United Arab Emirates | October 25, 2011 – SR Technics has signed a contract with Panasonic Avionics for the installation of Panasonic’s new in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) system, the Ku-band satellite-based global communications suite (GCS).

The agreement covers the modification of the Gulf Air Airbus A330 and A320 family fleet comprising 30 aircraft as well as the modification of a Middle Eastern airline’s A319. The new GCS system offers wireless high-speed broadband Internet access for WLAN-enabled laptops and smart phones, and GSM mobile phone service.

Under the agreement work started in September 2011 and will take one and a half years to complete. All work will be carried out in Zurich. Future opportunities will be reviewed, following this initial installation program.

SR Technics is the first turnkey solution provider for the installation of the new GCS system. The MRO service provider is developing new capabilities and design standards in IFEC modifications, an area that is both strategically important and where SR Technics can leverage its expertise, know-how and highest quality standards to further support customers as these systems evolve.

“We are pleased to be working with Panasonic as their preferred turnkey solution provider for their new state-of-the-art GCS. With our skills and experience we can ensure on-time delivery of all modification work, in line with Panasonic’s high quality standards,” says Sean O’Connor, General Manager for SR Technics America Inc.

“Additionally, the airlines can use the opportunity to combine the GCS installation with other maintenance and component services requirements. In that way, we help our industry partners enhance their asset utilization.”

Airline Offers Real-Time, Uninterrupted Telecast Of News Channels & Live Football Games

MANAMA, BAHRAIN– October 12, 2011 -– Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, today took delivery of its first A330-200 aircraft retrofitted with Panasonic Avionics Corporation‟s (Panasonic) Global Communications Suite. The comprehensive communications and entertainment solution, “Sky Hub‟, offers passengers onboard full broadband connectivity to access internet, mobile phone services and, for the first time in the world, a global, live television service onboard. The Panasonic‟s Global Communications Suite is being installed across Gulf Air‟s entire fleet of aircraft progressively.

Unveiling the „Sky Hub‟ onboard the aircraft today to the media and senior Bahrain civil aviation officials, Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Mr. Samer Majali said, “It is another important milestone in our customer service journey as we unveil our latest inflight entertainment system, „Sky Hub‟ on our fleet.”

“We are bringing to you, for the first time in the world, fully integrated broadband connectivity offering high speed internet with high speed Wi-Fi and data services, voice over the internet (VOIP), streaming videos and the world’s first in-flight live TV satellite stream across continents.”
He added, “In tune with the fast-paced economy, Gulf Air is providing the fastest, affordable and unlimited internet and mobile access onboard for our customers to stay fully connected in the air and, we are pleased to be the first in the industry to offer our customers a connected airline”.

I am sure this avant-garde, cutting-edge technology will fundamentally change our passengers‟ communications and entertainment experience onboard setting a new standard for in-flight entertainment,” Mr. Majali concluded.

Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer for Panasonic Avionics Corporation said, “We are very excited and honored to have helped Gulf Air become the first carrier in the world to offer a truly amazing passenger entertainment experience with broadband connectivity for high speed internet access, mobile voice and data services, and a live television service that includes some of the world‟s most popular news programming and live sporting events.”

Using Panasonic’s Global Communications Suite, Gulf Air will offer two-way broadband connectivity at speeds of up to 50 Mbps to the aircraft, enabling faster browsing, chatting and other internet based services. Gulf Air will offer deeply immersive, content-rich entertainment in addition to live, uninterrupted television services on routes across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Travelers will no longer have to wait in anxiety until they land to find out scores from their favorite sporting events or news from around the world. Now they can watch their favorite football teams on IMG Media‟s Barclays Premier League channel or keep up with world events on favorite news channels such as BBC World News, BBC Arabic and Euronews.

Passengers also will be able to browse the web at broadband speeds, and access social media services such as Facebook and Twitter. In addition, business travelers can access their virtual private network (VPN) to send and receive emails while watching live-news and stock market updates at 35,000 feet. They simply need to turn on their personal device, connect to the in- flight Wi-Fi network, and log into the service through Deutsche Telekom, the wireless internet service provider onboard.

Olivier Baujard, Chief Technology Officer of Deutsche Telekom commented, “We are excited about our future collaboration with Gulf Air. Together, we can now offer a new and bigger international group of customers the use of high-speed Internet access also in the sky. The expansion of our Wi-Fi offering is an important element in the development of our networks and in addressing the demands of the Gigabit-Society. It also provides further proof of Deutsche Telekom’s innovation leadership.”

Panasonic‟s mobile voice and data service, offered in collaboration with AeroMobile’s award winning in-flight mobile phone technology, will enable passengers to use their mobile phone, Smartphone or BlackBerry device to call, text, email, browse the internet and use other applications throughout the flight. They will also be able to use GSM-enabled tablets and laptops to go online in flight.

Pal Bjordal, CEO of AeroMobile, says: “AeroMobile is delighted to be supporting this world first from Gulf Air – our 10th customer. With many roaming partners throughout the Middle East, we‟re perfectly positioned to help their passengers stay in touch whilst in the air.”

Panasonic: The Panasonic team showed up and caught our eye in three areas – Wireless, eX3 product line, and the ‘Cool Room’. Enhancements to the basic line of eX3 IFE products include a new seat electronics box we called “the turtle” because it looks like one. Incredibly, the carbon fiber or metallic impregnated plastic box fits in the palm of you hand and between the struts of an aircraft seats – it uses up zero leg room and foot space! We saw a pre-production model and this box will change SEB’s forever. We got a look at their eX Lite Server and there is a real technology story here. While we don’t have space to talk about it in this installment, the box uses 128 GB of SDXC memory! There also was an 802.11N wireless system entry that looked to be the next logical growth for the “eX” Series, and of course, the ‘Cool Room’. While there seemed to be a waning of interest to include the room in future conventions from Panasonic executives, IFExpress still finds this the heart of new development product potential at any IFEC show. Yep, we love it. the 3D flat screen display with touch controls blew us away. There is not enough space to laud Steve Sizelove and his team’s efforts to go where no other vendor has gone before. BTW, weren’t those iPads on a trolly. Hmm?

ITAN: Leave it up to Michael Rogerson to provide a real upgrade to his IFEC offerings. We were knocked out by the new technology in his latest building block modular IFEC system. Called the “A-Series ARM” and based on the Android operating system, Michael and his team have jumped into the latest vendor offerings as an equal. Using 5 (or so) modules, customers use them and ITAN’s app offerings to build a system that covers audio, video, data, Wi-Fi, and whatever else is needed for entertainment. Michael claims that now, users can plug into the ARM seat unit and get data, power and media – all with no server. While an admitted bizjet natural, the ITAN hardware is definitely suited for single aisle operation in the commercial space. Watch this one.

LiveTV: We will say it again: “Mike Moeller is one of the best Sales and Marketing dudes in the IFE industry.” The LiveTV cost per bit analysis is a story we will cover in an upcoming Hot Topic but suffice it to say, Moeller coined the phrase “Not all Ka Band Service is the same” and his analysis is one that needs to be understood by the IFE world. As Moeller put it, “Data costs are exceeding the price charged per passenger.” His message: delivering data to airline customers depends on the system, the data rate, the antenna capability and the aircraft location. His approach grows and adapts the jetBlue system and keeps costs in line. Without a doubt, clever xponder buying is also a must, but we will save that for later.

Lumexis: One lesson we learned from Lumexis – there are some 21 different platforms for PED’s and that really drives the need for a monitor at each seat. They plan on true 1080p HD for their next generation of systems. They claim that they can deliver true HD to all customers on any size plane at the same time. With fiber optics, bandwidth never seems to be an issue. We were told that Lumexis is concentrating on their first customers; however, there is another in the wings and we anticipate an announcement AIX 2012.

VT Miltope: As the OEM to many Wi-Fi and network-based systems, the military and commercial box and system manufacturer rolled out their new, small (in size only) 10/100/1000 Based Server Unit (NSUI). The 2 MCU box has a minimum 160 GB SSD, 1.8 GHz Athalon dual core processor. All this and a new president too!

Trends
OK, you say, what does all this new IFE stuff add up to? The trends we spotted seem to echo the past but because of newer technology, there are new directions and evolutions noted below.

The “seat focused” IFE concept is in full throttle. At least 5 vendors used the term “seat-centric” in their presentations and as many more exhibited that concept in their product design. In a sentence, putting the electronics and content at the seat improves the reliability and passenger experience. Accordingly, the centralized control of content and programming is on the decline. Boeing and Airbus, we understand, are not fans of this approach as they loose some control of the IFE platform and is less flexible in their eyes. As a result, it may be a while before line-fit approval is secured.

We hear there is no end to the need for connectivity with the Smartphone as one of the favorite and upcoming targets for content and data – but you knew that. Wi-Fi is the medium of choice and the folks at Gogo have proven that connectivity or no-connectivity is just a matter of cost/price. They are also proving that streaming wireless is here today and more of this trend is in the works with almost all system suppliers. Additionally, while not cheap, Wi-Fi reduces weight and wires. Watch the Virgin America/Lufthansa deal as a precursor of things to come.

Understandably, Early Window content is pretty much ruled out for PED’s in the above mentioned Wi-Fi systems but with Early Window content being squeezed down to 30 days or less, what is the big deal? And by the way, when will Google or Microsoft front, or reduce, Wi-Fi user costs?

SSDs are here with most opting for 128 MB. But by next year, 256 MB will be the norm and the year after, one terabyte will be common. Don’t know what an SSD is? Try Wikipedia.

While not a trend yet, card swiping (PIN and chip) is on it’s way. Just as the Smartphone resonated with travelers, easy payments are a demand driver. While prevalent in Europe, the use in the US and elsewhere will come slowly. Watch the innovators like IFPL, AIRVOD, ITAN, and PlaneBill.

There are a lot of small vendors with incredibly good product and product ideas. This can only mean that next year as budgets tighten, there is a good chance for industry consolidation. We smell mergers and acquisitions (M&A)!

In the content world, there seems to be a shift away from the tennis shoe network toward more automated and wireless content update. Mind you, it is not here yet but lots of folks are working the problem vigorously.

Finally, Ka Band connectivity was on everybody’s lips. As LiveTV put it – “Not all Ka is the same!”

Based on the above, the APEX TC in November (8 & 9) looks to be a ‘Do Not Miss’ event. Here are the topics – Airline & Studio Perspectives on Future Technologies,  Connectivity, Wireless IFE, HD Standardization,HD/File-Based Workflow, Interoperable Master Format, Cabin Trends, Chip & PIN for PCI Compliance, ARNIC 791 Satcom Update, Ka-band Radome Status. 

Each year, for the last umpteen years, IFExpress has delivered readers a show preview based on a published invitation to all. This year is no different and we urge all attendees to be sure to visit their booth and tell them IFExpress sent you!

Company: Astronics AES
Booth: 701
Contact: Dennis Markert / dennis.markert@astronics.com / 425 442 8195

Astronics AES will be displaying their latest product addition to the world leading EmPower(R) In-Seat Power Systems (ISPS) product line. The new EmPower(R) In-Seat Power Supply produces an industry leading 200VA for each Personal Electronic Device (PED) and includes three Universal Serial Bus (USB) power outputs for passenger devices such as smart phones, iPods, cameras, and other standard +5 Volt DC devices. This is all accomplished in a smaller form factor than previous generations of the industry leading EmPower(R) product line.

Company: digEcor
Booth: 627
Contact: Adam Williams / awilliams@digEcor.com

DIGECOR HIGHLIGHTS: We will showcase the digEplayer L7, which airlines around the world have rapidly adopted, as a low cost yet rugged and feature rich IFE solution. Airlines can also find out more about In-flight Content Services, including the ability to support handhelds, overheads, and AVOD systems independent of a digEplayer agreement. Interested in Ancillary Revenue? We’ve been a long time supporter. Our customers have been generating revenue and operating self-sustaining IFE programs for years. So stop by our booth and chat with us about rental programs, shopping solutions, and advertising. We may not have a cool and highly publicized theme for the show, but if we did, it would probably be, “Come for the coffee, stay for the movies.”

Company: Goodrich
Booth number 1309
Contact Dan Vargas / dan.vargas@goodrich.com / (323) 837-2717

Goodrich digital video reproducers (VRUs) are a cost-effective way to update existing tape systems for an enhanced passenger entertainment experience. Be certain to stop by and visit us during APEX.

Company: IFPL
Booth#: 819
Contact: Claire Underwoord / claire.underwood@ifpl.com

Near Field Communication Demo
IFPL has developed an interface between NFC and IFE systems. This takes the mobile wallet concept onto aircraft and addresses the security issues of high value payments. The system on show can be used in a number of ways: as chip and pin; with NFC enabled ‘connect’ cards and with NFC enabled mobile ‘phones. This opens up a range of possibilities from renting movies, buying drinks and food and accessing destination information (i.e. increasing advertising revenue).

Self-testing jack
Currently airline maintenance personnel have to plug a headset into each audio jack to check it is receiving sound. This is time consuming and therefore costly and inefficient in short turnaround times. The self-testing jack has an LED that shows it is receiving a signal, meaning that all personnel have to do is play the IFE and walk through the cabin, spotting faulty jacks at a glance. The really clever thing about this jack is that is does not need any extra power to the seat to work, the light draws power from the audio signal.

Breakaway jack
IFPL’s highly reliable Long Life jack (tested to 100,000 insertions) has been developed to have a 90˚ pull out feature. This means that if a passenger stands up without removing their headset, it will pull away at any angle, without breaking the pin. IFPL has worked with headset suppliers to produce headsets with a smaller pin at the same cost as regular headsets. The breakaway jack will still accept a regular pin if necessary. IFPL see this as a low cost alternative to magnetic jacks.

Competition
As usual, IFPL will be holding a simple competition on their booth. The prize is a Nikon Coolpix digital projector camera. This neat little camera allows immediate projection of your photos onto any flat white surface.

We’re pleased to announce that IFPL will be showcasing an extra product at the APEX show next week!
The “Self Testing Audio Jack” is a neat solution to a common problem. Maintenance personnel have to walk the aircraft with a headset and plug it in to each audio jack at every seat to check that the audio is working. This is a time consuming job, and often means that seats don’t always get tested before a turnaround. Our new product is simple – it has a built-in LED that illuminates when audio is present. A quick scan of the seats tells you whether the jacks are working or not. This means you can go straight to any faulty jacks without wasting time checking every one manually. This simple device will improve IFE Availability and save airlines time and money. The really clever part is that this device doesn’t require power, or batteries – it runs off the audio supply! So, if you want to retrofit an old IFE system without power at the seat, it couldn’t be easier.

Just another reason to come and see us on booth 819 during the APEX show. Hope to see you this week!

Company: The IMS Company
Booth 1210
Contact: Harry Gray, vice president sales & marketing / hgray@imsco-us.com

Building up a head of steam at last spring’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX), seat-centric IFE has become a juggernaut and none more so than The IMS Company’s RAVE™ with a backlog of more than 50 aircraft awaiting installation in 2011. If all of the options these orders are activated, the number of aircraft more than doubles. With Lufthansa, airberlin, SriLankan and Brussels Airlines onboard, additional announcements are expected at the Conference—bringing the total to seven or more.

But seat-centric IFE is not all that IMS is up to nowadays. Its new EDGE portables focus on Android OS as a platform that can support multiple versions of tablets. Look for announcements during the Conference.

Company: Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Booth: 301
Contact: Please stop by the Panasonic booth to arrange a tour or set up an appointment.

PANASONIC AVIONICS HIGHLIGHTS: At this year’s APEX Expo, Panasonic Avionics Corporation will be unveiling the three newest members of its X Series family. During the show, attendees are also invited to stop by the Panasonic booth for a chance to ask our eXPerts questions about the most exciting topics in IFEC today including seat centric vs. server-based architectures, Ka vs. Ku, and more. In addition, we are pleased to once again showcase our Cool Room where we’ll demonstrate how some of the most cutting-edge products in the consumer market can be applied to IFEC.

Company: PlaneBill
Booth: 850
Contact: Massimo De Sanctis / Mob: +39 335 222908 / Massimo.DeSanctis@planebill.com

On board portals for passengers (JetPortal) and for crew (CrewPortal).

PlaneApps for the emerging mobile platforms, Apple iOS, Google Android, Microsoft/Nokia Windows Phone 7, RIM QNX. Apps for smartphones (iPhone/iPod/iPad, Android phones and windows phone 7) and tablets (iPad, Android tablets) will be on show.

Before flight data crawler (DataCatering) for flight location based Services (origin/destination). Data mining to provide airline with useful information captured during flight on passengers devices,services, messages, behavior and feedback PlaneRoaming for reaching passengers on their mobile number without a cellular infrastructure.

Company: Rockwell Collins
Booth# 1001
Contact: Kelly Holland / 949-872-3308 (mobile) / klholla1@rockwellcollins.com

Rockwell Collins plans to unveil a new IFE solution for the single-aisle market tomorrow at APEX that will deliver unprecedented versatility for airlines and maximum reliability for passengers. The company also plans to announce stunning enhancements to its dPAVES IFE system, and a new entertainment solution for the regional jet market. Stop by Rockwell Collins’ exhibit to learn more about these new offerings and solutions to enhance the passenger experience.

Company: THALES
Booth#: 1401
Contact: Suzane Treneer / suzane.treneer@us.thalesgroup.com

THALES HIGHLIGHTS: CONNECT, NETWORK, PLAY is the Thales theme this year with focus on the Passenger Experience. Thales will be making significant announcements around in the air and on the ground wireless connectivity. Center stage will be the latest addition to the TopSeries product family, TopSeries AVANT. Installed into a new premium class Contour seat, TopSeries AVANT will include some future system navigation and audio concepts. Other demos include system integration into B/E Aerospace, Weber and Recaro economy seats. In the B/E Seat is a new innovative arm mount designed by Bucher. The up and coming new Thales Application Portal will be featured as well as future modules for Passenger Electronic Device interface capabilities.

Company: TriaGnoSys
Booth# 829
Contact: Charlie Pryor / +44 (0) 20 7031 8270 / charlie.pryor@leidar.com

TriaGnoSys and Siemens CMT have today launched IFEConneX, a complete inflight entertainment and communication (IFEC) solution. It incorporates an entertainment and media distribution system into the TriaGnoSys inflight GSM solution, GSMConneX, which was launched at Aircraft Interiors in April 2011. The lightweight modular system provides three services: GSM, WLAN and wireless streaming of IFE content, enabling business jet operators to combine the three services.

IFEConneX enables passengers to use their own mobile phone, tablet or laptop for calls, text messaging, emails, Internet connectivity, and for Audio and Video On Demand (AVOD). The solution has the capacity to stream individual content to up to 100 passengers simultaneously.

Company: VT Miltope
Booth: 1301
Contact Name: Jeff Drader / jdrader@miltope.com / 949 752 8191

Miltope’s family of network products offer the required functionality necessary to create custom airborne networks similar to how office networks are created. Designed to be readily expanded, they may be configured to define a network that optimizes the combination of interfaces and computing resources to meet the operational, spatial, and functional requirements of simple to complex airborne networks at a minimum cost. Products include servers, Ethernet switches and routers, 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless access points, TWLU wireless bridging from an aircraft LAN to a ground LAN, ARINC 744 network printers and ARINC740 cockpit printer, cabin control panels, and data storage devices.

Editors Note: We thought Seattle visitors might like a bit more info on restaurants and we suggest visiting the Yelp website. While there are too many to name here, IFExpress has heard a few “WOW” comments on the following:
Within walking distance to the Conference:
RN 74 – 1433 4th Ave. (4th & Pike), Regional French Cuisine, 206 457 7474
Driving Distance from the Conference:
Revel – 403 N 36th St., Fremont District, Korean Fusion, 206 547 2040
Walrus & Carpenter – 4743 Ballard Ave. NW, American Seafood, 206 395 9227

The Aircraft Interiors mash-up in Hamburg ended this past week with some very interesting and unpredicted trends in the IFE space. For sure, the move toward smaller, thinner, lighter and more capable electronics was present. Second, third, and fourth generation electronics were claimed in the thin seat/thin and smart IFE world. Without a doubt, this is the trend of the next round of seatback/seat hardware. We really liked the Thales product!

There were a number of R&D projects almost ready for prime time: A wireless seat power development project that claimed 97% efficiency from KID (isn’t that better than wire?); a really great in-seat power supply design concept (Recaro and KID), which removed the seat power box and placed it in a central seat tube; a rapid prototyping capability for seat peripheral products (IFPC); a new, simple, content aggregation software from an Italian supplier; a new satcom/radio software data reduction algorithm that lops 40% of the overhead budget (TriaGnoSys); a new line of inflight hardware from a predominantly portable IFE supplier; a big sale for one fiber-optic IFE provider; two new seat power boxes; a 65” LCD Display; and so much more.

There is a big deal underway in IFE gatelink data that promises to expand ground-based IFE/airplane data that may finally automate that last node on the airline networks – the aircraft. It may do so by the build-up of ground-based networking…not in-flight connectivity. This offering looks like another SITA or ARINC and may incorporate their efforts as well. We will report on this project in the upcoming weeks.

iPad, iPad, iPad is all we heard about. No less that 8 vendors at the Hamburg Show had them in their booth. One even professed that it will be used as an inflight IFE offering. We do not know how it will ever pass DO-160 specifications so that rules out an imbedded application, but hope springs eternal. Additionally, the unit still stumbles with the lack of file handling capabilities and multitasking…not to mention security issues around file encryption. One rumor on the floor placed a major movie distributer in the booth of one vendor claiming they must print a retraction to an earlier news release claiming iPad first run movies? You can believe what you may but you heard it here first.

On the road, we wanted to give a tip-of-the-hat to Seattle Tacoma International Airport for their much appreciated, free Wi-Fi offered to all travelers. In an interview, the airport claimed that it costs them easily over $100,000 each year given the fees and royalties paid by service providers. Airports are not friendly places any more, but the folks at SeaTac deserve mention.

We hear Alaska Airlines will be offering introductory free Go-go Wi-Fi service till July 31, this year.

While air travel to and from the Hamburg show was nothing short of madness, thanks to the Icelandic volcano, we worry about the long-term impact on European air travel and airlines. Having experienced the absolute breakdown of one airline’s ability to manage the emergency we wonder if there are any management solutions to random weather emergencies? One thing for sure, it is going to cost us all more to fly!

LAKE FOREST, California – 29 March 2010 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, today announced a new strategic agreement with Deutsche Telekom. Under terms of the new arrangement, Deutsche Telekom with its T-Mobile brand will be the preferred wireless internet service provider for Panasonic Avionics’ Global Communications Suite.

“Panasonic is excited to announce our new relationship with Deutsche Telekom because we believe that the T-Mobile brand offers the perfect complement to our Global Communications Suite,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “T-Mobile is an established, best-in-class brand that offers an impressive portfolio of global roaming agreements and an excellent experience in terms of customer care, billing and support. In fact, in many instances, T-Mobile and its roaming partners already enjoy strong relationships with many of the same passengers that the airlines and Panasonic intend to serve. By combining these T-Mobile advantages with the unique connectivity capabilities of our Global Communications suite, Panasonic and Deutsche Telekom have the potential to offer airline passengers and crew an unmatched experience in broadband internet, data and voice communications.”

“Joining forces with Panasonic Avionics Corporation in the field of in-flight connectivity and bringing in our expertise of customer insights and telecommunication trends opens huge opportunities for both partners,” says Philipp Humm, Chief Regional Officer Europe of Deutsche Telekom. “We are looking forward to a successful future and to elevate communication services to new heights.”

Panasonic’s Global Communications Suite provides high-speed broadband internet, data and voice communications services to passengers and crew, using a GSM or Wi-Fi -enabled device. Under the terms of this new agreement, Deutsche Telekom will manage the internet gateway and handle passenger billing and customer support for Wi-Fi services. In addition, Deutsche Telekom will provide marketing and promotional support to drive utilization of the services.

The Panasonic Global Communications Suite can be used as a stand-alone service or be integrated with the aircraft’s existing IFEC system. It offers airlines the flexibility to provide passenger connectivity through passenger-paid access to the Internet or through advertising-supported content and sponsored Internet sessions. The Global Communications Suite supports popular passenger online activities, such as accessing corporate VPNs or intranets, browsing the Web, personal e-mail and instant messaging, social networking and online shopping.

LAKE FOREST, California – 11 March 2010 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, was selected as a Mercury Award winner at the International Travel Catering Association (ITCA) 2010 Conference in Cologne, Germany. Panasonic was chosen in the Inspirations category for FlightPath™, a conceptual interactive platform designed to engage passengers and drive the onboard food and beverage experience.

“We are always striving to enhance the onboard experience in creative new ways. FlightPath elevates the passenger dining experience while enhancing revenue opportunities and improving workflow for the cabin crew,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “It is gratifying to have ITCA recognize our innovative approach to in-flight catering needs, particularly while FlightPath is still in the development stage.”

FlightPath works with the aircraft’s IFEC system to offer an event-driven, content-rich seatback environment, where the passenger’s meal and beverage options are personalized, and presented within a visual in-flight timeline to the destination.

Within FlightPath, passengers can take advantage of targeted advertising and shopping opportunities, either for in-flight, home, or at-gate delivery. In addition, passengers can engage with crew members, friends, and family using FlightPath’s communication applications, for food pairing recommendations or even a virtual wine tasting event.

The passenger’s interactive experience can be further extended to include tourist information, virtual shopping centers or even booking restaurant reservations all from 40,000 feet. FlightPath seamlessly integrates with applications to provide airlines a complete food, beverage and entertainment solution.

The Mercury Award is the most prestigious award in travel catering worldwide. Established in 1981, the Mercury Award has six categories, including: On Board Service, Food or Beverage, Equipment, Skills Development, Systems and Process Development and Inspiration. ITCA is a global association with more than 700 members, representing caterers as well as suppliers of products and equipment for airline, sea and rail operators.

Lake Forest, California – February 4, 2010 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, today announced that its eX2 in-flight entertainment and communications (IFEC) system was installed cabin-wide on Sichuan Airlines’ new A330 aircraft to enter into service on 09 February 2010.
 
A significant milestone for both Panasonic and Sichuan Airlines, the eX2 equipped A330 aircraft is the airline’s first audio and video on demand (AVOD)-equipped aircraft. At the same time, Sichuan Airlines is the first Panasonic customer in mainland China to adopt the eX2 system cabin-wide onboard. The addition of Panasonic’s eX2 IFEC system cabin-wide positions Sichuan Airlines as an innovator in the Chinese market with strategic, long-term vision for their IFEC strategy, and provides its passengers with a superior travel experience.
 
The Panasonic eX2 IFEC system provides an exciting, interactive experience cabin-wide with AVOD at every seat. Sichuan Airlines will have the ability to offer the ultimate experience and interactive entertainment on this platform. Panasonic’s eX2 IFEC system was developed based on extensive research and market trends, and can be customized for immediate results and optimized for long-term value to the airline and its passengers.
 
“Panasonic Avionics is proud to welcome Sichuan Airlines as a new customer,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer for Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “With the eX2 system, Sichuan Airlines is breaking new ground and taking their commitment to providing a superior passenger experience to the next level by offering unprecedented options for China’s air travelers to enjoy in-flight entertainment.”
 
Sichuan Airlines, headquartered in Chengdu, Sichuan in the People’s Republic of China, operates over 51 aircraft to 50 destinations across the globe. Based at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport and Kunming Wujiaba International Airport, Sichuan Airlines has the largest Airbus fleet in southwestern China.
 
“Sichuan Airlines’ decision to install eX2 in-flight entertainment cabin-wide represents a very significant and innovative milestone for China, and makes them an important airline to watch due to their desire to provide passengers with the latest IFEC interactive experiences the market has to offer,” said Charles Ogilvie, Executive Director of China for Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “Sichuan Airline’s pioneering spirit sets the stage for the company’s long-term vision for customer satisfaction and growth opportunities in the region. Panasonic is committed to serving the Chinese travel market and we’re honored to be working with Sichuan Airlines.”
 
“We chose the Panasonic eX2 system because it has the most innovative features and the richest functionality that will engage and excite our passengers,” said Lan Xinguo, Chairman for Sichuan Airlines. “By being the first to install eX2 in mainland China, Sichuan Airlines will certainly differentiate our brand in China’s rapidly growing transportation industry. We aim to lead our market with passenger satisfaction, and expect that the addition of Panasonic’s eX2 system will create greater customer loyalty for our airline.”

LAKE FOREST, Calif., Feb. 5 / — Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), a world leading in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) solutions provider and AeroMobile, Panasonic’s chosen in-flight mobile technology supplier, today announced that they have been selected by Turkish Airlines, a Star Alliance Member, to supply the carrier with Panasonic’s eX2 In-Flight Entertainment and Global Communications Suite product.

Panasonic offers airlines complete, integrated solutions for in-flight entertainment and connectivity. With the installation of Panasonic’s advanced eX2 In-Flight Entertainment and Global Communications Suite, Turkish Airlines’ passengers will have a full complement of in-flight entertainment and communication options available at their fingertips.

Passengers will be able to choose from a large selection of movies, television programs, music and advanced applications including:

• eXConnect: Global, true broadband connectivity to support a wide range of passenger and crew applications, such as internet access, corporate VPN, voice, data, and the ability to monitor and transmit airline operational data in real time

• eXPhone: Award-winning in-flight mobile phone service to make voice calls, send SMS text messages, or utilize data services in-flight, virtually anywhere in the world

• The Panasonic Airborne Television Network: A proprietary, dedicated network broadcasting live news, sports, financial information and special events.

Panasonic’s eX2 and Global Communications Suite solutions are being fitted on the airline’s fleet of 12 Boeing 777-300ERs and 10 Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The first aircraft is due to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Temel Kotil, President and Chief Executive Officer of Turkish Airlines, said, “We are delighted to be bringing the latest, state-of-the-art technology to our customers. Panasonic’s eX2 and Global Communications Suite will give us the ability tailor our passengers’ experiences with live broadcast TV, Wi-Fi access for laptops and PDAs, as well as the use of mobile phones.”

Since 2007 the in-flight mobile connectivity technology has been exceptionally well-received. Over one million airline passengers have now used AeroMobile services since inception. On some flights, passenger adoption rates are exceeding 40%.

“We are extremely pleased with Turkish Airlines’ selection of Panasonic’s eX2 and Global Communications Suite system for their aircraft,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “With this decision, Turkish Airlines will be a leader in offering its passengers an integrated in-flight entertainment and communication system that truly raises the bar for in-flight experiences.   We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate the start of 2010 than to proudly announce Turkish Airlines as our newest customer for in-flight entertainment, connectivity and mobile phone services.”

Bjorn-Taale Sandberg, Chief Executive Officer of AeroMobile, said, “We are delighted to have been chosen by Turkish Airlines as a key provider in the modernisation of their fleet. This selection once again underlines that AeroMobile is the supplier of choice for the flag-carrying airlines of the world, and demonstrates the versatility and flexibility of our technology in being able to operate over Panasonic’s Ku band system.”

In 2008, Panasonic and AeroMobile won the “Best Achievement in Technology 2008″ award for eXPhone from the World Airline Entertainment Association (WAEA).

LAKE FOREST, California – 05 February 2010 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, today announced it is selected as an IFEC provider for the Airbus A350 XWB.
 
The contract between Airbus and Panasonic was signed at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France on February 4, 2010 by Klaus Richter, EVP of Procurement at Airbus and Paul Margis, CEO at Panasonic Avionics Corporation.
 
Panasonic’s advanced IFEC solutions enable airlines to easily tailor the passenger experience.  Along with full-cabin audio and video on demand (AVOD), passengers will be able to choose from a large selection of movies, television programs, music and advanced applications including:
 
eXPhone – In-flight mobile phones service
eXConnect – Full internet access with corporate VPN support over true broadband
Panasonic Airborne Television Network – Global television solution broadcasting live news and sports

Panasonic also offers airline specific services such as onboard advertising and IFEC usage statistic monitoring, both of which are accessible by airlines though Panasonic’s web-based PAXUS data analysis tool. 
 
“We are proud to extend our relationship with Airbus and be selected to install our in-flight entertainment and communications system equipment on the Airbus A350 XWB flight test aircraft MSN002,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer at Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “As an IFE & Cabin Communications supplier on the Airbus A350 XWB, even more passengers will be able to experience the next generation passenger experience as these new airplanes enter service.”

LAKE FOREST, California – 1 December 2009 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, today announced that Asiana Airlines continues its 17-year relationship with Panasonic by choosing the Panasonic eFX in-flight entertainment (IFE) system for two (2) Airbus A321 aircraft with the first delivery in November 2009.

The Panasonic eFX system is a fully digital system that delivers a full compliment of entertainment options in a sleek, single-aisle package. Passengers aboard Asiana’s A321 aircraft will experience the world-class eFX system using 10.6-inch Smart Monitors in Business Class and a 9-inch Smart Monitors in Economy Class. Business Class seats will also feature premium handsets as well Panasonic’s eXport solution for full integration with passenger iPods(R) devices.

“It has been our pleasure to work with Asiana Airlines in utilizing Panasonic IFE technology as part of their cabin product strategy,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “With the selection of eFX for full-cabin AVOD on their single-aisle aircraft, Asiana advances their commitment to provide a superior passenger experience across their fleet.”

Asiana Airlines has won a list of travel industry best-in-class awards including, “2009 Airline of the Year” and “2008 World’s Best Cabin Staff” by Air Transport World. The airline, with a fleet of 65 aircraft, operates flights serving 66 cities in 21 countries on 82 routes.

Asiana Airlines has been a customer of Panasonic since 1990 and has taken full advantage of Panasonic’s industry-leading IFE systems. The Panasonic eX2 IFE system has been enhancing the passenger experience on four (4) B747-400 and seven (7) B767-300 and two (2) new A330-300 aircraft. Asiana has also installed Panasonic’s System 3000i on five (5) B777-200s, and six (6) A330-300s aircraft.

“Selecting the Panasonic eFX IFE system for the A321 aircraft is the latest step in Asiana Airlines’ strategy to improve passenger entertainment and enjoyment,” said Mr. Kyung-Ha Ma, Executive Vice President, Administration of Asiana Airlines. “In continuing this successful 17-year relationship, Asiana Airlines has once again relied on the experience and industry leadership of Panasonic to deliver IFE technologies for our aircraft.”

LAKE FOREST, California – 17 November 2009 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, announced today at the Dubai Airshow the signing of an agreement with Etihad Airways (Etihad) for 10 B777-300ER, 5 A330-300, and 2 A330-200 aircraft to be equipped with Panasonic’s leading eX2 IFEC system as well as an agreement for a 7-year turnkey service maintenance contract. The first aircraft delivery is expected in December 2009.

Etihad’s eX2 system will feature over 80 movies, 100 Television shows, 60 games, and 500 audio CDs as well as many applications designed to give passengers a superior in-flight entertainment and communications experience including:

· An animated, Flash™ -based game portal including 60 exciting games
· Picture-in-picture for richer interactive experience
· Keyword search within the extensive content listings
· Quick access user interface
· Passenger surveys
· Airport Connecting Gate Information
· Room Service hospitality
· In-seat Telephony
· and more

Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said: “We are extremely proud that Etihad has chosen to extend its relationship with Panasonic to include 17 more aircraft. We constantly strive to provide solutions that not only delight Etihad’s passengers, but provide key elements of Etihad’s business strategy.”

James Hogan, Chief Executive of Etihad Airways, said: “As a long haul premium carrier – and the world’s leading airline – whatever we offer our passengers has to be the best in class.”

“Our customers tell us that in-flight entertainment is a critical part of their enjoyment onboard, so we looked long and hard at the options available to make sure we selected the most modern, user-friendly system. The Panasonic eX2 allows us the flexibility to tailor features and provide our passengers with a more individual in-flight entertainment experience.”

About Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Panasonic Avionics Corporation is the world’s leading supplier of in-flight entertainment and communication systems. The company’s best-in-class solutions, supported by professional maintenance services, fully integrate with the cabin enabling airlines to deliver the ultimate travel experiences with a rich variety of entertainment choices, resulting in improved quality communication systems and solutions, reduced time-to-market and lower overall costs.

Established in 1979, Panasonic Avionics Corporation, a U.S. corporation, is a subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC). Headquartered in Lake Forest, California with over 3,100 employees and operations in 80 locations worldwide, it serves over 200 customers worldwide and provides IFEC systems on over 3,700 aircraft. For additional information, please visit www.panasonic.aero <http://www.panasonic.aero/> .