Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic Avionics) has announced a landmark 10-year agreement with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s premium global airline, to provide in-flight entertainment maintenance support for their fleet of confirmed orders of 39 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
Given the long-term contract as the IFE provider, this contract makes a lot of sense. That PTS is establishing a presence in Riyadh to support the operation suggests optimism on further growth of the relationship, and also the value of local jobs and training in developing such relationships.
– Seth
Panasonic Technical Services (PTS) will also establish a new line maintenance station in Riyadh. Technical teams with specialized knowledge of the Dreamliner’s advanced systems will deliver top-tier PTS MRO services. Panasonic Avionics’ new investment in Saudi Arabia includes local staff hires at the PTS line maintenance station. Panasonic will advance education and training to support this innovative project.
The maintenance agreement includes the provision of PTS’ Total Care Package, which ensures seamless aircraft operation and optimal passenger experience. This strategic agreement combines both companies’ commitment to innovation and excellence in the industry.
As Riyadh Air, the world’s first digitally native airline, develops future flying experiences, Panasonic Avionics will continue to enhance passenger experiences and provide its customers with opportunities to stand out in the market.
PTS’ 25 years of dependability and service will deliver an invaluable OEM experience that Riyadh Air will benefit from as it commences passenger flights in late 2025. The agreement will provide Riyadh Air with:
- Comprehensive line maintenance support
- On-site technical expertise
- Proactive maintenance planning
- 24/7 technical support
- Spares and repair services
- Fully compliant Part 145 services
Panasonic Avionics’ new investment in Saudi Arabia includes local staff hires at the PTS line maintenance station.
Tom Eskola, Vice President, Panasonic Technical Services at Panasonic Avionics, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Riyadh Air on this long-term agreement. Our Total Care Package service is set to provide proactive, comprehensive support, minimizing downtime and ensuring consistently exceptional operational performance and passenger experience. With a new dedicated base in Saudi Arabia, we are demonstrating our commitment to providing Riyadh Air with the highest level of service and support, combining our expertise in both aircraft maintenance and IFE systems.”
Peter Belew, Chief Operations Officer at Riyadh Air, said: “Delivering a consistent, premium passenger experience is at the heart of everything we do. When it came to supporting our IFE systems, Panasonic Technical Services was best positioned to provide the necessary care and expertise. We are confident that this strategic agreement will ensure our passengers enjoy a world-class IFE experience on every flight.”
Riyadh Air also selected Panasonic Avionics’ seat end solution, Astrova, for its entire Boeing 787-9 fleet last year, further solidifying the relationship between the two companies.
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