SIA upgrades IFEC with Panasonic
The solution features full-HD seatback monitors in both the Business Class and Economy Class
Panasonic Avionics Corporation has partnered with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to update the airline’s inflight entertainment and connectivity across the airline’s wide- and narrow-body fleet.
SIA has chosen Panasonic Avionics’ eX1 IFE solution for its fleet of 37 737-8 aircraft. The solution features full-HD seatback monitors in both the Business Class and Economy Class, complete with touch screen displays and USB charging ports. Each Business Class seat comes with an additional handset and in-seat power outlets.
“SIA has also selected global inflight connectivity services from Panasonic Avionics which can deliver average speeds up to 100 megabits per second to the aircraft, with peak speeds reaching 200 megabits and higher,” said a November 24 press release. “The airline’s inflight connectivity experience, powered by Panasonic Avionics’ global network of high-speed, high-bandwidth satellites will deliver a host of next-generation connectivity benefits, including fast internet and inflight mobile phone services.”
The solution also includes Panasonic’s immersive 3D inflight map platform called Arc.
The release said this inflight map brings a wide range of innovations to the traditional map application, helping to increase overall customer engagement and loyalty made possible through a fully integrated IFE and connectivity system.
"The agreement with SIA represents the first launch of Panasonic Avionics’ Arc map platform on the 737-8 platform,” said the release.
“Our eX1 solution, connectivity and Arc map capabilities brings the full power and potential of in-flight entertainment and connectivity into the narrow-body cabin, and will ensure that SIA can offer an amazing and consistent passenger experience across its fleet,” said Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation.
This agreement with SIA is the latest milestone in a 26-year partnership that has seen the carrier select Panasonic Avionics’ IFEC solutions for its wide-body fleet. Earlier this year, the airline became the launch customer for Panasonic Avionics’ new Marketplace digital eCommerce platform.
