.S. Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		16.00%
Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		36.00%	36.00%
Other Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		15.00%	15.00%
Other Securities [Member] | Hedge Fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		5.00%
Other Securities [Member] | Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation		10.00%
Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Short Duration Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of investments | Bonds		2
Defined Pension Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated contributions to plan in next fiscal year		$ 2,900
Discount rate		3.82%	4.53%
Accrued benefit costs		$ (107,490)	$ (109,004)
Accrued benefit costs included in other current liabilities		600	600
Accrued benefit costs included in other long-term liabilities		106,900	$ 108,400
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated contributions to plan in next fiscal year		$ 4,100
Discount rate		4.19%	4.50%
Accrued benefit costs		$ (82,897)	$ (90,583)
Accrued benefit costs included in other current liabilities		4,100	4,300
Accrued benefit costs included in other long-term liabilities		$ 78,800	$ 86,300

Retirement Plans and Other Re64

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Prior Service Credits and Actuarial Losses Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss to Net Periodic Pension Benefit Costs, Net of Tax (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service credits reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs	$ (5)	$ (248)	$ (109)
Actuarial loss, net of tax	2,223	5,244	6,510
Realized (gain) loss on investments	(192)	(340)	(390)
Direct Costs of Revenue Excluding Depreciation and Amortization [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service credits reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs	(3)	(141)	(68)
Actuarial loss, net of tax	1,372	3,196	4,070
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service credits reclassified from other comprehensive loss to net periodic pension benefit costs	(2)	(107)	(41)
Actuarial loss, net of tax	851	2,048	2,440
Other Expense, Net [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized (gain) loss on investments	$ (192)	$ (340)	$ (390)

Retirement Plans and Other Re65

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Change in plan assets
Plan assets at beginning of period	$ 326,458
Plan assets at fair value at end of period	$ 317,510	$ 326,458
Weighted average assumptions used to determine accumulated benefit obligation and accrued benefit costs
Discount rate	3.80%	4.50%
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Actuarial loss, net of tax	$ 2,223	$ 5,244	$ 6,510
Prior service credits, net of tax	(5)	(248)	(109)
Defined Pension Benefit Plans [Member]
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of period	435,462	491,118
Service cost		780	2,854
Interest cost	16,183	18,734	19,904
Plan curtailments		(10,314)
Benefits paid	(30,454)	(30,204)
Actuarial (gain) loss	3,738	(34,652)
Benefit obligation at end of period	424,929	435,462	491,118
Change in plan assets
Plan assets at beginning of period	326,458	339,619
Employer contributions	606	16,435
Actual return on plan assets	20,829	607
Benefits paid	(30,454)	(30,204)
Plan assets at fair value at end of period	317,439	326,458	339,619
Accrued benefit costs and funded status of the plans	(107,490)	(109,004)
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 424,929	$ 435,462
Weighted average assumptions used to determine accumulated benefit obligation and accrued benefit costs
Discount rate	3.82%	4.53%
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs
Discount rate	4.53%	4.01%
Expected rate of return on plan assets	7.80%	7.80%
Rate of compensation increase		3.25%
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Actuarial loss, net of tax	$ 2,228	$ 4,883
Prior service credits, net of tax	(8)	(383)
Total	2,220	4,500
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Actuarial loss, net of tax	87,981	84,866
Prior service credits, net of tax	(343)	(348)
Total	87,638	84,518
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost in the subsequent year
Actuarial loss	(3,751)	(3,370)
Total	(3,751)	(3,370)
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of period	90,583	116,086
Service cost		70	128
Interest cost	3,363	4,592	4,562
Employee contributions	422	403
Plan amendments		(202)
Benefits paid	(3,310)	(3,401)
Actuarial (gain) loss	(8,161)	(26,965)
Benefit obligation at end of period	82,897	90,583	$ 116,086
Change in plan assets
Employer contributions	2,888	2,998
Employee contributions	422	403
Benefits paid	(3,310)	(3,401)
Accrued benefit costs and funded status of the plans	$ (82,897)	$ (90,583)
Weighted average assumptions used to determine accumulated benefit obligation and accrued benefit costs
Discount rate	4.19%	4.50%
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs
Discount rate	4.50%	4.04%
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Actuarial loss, net of tax	$ (5)	$ 361
Prior service credits, net of tax	3	135
Total	(2)	496
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet recognized in net periodic benefit cost
Actuarial loss, net of tax	(9,468)	(4,320)
Total	(9,468)	(4,320)
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost in the subsequent year
Prior service credits	8	8
Total	$ 8	$ 8

Retirement Plans and Other Re66

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Target and Actual Asset Allocation of Pension Plan Assets (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation	100.00%	100.00%
Actual allocation	100.00%	100.00%
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation	49.00%	49.00%
Actual allocation	47.00%	49.00%
Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation	36.00%	36.00%
Actual allocation	34.00%	34.00%
Other Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocation	15.00%	15.00%
Actual allocation	19.00%	17.00%

Retirement Plans and Other Re67

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Fair Values of Pension Plan Assets by Asset Category (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	$ 317,510	$ 326,458
Short Duration Bonds [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	90,099	91,897
U.S. Large-Cap [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	80,698	87,383
U.S. Small/Mid-Cap [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	22,184	22,121
World Equity Ex-US [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	46,999	51,720
High Yield Bonds [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	14,125	13,638
Emerging Market Fixed income (Non-US) [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	4,100	4,463
Hedge Fund [Member] | Other Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	15,880	15,913
Core Property Fund [Member] | Other Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	43,266	39,176
Income Earned but not yet Received [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	$ 159	$ 147

Retirement Plans and Other Re68

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Fair Values of Pension Plan Assets by Asset Category (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected investment of net assets in investment-grade, U.S. dollar-denominated debt instruments	100.00%	100.00%
Short Duration Bonds [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected investment of net assets in investment-grade, U.S. dollar-denominated debt instruments	80.00%
Short Duration Bonds [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Securities or fund's average portfolio maturity period	2 years
Short Duration Bonds [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Securities or fund's average portfolio maturity period	0 years
Limited Duration Bond Fund [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Securities or fund's average portfolio maturity period	3 years

Retirement Plans and Other Re69

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Pension Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost		$ 780	$ 2,854
Interest cost	$ 16,183	18,734	19,904
Expected return on plan assets	(25,535)	(25,926)	(24,130)
Amortization of unrecognized prior service credits		(43)	(172)
Amortization of unrecognized net loss	3,370	7,911	10,319
Curtailment (gain) loss		(564)
Special termination benefit recognized			48
Total benefit	(5,982)	892	8,823
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost		70	128
Interest cost	3,363	4,592	4,562
Amortization of unrecognized net loss	(8)	596
Total benefit	$ 3,355	$ 5,258	$ 4,690

Retirement Plans and Other Re70

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits - Benefits Expected to be Paid Next Five Years (Detail) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Defined Pension Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,017	$ 35,308
2,018	28,540
2,019	28,076
2,020	27,360
2,021	27,319
2022 to 2026	133,822
Total	280,425
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,017	4,111
2,018	4,399
2,019	4,673
2,020	4,913
2,021	5,133
2022 to 2026	27,483
Total	$ 50,712

Receivables - Summary of Receiv

Receivables - Summary of Receivables (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ (54,744)	$ (37,178)
Total	203,036	232,775
Services [Member] | Billed [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables, gross	246,833	258,034
Services [Member] | Unbilled [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables, gross	8,872	9,658
Other [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Receivables, gross	$ 2,075	$ 2,261

Satellites and Other Property72

Satellites and Other Property and Equipment - Schedule of Satellites and Other Property and Equipment, Net (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Satellites and other property and equipment, cost	$ 11,342,069	$ 10,693,955
Less: accumulated depreciation	(5,156,227)	(4,705,638)
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	6,185,842	5,988,317
Satellites And Launch Vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Satellites and other property and equipment, cost	10,363,771	9,810,941
Information Systems And Ground Segment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Satellites and other property and equipment, cost	727,929	641,741
Buildings and other [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Satellites and other property and equipment, cost	$ 250,369	$ 241,273

Satellites and Other Property73

Satellites and Other Property and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction-in-progress	$ 1,100	$ 1,500
Capitalized interest	98.3	86.3
Depreciation expense	$ 646.4	$ 627.5	$ 611.1
Solar Array Anomaly [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Insurance proceeds from Partial loss Claim				$ 84.8

Investments - Additional Inform

Investments - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands	Nov. 04, 2015	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Minority_Investment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total assets			$ 12,942,009	$ 12,253,590
Percentage of revenue to JSAT			50.00%
Number of minority investments | Minority_Investment			2
2017 Investment [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Payments for additional investments		$ 16,000
OneWeb [Member] | Other Assets [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Cost method investments			$ 29,000	25,000
Horizons Satellite Holdings [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total assets			48,300	58,700
Total liabilities				300
Revenue share, net of applicable fees and commissions			$ 6,200	6,600
Horizons-3 Satellite LLC [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Percentage of revenue to JSAT	50.00%
Management authority and equal rights to profits and revenues	50.00%
Capital contribution in percent			50.00%
Payments for advance to affiliate			$ 10,300	19,100
Horizons-3 Satellite LLC [Member] | Other Assets [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Equity method investments			$ 31,100	$ 19,100

Investments - Changes in Equity

Investments - Changes in Equity Attributable to Intelsat and Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Beginning Balance				$ (4,620,353)				$ (742,567)	$ (4,620,353)	$ (742,567)
Net income (loss)	$ 663,803	$ 196,605	$ 117,412	16,292	$ (4,115,321)	$ 78,967	$ 61,236	55,665	994,112	(3,919,453)	$ 236,506
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests									(8,980)	(8,423)
Share-based compensation									23,089	25,921
Declaration of preferred stock dividend										(9,919)
Postretirement/pension liability adjustment									2,041	34,449
Other comprehensive income									93	(361)
Ending Balance	(3,609,998)				(4,620,353)				(3,609,998)	(4,620,353)	(742,567)
Intelsat S.A. Shareholders' Deficit [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Beginning Balance				(4,649,565)				(776,268)	(4,649,565)	(776,268)
Net income (loss)									990,197	(3,923,387)
Share-based compensation									23,089	25,921	26,389
Declaration of preferred stock dividend										(9,919)	(9,917)
Postretirement/pension liability adjustment									2,041	34,449
Other comprehensive income									93	(361)	(132)
Ending Balance	(3,634,145)				(4,649,565)				(3,634,145)	(4,649,565)	(776,268)
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Beginning Balance				$ 29,212				$ 33,701	29,212	33,701
Net income (loss)									3,915	3,934
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests									(8,980)	(8,423)	(8,744)
Ending Balance	$ 24,147				$ 29,212				$ 24,147	$ 29,212	$ 33,701

Goodwill and Other Intangible76

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Carrying Amounts of Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets not Subject to Amortization (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 2,620,627	$ 2,620,627
Intangible Assets	2,452,900	2,452,900
Orbital Locations [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets	2,387,700	2,387,700
Trade Name [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets	$ 65,200	$ 65,200

Goodwill and Other Intangible77

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Carrying Amounts of Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets not Subject to Amortization (Parenthetical) (Detail) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Accumulated impairment losses	$ 4,160,200

Goodwill and Other Intangible78

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Segment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Number of operating segments for impairment analysis | Segment		1
Goodwill impairment charges			$ 4,200,000,000
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles	$ 4,200,000,000		4,165,400,000
Amortization expense		$ 48,500,000	60,200,000	$ 68,200,000
Orbital Locations [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of indefinite lived intangible assets		0	0
Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles			$ 5,200,000
Intelsat Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of indefinite lived intangible assets		$ 0

Goodwill and Other Intangible79

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Carrying Amount and Accumulated Amortization of Acquired Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 1,277,790	$ 1,277,790
Accumulated Amortization	(885,952)	(837,460)
Net Carrying Amount	391,838	440,330
Backlog and Other [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	743,760	743,760
Accumulated Amortization	(669,045)	(647,534)
Net Carrying Amount	74,715	96,226
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	534,030	534,030
Accumulated Amortization	(216,907)	(189,926)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 317,123	$ 344,104

Goodwill and Other Intangible80

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Scheduled Amortization Charges for Intangible Assets (Detail) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 42,254
2,018	38,481
2,019	34,351
2,020	31,103
2,021	$ 28,635

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Ca

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Carrying Values and Fair Values of Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	May 31, 2016	Mar. 29, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Apr. 26, 2012	Apr. 05, 2011
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	$ 14,198,084			$ 14,611,379
Current portion of long-term debt	0			0
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs				(121,700)
Total long-term debt, excluding current portion	14,198,084			14,611,379
Long-term debt, Fair Value	11,281,169			11,331,337
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt, excluding current portion	(1,406,823)
Senior Secured Credit Facilities Due June 2019 [Member] | Jackson Revolver [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	(21,682)			(30,204)
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	3,467,902			3,442,462
Total long-term debt, excluding current portion	3,467,902			3,442,462
Long-term debt, Fair Value	1,345,000			1,735,063
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member] | 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	500,000			475,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	(5,746)			(2,066)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	410,000			355,063
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member] | 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	2,000,000			2,000,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	(16,588)			(19,602)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	640,000			930,000
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member] | 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	1,000,000			1,000,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	(9,764)			(10,870)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	295,000			450,000
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	434,627
Total long-term debt, excluding current portion	434,627
Long-term debt, Fair Value	475,725
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	(1,406,823)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	(676,382)
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Fair Value	(330,107)
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Fair Value	(313,334)
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Fair Value	(32,941)
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 12.5% Senior Notes due April 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	731,884
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	(297,257)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	475,725
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	(402,570)
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	5,490
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	(979,168)
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	8,121
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	(111,663)
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	1,090
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | Twelve Point Five Percentage Senior Notes [Member] | Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	71,877
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	11,702,378			11,168,917	$ 360,000		$ 2,650,000
Total long-term debt, excluding current portion	11,702,378			11,168,917
Long-term debt, Fair Value	10,136,826			9,596,274
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 9.5% Senior Secured Notes due September 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	490,000	$ 490,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	(20,243)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	543,900
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 8.00% Senior Secured Notes due February 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	1,349,678		$ 1,250,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	(6,005)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	1,383,420
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.25% Senior Notes due October 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	2,200,000			2,200,000		$ 1,200,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium	(6,756)			(8,248)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	1,716,000			1,919,500
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.25% Senior Notes due April 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	1,500,000			1,500,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	(5,886)			(8,203)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	1,260,000			1,368,750
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	1,150,000			1,150,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	(6,828)			(8,137)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	879,750			1,000,500
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 6.625 % Senior Notes due December 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value				1,275,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs and premium				20,428
Long-term debt, Fair Value				803,250
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 5.5% Senior Notes due August 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	2,000,000			2,000,000
Unamortized prepaid debt issuance costs	(14,900)			(16,719)
Long-term debt, Fair Value	1,340,000			1,560,000
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | Senior Secured Credit Facilities Due June 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	3,095,000			3,095,000
Long-term debt, Fair Value	$ 3,013,756			$ 2,944,274

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of 82

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Carrying Values and Fair Values of Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	May 31, 2016	Mar. 29, 2016
6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member] | Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2018-06	2018-06
Senior Notes, Interest rate	6.75%	6.75%
7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 [Member] | Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2021-06	2021-06
Senior Notes, Interest rate	7.75%	7.75%
8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member] | Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2023-06	2023-06
Senior Notes, Interest rate	8.125%	8.125%
12.5% Senior Notes due April 2022 [Member] | Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2022-04	2022-04
Senior Notes, Interest rate	12.50%	12.50%
9.5% Senior Secured Notes due September 2022 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2022-09	2022-09
Senior Notes, Interest rate	9.50%	9.50%	9.50%
8.00% Senior Secured Notes due February 2024 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2024-02	2024-02
Senior Notes, Interest rate	8.00%	8.00%		8.00%
7.25% Senior Notes due October 2020 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2020-10	2020-10
Senior Notes, Interest rate	7.25%	7.25%
7.25% Senior Notes due April 2019 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2019-04	2019-04
Senior Notes, Interest rate	7.25%	7.25%
7.5% Senior Notes due April 2021 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2021-04	2021-04
Senior Notes, Interest rate	7.50%	7.50%
6.625 % Senior Notes due December 2022 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2022-12	2022-12
Senior Notes, Interest rate	6.625%	6.625%	6.625%
5.5% Senior Notes due August 2023 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2023-08	2023-08
Senior Notes, Interest rate	5.50%	5.50%
Senior Secured Credit Facilities Due June 2019 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2019-06	2019-06
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member] | 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member] | Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2018-06	2018-06
Senior Notes, Interest rate	6.75%	6.75%
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member] | 7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 [Member] | Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2021-06	2021-06
Senior Notes, Interest rate	7.75%	7.75%
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member] | 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member] | Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Maturity date	2023-06	2023-06
Senior Notes, Interest rate	8.125%	8.125%

Long-Term Debt - Additional Inf

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Detail)	Jul. 15, 2016USD ($)	Nov. 27, 2013USD ($)	Jan. 12, 2011USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Convenant	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	May 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Convenant	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Convenant	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2016USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 26, 2012USD ($)	Apr. 05, 2011USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Reduction in long term debt, net of current portion										$ 121,700,000			$ 121,700,000
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 14,198,084,000			$ 14,198,084,000			14,611,379,000		$ 14,198,084,000	14,611,379,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt												$ 1,030,092,000	7,061,000	$ (40,423,000)
Number of financial covenants | Convenant				2			2					2
Intelsat Jackson Revolving Credit New Tranche [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instruments variable interest rate spread		2.75%
Intelsat Jackson Revolving Credit New Tranche [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instruments variable interest rate spread		1.00%
Intelsat Jackson Revolving Credit New Tranche [Member] | ABR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instruments variable interest rate spread		1.75%
Term Loan Facility [Member] | Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Term loan facility			$ 3,250,000,000
First Luxembourg 2018 Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fees				$ 3,300,000
Cash paid in connection with the debt exchanges				226,500,000
2021 Luxembourg Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				538,400,000			$ 538,400,000					$ 538,400,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt				609,800,000
Cash paid in connection with the debt exchanges				29,400,000
Luxembourg 2023 Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				61,400,000			61,400,000					61,400,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt				69,400,000
Cash paid in connection with the debt exchanges				3,300,000
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Availability remaining under revolving credit facility				432,800,000			432,800,000					432,800,000
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Interest rate																	3.00%
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | ABR [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Interest rate																	2.00%
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Term Loan Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Quarterly payment percentage			0.25%
Debt, maturity date		Jun. 30, 2019
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility			$ 500,000,000
Maximum available of revolving credit facility				350,000,000			350,000,000					$ 350,000,000
Unused commitment fee percentage												0.375%
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Intelsat Jackson Revolving Credit New Tranche [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility		$ 450,000,000
Debt, maturity date		Jul. 12, 2017
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Intelsat Jackson Revolving Credit Tranche [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility		$ 50,000,000
Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Swingline Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum available of revolving credit facility				70,000,000			70,000,000					$ 70,000,000
6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes															$ 403,300,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate															6.75%
12.5% Senior Notes due 2024 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes, Interest rate															12.50%
2018 Luxembourg Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes															$ 25,000,000
2018 Luxembourg Notes [Member] | First Luxembourg 2018 Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				377,600,000			377,600,000					377,600,000
12.5% Senior Notes due 2022 [Member] | First Luxembourg 2018 Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 132,100,000			$ 132,100,000					$ 132,100,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				12.50%			12.50%					12.50%
7.75% Senior Notes due June 2021 [Member] | 2021 Luxembourg Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 979,200,000			$ 979,200,000					$ 979,200,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				7.75%			7.75%					7.75%
8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member] | Luxembourg 2023 Exchange [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 111,700,000			$ 111,700,000					$ 111,700,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				8.125%			8.125%					8.125%
Financial Covenants [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated secured debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio												2.65
Consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense												2.20
Financial Covenants [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated secured debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio												3.50
Consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense												1.75
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 11,702,378,000			$ 11,702,378,000			11,168,917,000	$ 360,000,000	$ 11,702,378,000	11,168,917,000						$ 2,650,000,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt												$ (350,962,000)		$ (40,423,000)
Dividend declared and paid											$ 360,000,000
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | New Jackson Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on April 1 and October 1.
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.25% Senior Notes due October 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 2,200,000,000			$ 2,200,000,000			$ 2,200,000,000		$ 2,200,000,000	$ 2,200,000,000					$ 1,200,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				7.25%			7.25%			7.25%		7.25%	7.25%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2020-10	2020-10
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on April 15 and October 15.
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.25% Senior Notes due 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 1,500,000,000			$ 1,500,000,000					$ 1,500,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				7.25%			7.25%					7.25%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2019-04
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.5% Senior Notes due April 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Reduction in long term debt, net of current portion				$ 6,828,000			$ 6,828,000			$ 8,137,000		$ 6,828,000	$ 8,137,000
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 1,150,000,000			$ 1,150,000,000			$ 1,150,000,000		$ 1,150,000,000	$ 1,150,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				7.50%			7.50%			7.50%		7.50%	7.50%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2021-04	2021-04
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 5 1/2% Senior Notes due 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 2,000,000,000			$ 2,000,000,000					$ 2,000,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				5.50%			5.50%					5.50%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2023-08
Early redemption price equal to percentage of principal amount of notes												100.00%
Early redemption price equal to percentage of aggregate principal amount of notes from equity offerings												40.00%
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 8.00% Senior Secured Notes due February 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 1,349,678,000			$ 1,349,678,000					$ 1,349,678,000				$ 1,250,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				8.00%			8.00%			8.00%		8.00%	8.00%			8.00%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2024-02	2024-02
Senior Notes, Principal amount					$ 99,700,000			$ 99,700,000
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on February 15 and August 15.
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 6.625 % Senior Notes due December 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes										$ 1,275,000,000			$ 1,275,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				6.625%		6.625%	6.625%			6.625%		6.625%	6.625%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2022-12	2022-12
Debt amount repurchased, redeemed or prepaid						$ 459,700,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt						131,400,000			$ 131,400,000
Debt amount repurchased, redeemed or prepaid					141,400,000
Cash paid as part of repayment					17,000,000
Principal amount of debt consent for amendment of indenture					141,500,000
Cash paid for amendment of indenture					$ 9,200,000
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 12.5% Senior Notes due 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 96,700,000			$ 96,700,000					$ 96,700,000
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 9.5% Senior Secured Notes due September 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Reduction in long term debt, net of current portion				20,243,000			20,243,000					20,243,000
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 490,000,000		$ 490,000,000	$ 490,000,000					$ 490,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				9.50%		9.50%	9.50%			9.50%		9.50%	9.50%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2022-09	2022-09
Debt amount repurchased, redeemed or prepaid	$ 673,500,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt								$ 219,600,000				$ 219,600,000
Senior Notes, Discount rate						2.00%
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on March 30 and September 30.
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 3,467,902,000			$ 3,467,902,000			$ 3,442,462,000		$ 3,467,902,000	$ 3,442,462,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt													7,061,000
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member] | 6.75% Senior Notes due June 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 500,000,000			$ 500,000,000			$ 475,000,000		$ 500,000,000	$ 475,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				6.75%			6.75%			6.75%		6.75%	6.75%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2018-06	2018-06
Debt amount repurchased, redeemed or prepaid										$ 25,000,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt										7,100,000
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on June 1 and December 1
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member] | 7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 2,000,000,000			$ 2,000,000,000					$ 2,000,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				7.75%			7.75%					7.75%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2021-06
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on June 1 and December 1.
Early redemption price equal to percentage of principal amount of notes												100.00%
Early redemption price equal to percentage of aggregate principal amount of notes from equity offerings												40.00%
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member] | 8.125% Senior Notes due June 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Reduction in long term debt, net of current portion				$ 9,764,000			$ 9,764,000			10,870,000		$ 9,764,000	$ 10,870,000
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 1,000,000,000			$ 1,000,000,000			$ 1,000,000,000		$ 1,000,000,000	$ 1,000,000,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				8.125%			8.125%			8.125%		8.125%	8.125%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2023-06	2023-06
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on June 1 and December 1.
Early redemption price equal to percentage of principal amount of notes												100.00%
Early redemption price equal to percentage of aggregate principal amount of notes from equity offerings												40.00%
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 434,627,000			$ 434,627,000					$ 434,627,000
Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt							679,100,000
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				979,200,000			979,200,000					979,200,000
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 12.5% Senior Secured Notes due April 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes				$ 731,900,000			$ 731,900,000					$ 731,900,000
Senior Notes, Interest rate				12.50%			12.50%					12.50%
Senior Notes, Maturity date												2022-04
Interest payment dates												Semi-annually on June 15 and December 15.
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member] | 2018 Luxembourg Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount of senior notes															$ 377,600,000

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Pr

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Principal Repayments of Long-Term Debt (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 0
2,018	97,430
2,019	4,595,000
2,020	2,200,000
2,021	2,170,832
2022 and thereafter	5,459,899
Total principal repayments	14,523,161
Unamortized discounts, premium and prepaid issuance costs	(325,077)
Total Intelsat S.A. long-term debt	$ 14,198,084	$ 14,611,379

Derivative Instruments and He85

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivatives	$ 0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability, fair value	$ 1,496,000	$ 2,013,000
Series B Senior Notes [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Percentage of repurchase of notes	101.00%
Interest Rate Swap Maturing January 2016 [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Aggregate notional amount		$ 1,600,000,000
Derivative maturity date	January 2,016

Derivative Instruments and He86

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Schedule of Fair Value of Derivatives by Category (Detail) - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability, fair value	$ 1,496	$ 2,013
Other Current Liabilities [Member] | Put Option Embedded Derivative [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability, fair value	$ 1,496
Other Current Liabilities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability, fair value		$ 2,013

Derivative Instruments and He87

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Schedule of Effect of Derivative Instruments, Included in Interest Expense, Net in Consolidated Statements of Operations (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Total loss on derivative financial instruments		$ 3,483	$ 5,649
Included in Interest Expense, Net [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Undesignated interest rate swaps		3,483	5,649
Included in Interest Expense, Net [Member] | Put Option Embedded Derivative [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Put option embedded derivative Included in interest expense, net	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Income Taxes - Summary of Total

Income Taxes - Summary of Total Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Provision For Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ 1,010,098	$ (3,917,940)	$ 259,477
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Provision For Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	938,156	(3,966,322)	199,682
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Provision For Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ 71,942	$ 48,382	$ 59,795

Income Taxes - Provision for (B

Income Taxes - Provision for (Benefit from) Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current income tax provision
Domestic	$ (35)		$ 2,306
Foreign	25,721	$ 10,817	33,311
Total	25,686	10,817	35,617
Deferred income tax benefit:
Domestic	(80)
Foreign	(9,620)	(9,304)	(12,646)
Total	(9,700)	(9,304)	(12,646)
Total income tax provision (benefit)	$ 15,986	$ 1,513	$ 22,971

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax [Line Items]
Deferred tax asset attributable to net operating loss carryforwards	$ (3,937,736,000)	$ (2,232,359,000)
Deferred tax assets attributable to tax credit carryforwards	17,562,000	36,656,000
Net operating loss carryforwards with expiration	56,400,000
Net operating loss carryforwards without expiration	3,900,000,000
Alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards	8,900,000
Foreign tax credit carryforward	17,200,000
Research and development credit carryforward	2,600,000
Valuation allowance amount	(3,415,491,000)	(2,861,011,000)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits	36,167,000	40,248,000	$ 67,135,000
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	27,900,000	29,600,000
Reserves for interest and penalties	3,100,000	5,000,000
Increase in prior period tax position	1,500,000
Increase related to current tax position	2,300,000
Decrease due to the settlement of an audit	800,000
Decrease due to the expiration of statute of limitations for assessment of taxes	$ 7,034,000	30,018,000
Research and Development Tax Credit Carryforward [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward expiry Date	2,036
Future Benefit [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets attributable to tax credit carryforwards	$ 28,700,000	$ 46,300,000
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Enacted tax rate	29.22%
Minimum [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward expiry Date	2,021
Maximum [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforward expiry Date	2,036

Income Taxes - Income Tax Provi

Income Taxes - Income Tax Provision (Benefit) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Expected tax provision (benefit) at Luxembourg statutory income tax rate	$ 295,150	$ (1,144,822)	$ 75,819
Foreign income tax differential	51,787	42,339	40,099
Nontaxable interest income		(67,651)	(53,361)
Domestic financing activities	(8,279)	40,169	6,038
Change in tax rate	416,156
Tax deductible impairment charges in Luxembourg subsidiaries	(1,280,759)	(854,393)
Goodwill impairment		599,974
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits	(1,629)	(15,465)	1,229
Changes in valuation allowance	554,479	1,463,774	(24,147)
Tax effect of 2011 Intercompany Sale	(6,701)	(6,112)	(6,740)
Foreign tax credits	(5,480)	(2,171)	(2,147)
Research and development tax credits	(3,275)	(2,103)	(5,564)
Other	4,537	(52,026)	(8,255)
Total income tax provision (benefit)	$ 15,986	$ 1,513	$ 22,971

Income Taxes - Components of Ne

Income Taxes - Components of Net Deferred Tax Liability (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-term deferred taxes, net	$ (168,445)	$ (160,802)
Other assets	15,181	12,203
Deferred tax assets:
Accruals and advances	31,015	26,672
Amortizable intangible assets	17,549	739,058
Performance incentives	14,599	17,596
Customer deposits	20,664	17,771
Bad debt reserve	8,659	3,607
Accrued retirement benefits	67,988	72,520
Disallowed interest expense carryforward	109,575	111,038
Net operating loss carryforward	3,937,736	2,232,359
Tax credits	17,562	36,656
Other	16,491	14,646
Total deferred tax assets	4,241,848	3,271,923
Deferred tax liabilities:
Satellites and other property and equipment	(186,390)	(172,574)
Amortizable intangible assets	(379,653)	(30,788)
Non-amortizable intangible assets	(109,844)	(116,526)
Tax basis differences in investments and affiliates	(231,210)	(218,583)
Other	(72,524)	(21,040)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(979,621)	(559,511)
Valuation allowance	(3,415,491)	(2,861,011)
Total net deferred tax liabilities	$ (153,264)	$ (148,599)

Income Taxes - Summary of Activ

Income Taxes - Summary of Activity Related to Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance at January 1	$ 40,248	$ 67,135
Increases related to current year tax positions	2,301	3,237
Increases related to prior year tax positions	1,530	962
Decreases related to prior year tax positions	(878)	(1,068)
Expiration of statute of limitations for the assessment of taxes	(7,034)	(30,018)
Balance at December 31	$ 36,167	$ 40,248

Contractual Commitments - Addit

Contractual Commitments - Additional Expenditures and Expected Year of Payment (Detail) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	$ 681,690
2,018	365,500
2,019	213,148
2,020	106,320
2,021	89,112
2022 and thereafter	416,146
Total contractual commitments	1,871,916
Sublease [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	(410)
2,018	(407)
2,019	(355)
2,020	(263)
2,021	(48)
2022 and thereafter	(184)
Total Sublease Rental Income	(1,667)
Satellite Construction and Launch Obligations [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	482,546
2,018	234,238
2,019	121,925
2,020	32,269
2,021	30,682
2022 and thereafter	47,814
Total contractual commitments	949,474
Satellite Performance Incentive Obligations [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	44,878
2,018	34,147
2,019	32,224
2,020	32,150
2,021	31,354
2022 and thereafter	187,459
Total contractual commitments	362,212
Horizons-3 Satellite LLC Contribution Obligations [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	21,700
2,018	36,400
2,019	4,600
2,020	11,700
2,021	13,300
2022 and thereafter	74,700
Total contractual commitments	162,400
Operating Leases [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	14,304
2,018	13,795
2,019	13,597
2,020	13,128
2,021	12,954
2022 and thereafter	106,357
Total contractual commitments	174,135
Customer and Vendor Contracts [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
2,017	118,672
2,018	47,327
2,019	41,157
2,020	17,336
2,021	870
Total contractual commitments	$ 225,362

Contractual Commitments - Add95

Contractual Commitments - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
Contractual commitments	$ 1,871,916,000
Total obligation related to operating leases	172,500,000
Total rental expense	14,000,000	$ 14,900,000	$ 13,000,000
Satellite Construction and Launch Obligations [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
Contractual commitments	949,474,000
Satellite Performance Incentive Obligations [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
Contractual commitments	362,212,000
Customer and Vendor Contracts [Member]
Contractual Commitments [Line Items]
Contractual commitments	$ 225,362,000

Business and Geographic Segme96

Business and Geographic Segment Information - Schedule of Geographic Distribution of Revenue (Detail) - Revenues [Member] - Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
North America [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	49.00%	47.00%	45.00%
Europe [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	14.00%	15.00%	17.00%
Latin America and Caribbean [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	15.00%	15.00%	16.00%
Africa and Middle East [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	13.00%	14.00%	14.00%
Asia Pacific [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	9.00%	9.00%	8.00%

Business and Geographic Segme97

Business and Geographic Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail) - Customer	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of major customers	10
Revenues [Member] | Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	8.00%	7.00%	4.00%
Largest customers accounted revenue in percentage	31.00%	29.00%	26.00%

Business and Geographic Segme98

Business and Geographic Segment Information - Schedule of Off-Network and On-Network Revenues (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 550,694	$ 542,727	$ 541,983	$ 552,643	$ 571,259	$ 580,847	$ 598,109	$ 602,306	$ 2,188,047	$ 2,352,521	$ 2,472,386
On-Network Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									1,985,000	2,149,770	2,253,396
On-Network Revenues [Member] | Transponder, MSS and Other Off-Network Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									1,561,108	1,705,568	1,779,458
On-Network Revenues [Member] | Managed Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									414,758	405,330	415,269
On-Network Revenues [Member] | Channel [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									9,134	38,872	58,669
Off-Network and Other Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									203,047	202,751	218,990
Off-Network and Other Revenues [Member] | Transponder, MSS and Other Off-Network Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									157,212	160,063	171,637
Off-Network and Other Revenues [Member] | Satellite-Related Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue									$ 45,835	$ 42,688	$ 47,353
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | On-Network Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									91.00%	91.00%	91.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | On-Network Revenues [Member] | Transponder, MSS and Other Off-Network Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									71.00%	73.00%	72.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | On-Network Revenues [Member] | Managed Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									19.00%	17.00%	17.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | On-Network Revenues [Member] | Channel [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									0.00%	2.00%	2.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | Off-Network and Other Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									9.00%	9.00%	9.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | Off-Network and Other Revenues [Member] | Transponder, MSS and Other Off-Network Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Revenues [Member] | Service Concentration Risk [Member] | Off-Network and Other Revenues [Member] | Satellite-Related Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage									2.00%	2.00%	2.00%

Related Party Transactions - Ad

Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Horizons Satellite Holdings [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity method investment,ownership percentage	50.00%
Horizons-3 Satellite LLC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity method investment,ownership percentage	50.00%

Quarterly Results of Operati100

Quarterly Results of Operations (unaudited) - Quarterly Results of Operations (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 550,694	$ 542,727	$ 541,983	$ 552,643	$ 571,259	$ 580,847	$ 598,109	$ 602,306	$ 2,188,047	$ 2,352,521	$ 2,472,386
Income (loss) from operations	233,705	220,410	227,324	239,173	(3,897,122)	284,999	290,842	292,762	920,612	(3,028,521)	1,247,280
Net income (loss)	663,803	196,605	117,412	16,292	(4,115,321)	78,967	61,236	55,665	994,112	(3,919,453)	236,506
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat S.A.	662,820	195,622	116,429	15,326	(4,116,306)	77,982	60,220	54,717	990,197	(3,923,387)	232,532
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders	$ 662,820	$ 195,622	$ 116,429	$ 15,326	$ (4,116,306)	$ 77,982	$ 50,301	$ 54,717	$ 990,197	$ (3,933,306)	$ 222,615
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Intelsat S.A.:
Basic	$ 5.62	$ 1.66	$ 1.02	$ 0.14	$ (38.29)	$ 0.73	$ 0.47	$ 0.51	$ 8.65	$ (36.68)	$ 2.09
Diluted	$ 5.56	$ 1.65	$ 0.98	$ 0.13	$ (38.29)	$ 0.66	$ 0.47	$ 0.47	$ 8.36	$ (36.68)	$ 1.99

Quarterly Results of Operati101

Quarterly Results of Operations (unaudited) - Quarterly Results of Operations (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Results Of Operations [Line Items]
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles					$ 4,200,000		$ 4,165,400
Gain on early extinguishment of debt						$ 1,030,092	7,061	$ (40,423)
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Quarterly Results Of Operations [Line Items]
Gain on early extinguishment of debt		$ 679,100
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Quarterly Results Of Operations [Line Items]
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles							$ 4,165,400
Gain on early extinguishment of debt						(350,962)		$ (40,423)
6.625 % Senior Notes due December 2022 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Quarterly Results Of Operations [Line Items]
Gain on early extinguishment of debt	$ 131,400			$ 131,400
9.5% Senior Secured Notes due September 2022 [Member] | Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Quarterly Results Of Operations [Line Items]
Gain on early extinguishment of debt			$ 219,600			$ 219,600

Supplemental Consolidating F102

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Apr. 26, 2012	Apr. 05, 2011
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	$ 14,198,084	$ 14,611,379
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2,134	34,088	$ (52,134)
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	11,702,378	11,168,917		$ 360,000		$ 2,650,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2,100	34,100	$ (52,100)
Intelsat Jackson [Member] | 7.25% Senior Notes due October 2020 [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, Carrying Value	$ 2,200,000	$ 2,200,000			$ 1,200,000

Supplemental Consolidating F103

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information - Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 666,024	$ 171,541	$ 123,147	$ 247,790
Receivables, net of allowance	203,036	232,775
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	55,908	35,784
Total current assets	924,968	440,100
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	6,185,842	5,988,317
Goodwill	2,620,627	2,620,627
Non-amortizable intangible assets	2,452,900	2,452,900
Amortizable intangible assets, net	391,838	440,330
Other assets	365,834	311,316
Total assets	12,942,009	12,253,590
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	282,898	211,484
Accrued interest payable	204,840	161,493
Deferred satellite performance incentives	23,455	19,411
Other current liabilities	222,470	172,054
Total current liabilities	733,663	564,442
Long-term debt, net of current portion	14,198,084	14,611,379
Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion	210,706	162,177
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	906,744	1,010,242
Deferred income taxes	168,445	160,802
Accrued retirement benefits	186,284	195,385
Other long-term liabilities	148,081	169,516
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	1,180	1,076
Preferred shares		35
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	(3,611,178)	(4,621,464)
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	12,942,009	12,253,590
Intelsat S.A. and Other Parent Guarantors [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	552	16,941	6,229	3,792
Receivables, net of allowance	2
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	882	919
Total current assets	1,436	17,860
Investment in affiliates	(3,086,095)	(4,120,570)
Other assets	169	87
Total assets	(3,084,490)	(4,102,623)
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	23,153	28,622
Intercompany payables	502,355	489,108
Total current liabilities	525,508	517,730
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	1,180	1,076
Preferred shares		35
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	(3,611,178)	(4,621,464)
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	(3,084,490)	(4,102,623)
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	59,752	760	1,068	139
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	3
Intercompany receivables		116,396
Total current assets	59,755	117,156
Investment in affiliates	(23,113)	(769,452)
Total assets	36,642	(652,296)
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		10
Accrued interest payable	13,158	22,360
Intercompany payables	366,589
Total current liabilities	379,747	22,370
Long-term debt, net of current portion	3,467,902	3,442,462
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	7,202	7,202
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	(3,818,209)	(4,124,330)
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	36,642	(652,296)
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	495,225	109,959	63,633	193,090
Receivables, net of allowance	151,345	173,869
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	48,320	28,633
Intercompany receivables	557,959	49,539
Total current assets	1,252,849	362,000
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	6,096,459	5,897,103
Goodwill	2,620,627	2,620,627
Non-amortizable intangible assets	2,452,900	2,452,900
Amortizable intangible assets, net	391,838	440,330
Investment in affiliates	184,804	139,983
Other assets	303,623	278,771
Total assets	13,303,100	12,191,714
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	221,564	154,247
Accrued interest payable	189,395	139,133
Deferred satellite performance incentives	23,455	19,411
Other current liabilities	219,389	168,261
Total current liabilities	653,803	481,052
Long-term debt, net of current portion	11,702,378	11,168,917
Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion	210,706	162,177
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	906,521	1,010,019
Deferred income taxes	156,081	150,283
Accrued retirement benefits	186,086	195,170
Other long-term liabilities	139,434	161,420
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	200	3,114,981
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	(652,109)	(4,252,305)
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	13,303,100	12,191,714
Intelsat Jackson Subsidiaries Guarantors [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	414,339	89,641	63,144	167,800
Receivables, net of allowance	151,322	173,638
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	48,263	28,593
Total current assets	613,924	291,872
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	6,096,459	5,897,103
Goodwill	2,620,627	2,620,627
Non-amortizable intangible assets	2,452,900	2,452,900
Amortizable intangible assets, net	391,838	440,330
Investment in affiliates	184,804	139,983
Other assets	303,623	278,771
Total assets	12,664,175	12,121,586
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	218,897	154,861
Accrued interest payable	3,146	1,964
Deferred satellite performance incentives	23,455	19,411
Other current liabilities	219,389	166,248
Intercompany payables	2,183,616	2,038,908
Total current liabilities	2,648,503	2,381,392
Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion	210,706	162,177
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	906,521	1,010,019
Deferred income taxes	156,081	150,283
Accrued retirement benefits	186,086	195,170
Other long-term liabilities	139,434	161,420
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	5,558,066	5,558,066
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	2,858,778	2,503,059
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	12,664,175	12,121,586
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	80,510	43,881	52,217	50,769
Receivables, net of allowance	51,689	58,906
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	6,703	6,680
Intercompany receivables	302,118	323,173
Total current assets	441,020	432,640
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	89,383	91,214
Other assets	62,123	32,458
Total assets	592,526	556,312
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	27,351	29,053
Other current liabilities	3,081	3,793
Total current liabilities	30,432	32,846
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	223	223
Deferred income taxes	12,444	10,519
Accrued retirement benefits	198	215
Other long-term liabilities	7,093	8,096
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	24	24
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	542,112	504,389
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	592,526	556,312
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	29,985
Intercompany receivables	8,867
Total current assets	38,852
Investment in affiliates	(651,909)
Other assets	681,910
Total assets	68,853
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	10,830
Accrued interest payable	2,287
Total current liabilities	13,117
Long-term debt, net of current portion	434,627
Other long-term liabilities	1,554
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	(380,445)
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	68,853
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	(414,339)	(89,641)	$ (63,144)	$ (167,800)
Receivables, net of allowance	(151,322)	(173,638)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(48,263)	(29,041)
Intercompany receivables	(868,944)	(489,108)
Total current assets	(1,482,868)	(781,428)
Satellites and other property and equipment, net	(6,096,459)	(5,897,103)
Goodwill	(2,620,627)	(2,620,627)
Non-amortizable intangible assets	(2,452,900)	(2,452,900)
Amortizable intangible assets, net	(391,838)	(440,330)
Investment in affiliates	3,391,509	4,610,056
Other assets	(985,614)	(278,771)
Total assets	(10,638,797)	(7,861,103)
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(218,897)	(155,309)
Accrued interest payable	(3,146)	(1,964)
Deferred satellite performance incentives	(23,455)	(19,411)
Other current liabilities	(219,389)	(166,248)
Intercompany payables	(3,052,560)	(2,528,016)
Total current liabilities	(3,517,447)	(2,870,948)
Long-term debt, net of current portion	(1,406,823)
Deferred satellite performance incentives, net of current portion	(210,706)	(162,177)
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	(906,521)	(1,010,019)
Deferred income taxes	(156,161)	(150,283)
Accrued retirement benefits	(186,086)	(195,170)
Other long-term liabilities	(139,434)	(161,420)
Shareholders' equity (deficit):
Common shares	(5,565,492)	(8,680,273)
Other shareholders' equity (deficit)	1,449,873	5,369,187
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	$ (10,638,797)	$ (7,861,103)

Supplemental Consolidating F104

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information - Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 550,694	$ 542,727	$ 541,983	$ 552,643	$ 571,259	$ 580,847	$ 598,109	$ 602,306	$ 2,188,047	$ 2,352,521	$ 2,472,386
Operating expenses:
Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization)									341,147	328,501	348,348
Selling, general and administrative									231,397	199,412	197,407
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles					4,200,000					4,165,400
Depreciation and amortization									694,891	687,729	679,351
Total operating expenses									1,267,435	5,381,042	1,225,106
Income (loss) from operations	233,705	220,410	227,324	239,173	(3,897,122)	284,999	290,842	292,762	920,612	(3,028,521)	1,247,280
Interest expense (income), net									938,501	890,279	944,787
Gain on early extinguishment of debt									1,030,092	7,061	(40,423)
Other income (expense), net									(2,105)	(6,201)	(2,593)
Income (loss) before income taxes									1,010,098	(3,917,940)	259,477
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									15,986	1,513	22,971
Net income (loss)	663,803	196,605	117,412	16,292	(4,115,321)	78,967	61,236	55,665	994,112	(3,919,453)	236,506
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest									(3,915)	(3,934)	(3,974)
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.	662,820	195,622	116,429	15,326	(4,116,306)	77,982	60,220	54,717	990,197	(3,923,387)	232,532
Cumulative preferred dividends										(9,919)	(9,917)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders	662,820	$ 195,622	$ 116,429	$ 15,326	$ (4,116,306)	$ 77,982	$ 50,301	$ 54,717	990,197	(3,933,306)	222,615
Intelsat S.A. and Other Parent Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenue									2,952
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative									7,884	7,912	7,547
Total operating expenses									7,884	7,912	7,547
Income (loss) from operations									(4,932)	(7,912)	(7,547)
Interest expense (income), net									13,596	10,723	10,153
Subsidiary income (loss)									1,008,614	(3,904,747)	250,281
Other income (expense), net									(4)		2
Income (loss) before income taxes									990,082	(3,923,382)	232,583
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									(115)	3	53
Net income (loss)									990,197	(3,923,385)	232,530
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									990,197	(3,923,385)	232,530
Cumulative preferred dividends										(9,919)	(9,917)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders										(3,933,304)	222,613
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative									168	193	139
Total operating expenses									168	193	139
Income (loss) from operations									(168)	(193)	(139)
Interest expense (income), net									272,791	274,451	274,253
Gain on early extinguishment of debt										7,061
Subsidiary income (loss)									605,685	(3,614,952)	545,402
Income (loss) before income taxes									332,726	(3,882,535)	271,010
Net income (loss)									332,726	(3,882,535)	271,010
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									332,726	(3,882,535)	271,010
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders										(3,882,535)	271,010
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative									61
Total operating expenses									61
Income (loss) from operations									(61)
Interest expense (income), net									8
Gain on early extinguishment of debt	$ 679,100
Subsidiary income (loss)									597,995
Income (loss) before income taxes									597,926
Net income (loss)									597,926
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									597,926
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenue									1,999,114	2,160,235	2,281,331
Operating expenses:
Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization)									264,587	241,603	257,999
Selling, general and administrative									140,952	126,331	132,379
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles										4,165,400
Depreciation and amortization									676,542	654,784	644,597
Total operating expenses									1,082,081	5,188,118	1,034,975
Income (loss) from operations									917,033	(3,027,883)	1,246,356
Interest expense (income), net									661,671	613,162	660,763
Gain on early extinguishment of debt									(350,962)		(40,423)
Subsidiary income (loss)									9,869	11,983	14,729
Other income (expense), net									(5,909)	4,367	2,864
Income (loss) before income taxes									610,284	(3,624,695)	562,763
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									12,290	(1,871)	17,361
Net income (loss)									597,994	(3,622,824)	545,402
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									597,994	(3,622,824)	545,402
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders										(3,622,824)	545,402
Intelsat Jackson Subsidiaries Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenue									1,999,129	2,160,251	2,281,348
Operating expenses:
Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization)									264,587	241,603	257,999
Selling, general and administrative									137,488	125,494	131,874
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles										4,165,400
Depreciation and amortization									676,542	654,784	644,597
Total operating expenses									1,078,617	5,187,281	1,034,470
Income (loss) from operations									920,512	(3,027,030)	1,246,878
Interest expense (income), net									183,931	36,059	6,605
Subsidiary income (loss)									9,869	11,983	14,729
Other income (expense), net									1,812	(5,136)	2,770
Income (loss) before income taxes									748,262	(3,056,242)	1,257,772
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									12,290	(1,885)	17,268
Net income (loss)									735,972	(3,054,357)	1,240,504
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									735,972	(3,054,357)	1,240,504
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders										(3,054,357)	1,240,504
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenue									562,372	554,831	592,317
Operating expenses:
Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization)									452,899	449,274	491,460
Selling, general and administrative									79,083	65,143	57,493
Depreciation and amortization									18,349	32,945	34,754
Total operating expenses									550,331	547,362	583,707
Income (loss) from operations									12,041	7,469	8,610
Interest expense (income), net									(9,505)	(8,057)	(382)
Other income (expense), net									3,808	(10,568)	(5,461)
Income (loss) before income taxes									25,354	4,958	3,531
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									3,811	3,381	5,557
Net income (loss)									21,543	1,577	(2,026)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest									(3,915)	(3,934)	(3,974)
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									17,628	(2,357)	(6,000)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders										(2,357)	(6,000)
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenue									(2,375,520)	(2,522,796)	(2,682,610)
Operating expenses:
Direct costs of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization)									(640,926)	(603,979)	(659,110)
Selling, general and administrative									(134,239)	(125,661)	(132,025)
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles										(4,165,400)
Depreciation and amortization									(676,542)	(654,784)	(644,597)
Total operating expenses									(1,451,707)	(5,549,824)	(1,435,732)
Income (loss) from operations									(923,813)	3,027,028	(1,246,878)
Interest expense (income), net									(183,991)	(36,059)	(6,605)
Gain on early extinguishment of debt									(679,130)
Subsidiary income (loss)									(2,232,032)	7,495,733	(825,141)
Other income (expense), net									(1,812)	5,136	(2,768)
Income (loss) before income taxes									(2,294,536)	10,563,956	(2,068,182)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									(12,290)	1,885	(17,268)
Net income (loss)									(2,282,246)	10,562,071	(2,050,914)
Net income (loss) attributable to Intelsat, S.A.									$ (2,282,246)	10,562,071	(2,050,914)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders										$ 10,562,071	$ (2,050,914)

Supplemental Consolidating F105

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information - Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	$ 683,506	$ 910,031	$ 1,046,170
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest)	(714,570)	(724,362)	(645,424)
Purchase of cost method investment	(4,000)	(25,000)
Capital contributions to unconsolidated affiliates	(10,340)
Other investing activities	(1,679)	8	174
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(730,589)	(749,354)	(645,250)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from drawdown of long-term debt	1,250,000	430,000	135,000
Repayments of long-term debt	(328,944)	(496,829)	(610,418)
Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt	(32)		(21,250)
Debt issuance costs	(38,393)
Payments on tender, debt exchange and consent transaction	(293,276)
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders	(4,959)	(9,919)	(9,919)
Other payments for satellites	(18,333)
Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives	(17,429)	(19,568)	(19,774)
Capital contribution from noncontrolling interest			12,209
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest	(8,980)	(8,423)	(8,744)
Other financing activities	1,942	1,753	3,893
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	541,596	(102,986)	(519,003)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(30)	(9,297)	(6,560)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	494,483	48,394	(124,643)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	171,541	123,147	247,790
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	666,024	171,541	123,147
Intelsat S.A. and Other Parent Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	(10,234)	724	(1,366)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans	4,895	9,538	9,214
Investment in subsidiaries	(6,087)	(7,355)	(3,790)
Dividend from affiliates		19,000	8,300
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(1,192)	21,183	13,724
Cash flows from financing activities:
Disbursements for intercompany loans		(1,430)	(4,233)
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders	(4,959)	(9,919)	(9,919)
Other financing activities		154	4,231
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(4,959)	(11,195)	(9,921)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(4)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(16,389)	10,712	2,437
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	16,941	6,229	3,792
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	552	16,941	6,229
Intelsat Luxembourg [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	89,342	(251,879)	(270,171)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investment in subsidiaries	(300,050)	(610,000)
Dividend from affiliates	269,700	898,400	279,400
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(30,350)	288,400	279,400
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt		(17,829)
Dividends to shareholders		(19,000)	(8,300)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(36,829)	(8,300)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	58,992	(308)	929
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	760	1,068	139
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	59,752	760	1,068
Intelsat Connect Finance S.A [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	4,764
Cash flows from financing activities:
Debt issuance costs	(15,562)
Payments on tender, debt exchange and consent transaction	(259,267)
Capital contribution from parent	300,050
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	25,221
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	29,985
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	29,985
Intelsat Jackson [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	917,923	1,138,747	1,253,342
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest)	(699,213)	(720,273)	(639,603)
Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans		2,064	3,873
Investment in subsidiaries	(30,655)	(198)	(194)
Dividend from affiliates	8,980	28,423	33,943
Purchase of cost method investment	(4,000)	(25,000)
Other investing activities		432	174
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(724,888)	(714,552)	(601,807)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from drawdown of long-term debt	1,250,000	430,000	135,000
Repayments of long-term debt	(328,944)	(479,000)	(586,000)
Disbursements for intercompany loans	(364,132)	337,261	(9,214)
Payment of premium on early extinguishment of debt	(32)		(21,250)
Debt issuance costs	(26,133)
Payments on tender, debt exchange and consent transaction	(34,009)
Other payments for satellites	(18,333)
Capital contribution from parent		250,000
Dividends to shareholders	(269,700)	(898,400)	(279,400)
Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives	(17,429)	(18,405)	(18,705)
Other financing activities	1,942	1,600	(338)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	193,230	(376,944)	(779,907)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(999)	(925)	(1,085)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	385,266	46,326	(129,457)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	109,959	63,633	193,090
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	495,225	109,959	63,633
Intelsat Jackson Subsidiaries Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	1,506,746	1,629,412	1,887,340
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest)	(699,213)	(720,273)	(639,603)
Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans		2,064	3,873
Investment in subsidiaries	(10,955)	(40,444)	(194)
Dividend from affiliates	8,980	28,423	33,943
Purchase of cost method investment	(4,000)	(25,000)
Other investing activities		432	174
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(705,188)	(754,798)	(601,807)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Disbursements for intercompany loans	(12,438)
Other payments for satellites	(18,333)
Capital contribution from parent	96,658	86,316	103,698
Dividends to shareholders	(524,327)	(916,697)	(1,473,781)
Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives	(17,429)	(18,405)	(18,705)
Other financing activities		1,600	(338)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(475,869)	(847,186)	(1,389,126)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(991)	(931)	(1,063)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	324,698	26,497	(104,656)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	89,641	63,144	167,800
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	414,339	89,641	63,144
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	(314,986)	22,438	64,363
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest)	(15,357)	(4,089)	(5,821)
Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans	359,237	(346,799)
Capital contributions to unconsolidated affiliates	(10,340)
Other investing activities	(1,679)	(424)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	331,861	(351,312)	(5,821)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt			(24,418)
Disbursements for intercompany loans		(634)	360
Capital contribution from parent	36,742	367,553	3,984
Dividends to shareholders	(8,980)	(28,423)	(33,943)
Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives		(1,163)	(1,069)
Capital contribution from noncontrolling interest			12,209
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest	(8,980)	(8,423)	(8,744)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	18,782	328,910	(51,621)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	972	(8,372)	(5,473)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	36,629	(8,336)	1,448
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	43,881	52,217	50,769
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	80,510	43,881	52,217
Consolidation and Eliminations [Member]
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:	(1,510,049)	(1,629,411)	(1,887,338)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for satellites and other property and equipment (including capitalized interest)	699,213	720,273	639,603
Repayment from (disbursements for) intercompany loans	(364,132)	333,133	(16,960)
Investment in subsidiaries	347,747	657,997	4,178
Dividend from affiliates	(287,660)	(974,246)	(355,586)
Purchase of cost method investment	4,000	25,000
Other investing activities		(432)	(174)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	399,168	761,725	271,061
Cash flows from financing activities:
Disbursements for intercompany loans	376,570	(335,197)	13,087
Debt issuance costs	3,302
Other payments for satellites	18,333
Capital contribution from parent	(433,450)	(703,869)	(107,682)
Dividends to shareholders	803,007	1,862,520	1,795,424
Principal payments on deferred satellite performance incentives	17,429	18,405	18,705
Other financing activities		(1,601)	338
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	785,191	840,258	1,719,872
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	992	931	1,061
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(324,698)	(26,497)	104,656
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	(89,641)	(63,144)	(167,800)
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ (414,339)	$ (89,641)	$ (63,144)

Schedule II - Valuation and Qua

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) - Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation allowance, Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 37,178	$ 35,174	$ 35,288
Valuation allowance, Charged to Costs and Expenses	24,591	7,432	2,306
Valuation allowance, Deductions	(7,025)	(5,428)	(2,420)
Valuation allowance, Balance at End of Period	$ 54,744	$ 37,178	$ 35,174