Panasonic Avionics plans a 50% growth in its GEO satellite network capacity. Alas, the company won’t really share any details beyond that, which raises additional questions.
Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Swiss introduces free messaging, cheaper inflight connectivity packages
One of the most expensive inflight internet services is about to become massively more affordable. Swiss is dramatically revamping its inflight connectivity pricing, including introducing a free messaging tier.
Eutelsat 10B enters service
Inflight and maritime connectivity secured a boost in capacity from the North Atlantic to the Indian Ocean this week as Eutelsat 10B entered service.
United launches new first class seats for single-aisle fleet
First class passengers on United Airlines might soon be flying in newly designed seats. The new seat features upgrades to the inflight entertainment system, as well as improved comfort and privacy for travelers, with plans to install it on more than 200 (mostly brand new) single-aisle aircraft by 2026.
Seeking understanding in the IFC world
No one likes to admit it, but every now and then a deal signed to deliver services for an airline turns sour. But those failures are also typically managed privately, and with minimal sniping between parties. When that veil of propriety is pierced, however, things get interesting in a hurry.
United, Saudia sign on for Astrova IFE
The newest inflight entertainment platform from Panasonic Avionics scored two key wins at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023 as long-time customers United Airlines and Saudia both selected the system for upcoming installations.
ThinKom Plus launches, with hybrid LEO/GEO offering
After teasing the details a bit in March, ThinKom formally launched its ThinAir Plus product line at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023, integrating an ESA into the footprint of its Ka2517 solution. The system touts multi-constellation, multi-orbit, multi-beam connectivity support. The ThinAir Plus terminal is also the first to offer concurrent, multi-band connectivity in a single package.
Korean renews inflight Wi-Fi plans
First announced in early 2019, Korean Air is finally ready to activate its in-flight WiFi service. The airline confirmed this week that the 737 MAX fleet will be connected on international routes as of 1 June 2023.
Panasonic brings 3D audio to the skies on Astrova IFE platform
Most conversations around inflight entertainment focus on the video capabilities of the systems. As part of its new Astrova line of IFE hardware, Panasonic Avionics plans to address the audio quality as well.
Air Canada brings free messaging online, expands live TV coverage
Air Canada plans a big boost to its WiFi offerings on board, including a free messaging for travelers. Live television access on board is also expanding.