LAKE FOREST, California – 9 November 2009 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, today announced that it has received a new order for Panasonic’s eX2 IFE system from All Nippon Airways (ANA) for its Boeing 767-300ER aircraft and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

The eX2 system delivers an enhanced IFE experience through Audio and Video On Demand (AVOD) and other entertainment options on high-resolution seatback monitors. Passengers can also view their own iPod and other personal media content on the in-seat display using the iPod, USB and audio jacks. In addition, the eX2 system offers advanced interactive entertainment choices, including shopping, and games, movies and television programming.

“The eX2 system offers many innovative entertainment features that are valued and demanded by our passengers,” said Vice President Products & Service Innovations of All Nippon Airways. “We will continue to look to Panasonic Avionics to provide our passengers with new options in the area of in-flight entertainment and communications.”

“We have had a long and successful partnership with All Nippon Airways and are pleased to earn their repeat business,” said Yasu Enokido, Chief Operating Officer and President of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “It is exciting to be an integral part of their expansion plans and we look forward to providing their passengers with an amazing long-haul experience for years to come.”
Ranked among the top 10 airlines in the world, carrying almost 50 million passengers every year to 52 destinations in Japan and 26 cities throughout Asia, Europe and the United States, ANA is recognized for outstanding passenger service both on the ground and in the air. In the Japanese tradition of mixing hospitality with high technology, personalized, a la carte service complements state-of-the-art entertainment systems and the latest in cabin design. ANA has been in the airline business for over 50 years, and combined with ANA Group companies its activities extend across a host of complete travel and aviation-related services.

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.

Calgary, Alberta – November 06, 2009… AeroMechanical Services Ltd. (AMS) have signed an agreement with L-3 Communications to sell AMS’s real-time data communications and Internet data delivery systems for aircraft. L-3 Communications is the world’s largest producer of aircraft Flight Data Recorders (FDRs).

The agreement provides for a reselling and teaming arrangement under which L-3 will offer aircraft manufacturers and civil aviation users economically viable access to FDR analytical data via real-time data streaming, from anywhere and at any time, around the world.

Under the brand name FLYHT™, AMS will be the exclusive provider to L-3 of Iridium satellite-based real time data communications and Internet data delivery technology. This will include AMS’s revolutionary FLYHTstream™ data streaming system, as well as its fuel-and emissions-management products.

The agreement also provides for L-3 to offer AMS technology to operators of maritime vessels in conjunction with L-3′s Marine Voyage Recorder products.

AMS president Richard Hayden said, “This agreement will combine L-3′s flight recorder and electronic flight bag products, with AMS’s real-time data communication systems to offer customers the ability to receive, record, store, monitor, transmit and analyze critical aircraft flight data, in real time when necessary. The result will be to improve both cost-effective aircraft performance and operational safety.”

Together with an on-board L-3 FDR, AMS has demonstrated real-time FDR data and aircraft position streaming on in-service aircraft using its patented Automated Flight Information Reporting System (afirs™). Using ground-based data analysis tools, operators can review captured data to plan maintenance and verify that each aircraft is conserving fuel and flying safely. In an emergency, ground personnel can review data for aircraft and subsystem functionality, and provide guidance and recommendations to the flight crew.

Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications employs over 66,000 people worldwide and is a leading provider of high technology products, subsystems and systems. The company reported 2008 sales of $14.9 billion. Its aviation recorders division based in Sarasota, Florida, is the world’s leading provider of FDR devices, with over 50,000 delivered to date to over 3000 customers.

AeroMechanical Services Ltd. (TSX: AMA) provides proprietary technological products and services designed to reduce costs and improve efficiencies in the aviation industry. The company has successfully commercialized four products and associated services currently marketed to scheduled and unscheduled aircraft operators, manufacturers and maintenance organizations around the world. Its premier technologies, afirs™, UpTime™, FLYHTstream™, and FIRST™ allow airlines to monitor and manage aircraft operations anywhere, anytime, in real-time.

To keep the WAEA flame alive we again cover people, products, and services you may have missed, we present another walk down the show floor.

While Fred Faulk (eDigital Prez) smile is almost as big as the latest 8” eVU portable entertainment player. Now the eDigital folks are offering Early Window content as well as 20+ hours of battery life, the latest eVU offers a customizable GUI and a new touchscreen option. With 160 GB of hard disk storage one could think of the new eVU as a long haul entertainment solution…it looks like the plane will run out of gas before the battery does. We bet the next generation will do away with the buttons! www.edigital.com

Got Power? Our next solution is from George Smallhorn and the folks at Inflight Canada who saw the need for inseat power in retrofit applications but re-thought the certification solution and avoided adding boxes to the seat. What did he do? Simple, build a clamshell box to hold the Astronics power module, connect it to power, and affix the unit under the seat and to the existing seat rail via a couple of seat cleats.. Clever, huh? No doubt this concept could grow to an interesting Seat Power/IFE/Connectivity imbedded system by next WAEA www.inflightcanada.com

3 November 2009 – Following an intensive and robust evaluation process, Air New Zealand has ordered 14 Airbus A320 aircraft to replace its existing domestic fleet of 15 Boeing 737-300s. The aircraft will be powered by IAE engines.

The A320, which is larger than the aircraft type it will replace, will enable Air New Zealand to increase capacity on routes that are starting to face capacity constraints at some airports during peak times. Air New Zealand has also placed purchase options for a further 11 A320 aircraft, including the possibility of selecting the larger A321.

“Our 12 Airbus A320s already deployed on short haul international routes are performing well, and moving to one single-aisle aircraft type for both domestic and short haul international routes will immediately deliver added efficiencies in maintenance, crew training, and overall fleet simplification,” said Bruce Parton, Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul Airline.

The A320 has the widest fuselage of any single-aisle aircraft and is a significant factor in added passenger comfort. A new cabin design offers a significant increase in overhead stowage, dramatic ambience lighting options and noticeable noise reduction.

Enhanced aerodynamics, engine enhancements and improved navigation technology such as “continuous descent approach” keep the A320 the most eco-efficient aircraft in its class.

“Air New Zealand will reap the benefits of selecting a common family of aircraft across their domestic and short haul single-aisle fleet. The A320 prevailed in the stiffest of competitions to show once again, that it is the single aircraft of choice bar none. We are delighted to build on our already close relationship with Air New Zealand with this announcement,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly-by-wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. More than 6,400 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold to more than 300 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world’s best selling commercial jetliner ever. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerised cargo system, which is compatible with the world wide standard wide-body system.

SEATTLE, Oct. 28 – Boeing (NYSE: BA) today announced that it has chosen its North Charleston, S.C., facility as the location for a second final assembly site for the 787 Dreamliner program. Boeing evaluated criteria that were designed to find the final assembly location within the company that would best support the 787 business plan as the program increases production rates. In addition to serving as a location for final assembly of 787 Dreamliners, the facility also will have the capability to support the testing and delivery of the airplanes.

“Establishing a second 787 assembly line in Charleston will expand our production capability to meet the market demand for the airplane,” said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “This decision allows us to continue building on the synergies we have established in South Carolina with Boeing Charleston and Global Aeronautica,” he said, adding that this move will strengthen the company’s competitiveness and sustainability and help it grow for the long term.

Boeing Charleston performs fabrication, assembly and systems installation for the 787 aft fuselage sections. Across the street, Global Aeronautica, which is 50 percent owned by Boeing, is responsible for joining and integrating 787 fuselage sections from other structural partners.

Until the second 787 assembly line is brought on line in North Charleston, Boeing will establish transitional surge capability at its Everett, Wash., location to ensure the successful introduction of the 787-9, the first derivative model of the 787. When the second line in Charleston is up and operating, the surge capability in Everett will be phased out.

“We’re taking prudent steps to protect the interests of our customers as we introduce the 787-9 and ramp up overall production to 10 twin-aisle 787 jets per month,” said Albaugh.

“While we welcome the development of this expanded capability at Boeing Charleston, the Puget Sound region is the headquarters of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Everett will continue to design and produce airplanes, including the 787, and there is tremendous opportunity for our current and future products here,” Albaugh emphasized. “We remain committed to Puget Sound.”

Approximately 55 airlines have ordered around 840 787 airplanes since the program was launched in 2003. The 787 family of airplanes will carry 200 to 250 passengers on flights up to 8,200 nautical miles (15,200 km). The 787 will be more efficient, quieter and have lower emissions than other airplanes while offering passengers greater comfort and the convenience of direct, nonstop flights between more cities around the world.
“The 787 will provide airlines with unprecedented operating economics and efficiencies. It also will take passengers where they want to go, when they want to go, and do it more comfortably and affordably than ever before,” Albaugh said. “This airplane will allow us to continue to set the standard for commercial aviation in the second century of flight.”

Neuilly-sur-Seine, October 30, 2009 – Air France today took reception of its first A380 aircraft, the largest passenger jet in the world. This super-sized aircraft – capable of carrying 855 passengers, but carrying only 538 in the Air France version – is at the forefront of innovation in aviation, displaying a superior design that combines unparalleled size and might with aesthetics and grace.

The wings alone on this record-breaking super jet each measure 845m². The A380 also boasts 50 percent more floor surface than any other high capacity aircraft, giving passengers space to relax in what is the quietest cabin of any airliner currently in service.

Thales is a long-standing Airbus partner, and the main supplier of the A380’s cockpit display systems – its technology can be found throughout the aircraft’s avionics system, covering navigation, flight controls, electrical power systems and utilities such as braking systems and door management* systems. The A380’s passenger doors are for the first time ever electronically controlled instead of mechanically operated. Within the cabin, the company provides state-of-the-art lighting systems and Inflight Entertainment systems.

Thales systems comprise a significant percentage of the electronics onboard the A380 and as such the company plays a significant role in bringing the aircraft to market. An average of 350 Thales employees per year worked on developing systems onboard the A380 over a period of five years.

Thales in addition supplied the A380 with a state-of-the-art full flight simulator for crew training. Innovative Thales solutions give crews on the A380 all the onboard intelligence they need for flying the aircraft, and the company’s expertise in simulation and air traffic management provides the breadth of vision required to further develop optimum solutions for this aircraft of the future.

Innovation for the Pilot
The A380 cockpit contains completely new technology, such as the Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) suite, never before seen on an aircraft. With an eye on the future, the cockpit has been designed in a way that will reduce training costs and optimise use of airline resources. Namely, an A380 pilot will need just minimal amounts of training to be able to transfer to the new layout and functions of the next generation A350 XWB.

Innovation and IMA
The A380 is the first aircraft ever to be fitted with the Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) suite, a major technical evolution of global importance for airlines and operators. Designed by Airbus and co-developed with Thales and Diehl Aerospace, the IMA is a leap-ahead technological innovation, with all onboard computing modules networked and able to support different applications. The result is a substantial improvement in computing power, reliability, maintainability, volume, weight and scalability.

Through its IMA platform, Thales has halved the number of parts required, leading to significant gains in direct maintenance costs as communication between the different systems is optimised. The principles of standardisation and the multiple use of function units are applied by combining computing as well as input and output functions in standardised computer platforms.

The IMA solution maximises the benefits of reuse developed for the Airbus A380 and specific requirements of the A400M, the Airbus military transport aircraft currently under development. For the A400M, the IMA has been adapted to meet military requirements for resistance to higher vibration levels, higher electromagnetic compatibility and necessary lightning protection system.

Innovation and the Onboard Airport Navigation System
Thales is providing the world’s first Onboard Airport Navigation System (OANS) within the A380 cockpit, providing crewmembers with improved situational awareness on airport surface manoeuvres. OANS allows the flight crew to more efficiently navigate at airports, which have become increasingly congested.

The OANS draws on an Airport Mapping Database (AMDB) to dynamically display the aircraft position on high-resolution geo-referenced airport maps. This information is presented to pilots via a large format liquid crystal display (Navigation Display).

On ground, the function displays high-resolution airport moving maps that depict the aircraft’s position in relation to airport surface features for taxiing operations from and to the gate. The system and database are designed with commonality for Airbus aircraft, first deployed on the A380, and then on A330/A340, A320 families, as well as on the future A350XWB.

Innovation and Head-Up Display
The Head-Up Display (HUD) is making its first appearance on an A380 aircraft with the entry into service of the A380 with Air France, the first airline to select the Thales HUD (in dual configuration) for this aircraft type. The European Aviation Safety Agency certified the Thales HUD on the A380 in both single (left seat only) and dual (left and right seats) configurations. Other Thales A380 HUD customers include China Southern Airlines and Korean Air.

The HUD increases pilot situational awareness by creating the conditions for a smoother transition from head down to head up. This feature is particularly advantageous during approach and landing phases, when it displays trajectory related symbols superimposed on the pilot’s actual external view.

The new Thales HUD is based on innovative and proven technologies and is already available as a catalogue option on Airbus Single Aisle and A380 aircraft families in current production.

Innovation for the Passenger
Innovation and Inflight Entertainment
Air France is equipping all of its A380 fleet with the advanced Thales TopSeries Inflight Entertainment (IFE) system. This system provides high-speed delivery of onboard services with large, widescreen displays at every seat. Air France A380 passengers can access a broad range of entertainment that includes approximately 100 on-demand movies, 300 audio CDs, 26 games, live camera, flight information map, in-seat chat and a customised menu option for children.

Air France is the first airline to equip each seat in the Affaires and Voyageur cabins with a USB socket, enabling passengers to download content such as flight schedules, information on Air France, destinations guides, games for children, as well as relaxation videos and podcasts. Passengers select the “Forum” programme from the list, which automatically disconnects when another application is selected.

The TopSeries IFE system is the first passenger system of its type to integrate on-demand entertainment and in-seat power to accommodate personal electronic devices. With a growing market share that today exceeds 40%, this web-based system is scalable to any aircraft and has been selected by more than 50 airlines worldwide.

Innovation and Cabin Lighting
Thales and Diehl’s joint venture company Diehl Aerospace, the world leader in cabin mood lighting, supplies the general cabin lighting system onboard the A380. This solution consists of the very latest technology for cabin lighting installations on commercial airliners in service.

The system enhances passenger relaxation by means of innovative ceiling mood lighting throughout cabin, creating restful day and night ambiences. These lighting innovations contribute to diminishing the effects of jet lag.

The so-called mood lighting effect is created by the Hybrid Integrated Ballast Unit (HIBU) system, by means of which LED elements complement conventional fluorescent light tubes. The HIBU system is superior to previous cabin lighting installations on long-range aircraft, because its MELODY (Modular Enhanced Low Dimming) technology allows for more variation than ever before in lighting scenarios.

MELODY means that cabin light on the A380 can be dimmed down to 0.1 per cent, and the technology is particularly effective for simulating a gradual increase of light again. As such, day and night effects can be simulated very subtly.

Thales is very proud to be onboard the A380 and to have worked alongside Airbus to tailor the very latest technological innovations to meet the needs of this superior aircraft.

This is Part 1 of a series on the WAEA interviews about products and services we saw and inquired about at the WAEA Conference – September, 2009 in Palm Springs CA.

Lumexis: Generation II of the Lumexis hardware is shown here. The server delivers hi-definition 720 p images (1024 x 600). Ideal for premium class, the hi-def signals can be sent to any size monitor. The second-generation server is capable of delivering video streams to 400 seats. However, and as an example, 5 servers would cover an A380, which would cover redundancy and back-up. All drives are now solid-state and the new generation delivers a “daisy chained” architecture. The second-generation system still uses single-mode fiber with gigabit optical transceivers – there is no copper anywhere.

Goodrich (TEAC): Designed as a plug-and-play replacement for Hi-8 and SVHS reproducers, the VE-801HDD player supports (without modification) RS232C, RS485, or TTL serial interfaces. This means the new VE-801HDD delivers composite analog, NTSC or PAL, and/or digital video with 720 p resolution. Still delivering two (2) languages, the unit supports high-speed data loading, 802.3 Ethernet, and delivers 50 GB of video content in MPEG-1, MPEG-2, or MPEG-4 content. The new TEAC player features a lot of solid-state memory and a front-slot loader for media content. We expect this to be a “work horse” product for the next generation of Hi-Def IFE.

IMS: You can refer to the IFE Hot Topic of 10/19/2009 for specific information but the RAVE system from IMS is really a semi-imbedded, multiple architecture, IFE system. Noting that the system will eventually be DO160-C, etc covered the seatback unit with its replaceable video module remains on the aircraft, unlike portable units. However, the IMS engineers designed the display to be removable with a special key and we are told the unit can be removed and replaced inflight. Content can be loaded in the background via the copper-based Ethernet and the column architecture is closed-looped to provide higher reliability in case of failure. A Wi-Fi option exists that can provide content update, but is also a configurable data network option for email and Internet. The Video Presentation is probably an idea whose time has come because it relies on passenger provided data content. This means you can look at iPod movies, SD video and images, not to mention associated audio as well. We like the card reader feature and we think airlines will too because it is a potential revenue stream if an airlines ops for self contained SD card movies – pay as you play.

Row 44: Working in conjunction with five partners, Row 44 rolled out their portal application dubbed Skytown Center. Destined for airline applications that may not require a fee, the Ku-Band portal gives airline passengers a way to connect to the aircraft provided intranet with advertising supported features. For more information check out our October 5, 2009 Hot Topic, found through the www.airfax.com/blog homepage.

WorldConnect: One of the best things about the WAEA Conference are the “little guys”…the people who bring interesting, new travel concepts and products to the IFE industry. WorldConnect AG brought product lines from Scross and Swiss Travel Products that featured innovative and clean designs. You are looking at an AC to USB (5 volts) converter. Sure, everybody makes one, but this one (when plugged in) glows a very cool red!

eDigital: eDigital brought their new 8” touch screen eVue to the show. The unit (still with a hard drive) features a 20+ hour battery with a very responsive and intuitive touch control. The next generation machine is easy to use and we expect eDigital to eventually do away with buttons all together. At the show eDigital announced a sale to Air Seychelles via Mezzo.

Inflight Peripherals: We really liked Inflight Peripherals’ iPod docking station. The unit has virtually one moving part, which consisted of a spring-loaded iPod connector cable (Beldin, and others). The units look to be a design slated for a business jet installation. The unit we saw was a low run, CNC milled block of aluminum that was anodized a beautiful blue. IFPL never fails to demonstrate products with simple and elegant designs. We would also note that if anyone needs a gold plated LCD seat arm assembly, this is your source!

Telefonix: You are looking at the future of energy drinks developed by none other than Telefonix’s Paul Burke. Paul is holding his latest invention (concoction) called EXE. Setting aside the software allegory, EXE is a B vitamin based energy drink. You’re probably asking yourself why we are writing about this in an IFE blog and here is your answer: A couple mornings we couldn’t have made it through the interview intensive days with out this stuff! Oh and we imagine it would help a bad case of jetlag too. It is not like coffee but rather it makes you feel good all day. We understand hospitals are experimenting with B vitamin drinks and we expect you will see this product in that type of application in no time. If you want some for yourself you will have to contact Paul since it is not in distribution at this time. In fact, we wrote this blog hoping Paul will send us a case of this stuff. We will keep you posted. Oh, and last but not least Telefonix was celebrating their 20th anniversary at the show – congratulations!

At the latest WAEA meet, we saw a lot of smaller vendors who had excellent products and clever ideas, as well as, bigger players who had some good small ideas. This hot topic is dedicated to a few of them. Sorry we couldn’t get them all this issue but we will have more later.

Player: KID Systeme, Product: Logolight – While we are still waiting for more data, the Airbus/KID Systeme little logo light is an idea whose time has come. You will note we refrained from using the term “bright idea”, however, we really liked this gadget because of it’s promise in the cabin. Presently, it is a fixed, small, broad focal range, LED spotlight. Available in almost any color because of lLED’s and masks, the KID Logolight projected a bright (remember we were in a lighted hall) focused image that could be used as a seat number marker…day or night, and airline promo graphic, or even textured graphics for mood lighting. We see this gadget as becoming a multicolored, moving, multi-message, visual generator for lots of applications.

Player: AP Avionix Wireless Access Point: Product: Cab-n-Connect MIMO 802.11n CWAP – The impressive display touting an amazing demonstrated150 Mbps thruput was not the only feature that drew us to the latest WAP from AP Avionix. AP Avionix told us, “A recent test on an A300-600, outfitted from nose-to-tail, saw stream delivery rates of 150 Mbps and degradation was not observed until we had 100+ clients running.” However, we really, really liked the lights! The blinking LEDs not only provided visual proof of operation and performance…they were absolutely cool to look at. We bet airlines that install them will eventually let passengers see the light (groan), however, it is a great way to differentiate one service offering from another and lets face it, tekkies like lights!. Besides, watching them may be better that some movies and is certainly better than advertising.

Player: Inflight Canada. Panasonic, Thales (and no doubt others) Product: Pico Projector – No doubt driven by the current technology craze to “smallify” the LED projection technology, the concept of a pico-projector is an idea whose time has come to “de plane”. We saw at least three and they all were pretty good. We liked the sharp screen in the Thales unit, the under bin mount and screen design and deployment of the Inflight Canada unit. Remember, these babies like darkness so installations flooded in light will not cut it in an aircraft application. Shown in the image is the Inflight Canada unit.

ORLANDO, Florida – 20 October 2009 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation, the world leader in state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems, today announced the availability of its Global Communications Suite to business aircraft at the annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) conference in Orlando.

Panasonic’s Global Communications Suite offers enhanced connectivity and productivity for business flyers through a combination of the following services: eXConnect, eXPhone, and the Panasonic Airborne Television Network. The suite provides the bandwidth to support virtually any service business passengers require, including simultaneous voice, Internet, VPN, live television and video conferencing.

Panasonic is in discussions with multiple customers who operate aircraft including the Boeing Business Jet, Airbus Corporate Jet, Embraer 135, B747, and the B777.

Panasonic’s Global Communications Suite consists of the following solutions:

• Panasonic eXConnect – This global, two-way broadband solution will provide high-speed connectivity to the aircraft supporting data rates up to 50Mbps.
• Panasonic eXPhone – Together with Panasonic’s service partner, AeroMobile, eXPhone enables passengers to make and receive calls and SMS text messages with their personal mobile phones, and use GPRS-based devices such as BlackBerry®.
• eXTraBandwidth – This solution provides a tiered offering of guaranteed, consistent bandwidth for high quality communications, such as dedicated voice, video conferencing and other bandwidth-critical applications.
• Panasonic Airborne Television Network – This private, global network will provide real-time broadcast TV programming delivering live news, sports, business/finance, weather, and entertainment via a proprietary, encrypted satellite feed. The Panasonic Airborne Television Network will be the first aviation satellite television product to deliver a consistent viewing experience on a global basis.

“Having broadband access to the Internet, broadcast satellite TV and the use of personal mobile devices is crucial to today’s business executive,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “With our Global Communications Suite, Panasonic will be providing a truly global solution with major improvements in connectivity bandwidth, television capabilities, and mobile device support providing business executives with the performance and capabilities they desire.”

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.

ORLANDO, FL [NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention] – October 20, 2009 – Aircell, the world’s leading provider of airborne communications, announces that Flight Options, a leader in the private aviation industry, will install the Aircell® High Speed Internet system aboard the majority of its fleet. The program includes all Flight Options Embraer Phenom 300’s as well as other aircraft. Installations will begin in late 2009 and be complete in 2011. The Aircell High Speed Internet system will allow Flight Options passengers and flight crews to use their personal Wi-Fi® devices to access the entire Internet in flight, just as they would in an office, hotel or coffee shop on the ground.

Providing personalized service to over 1,400 Owners and Members, Flight Options offers a complete spectrum of programs from fractional ownership to leasing, aircraft management, and JetPASS Select 25-hour card membership. The company currently owns and operates more than 110 aircraft, including the Hawker 400XP, Hawker 800XP, Citation X and Embraer Legacy 600. In late 2009, the all-new Embraer Phenom 300 will join the Flight Options fleet.

James Miller, Executive Vice President, Flight Options, said, “For our Owners, the desire for seamless, full-speed connectivity in the air is irrefutable. The Aircell High Speed Internet system is absolutely in a class by itself. It’s everything we need it to be – lightweight and affordable with connection speeds as fast as people are accustomed to on the ground. We’re proud to be the first fractional provider in the world to offer such a sought-after inflight service to its Owners.”

John Wade, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Aircell, commented, “Having Aircell High Speed Internet selected by a world leader in the fractional industry is another major milestone for the system. It’s also significant that prior to Aircell’s introduction of its exclusive air-to-ground technology, full-scale connectivity was simply out of reach for all but the very largest business jets. Now, it’s viable for not only large and midsize aircraft, but light jets like the Phenom 300 as well.”

Each aircraft in the program will receive an Aircell Axxess® cabin communications system with the ATG 4000 High Speed Internet unit. In addition to High Speed Internet service, this comprehensive communications suite includes multiple channels of worldwide voice service and narrowband data capabilities.

These new installations will join other Aircell communications systems that have flown throughout the Flight Options fleet for many years. This latest retrofit program will extend a longtime relationship between the two companies.

Aircell High Speed Internet is the only solution in business aviation that provides a true high speed Internet experience that equals what passengers are accustomed to on the ground, while being small and light enough to fit on virtually any business aircraft. It is up to 56 times faster than a traditional dial-up connection.

Aircell High Speed Internet allows passengers and crews to use their own Wi-Fi enabled devices, such as laptops, PCs, smartphones and PDAs, to surf the Web, send and receive e-mail with attachments, access their corporate Virtual Private Networks (VPN) and much more – all at full mobile broadband speeds in flight. The Aircell High Speed Internet system is powered by the Aircell® Network, which utilizes 3G mobile wireless technology, operating in the continental U.S. over an advanced network of ground stations and Aircell’s exclusive broadband air-to-ground spectrum.

Aircell is displaying its complete family of airborne communications products this week at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual meeting & convention in Orlando, FL (booth 5194).

About Aircell
Aircell is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications and a single-source, turnkey provider of equipment, service, and technical support. With a global sales and support presence, its products are offered by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation, and are installed aboard the world’s four largest fractional ownership fleets. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary new mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell® Network and its inflight portal, known as Gogo®, revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. The Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay In Touch, In Flight®. For more information about Aircell, please visit www.aircell.com.

About Flight Options
Flight Options has earned a reputation as a leader and innovator within the private jet industry. Marking its 10th Anniversary in 2008, Flight Options offers the complete spectrum of programs from fractional ownership to leasing, aircraft management, and JetPASS Select 25-hour card membership. The company is an industry leader in private aviation safety and provides personalized service to over 1,400 Owners and Members. Flight Options owns and operates a fleet of more than 110 aircraft consisting of the Hawker 400XP, Hawker 800XP, Citation X, and Embraer Legacy 600 with the revolutionary new Phenom 300 arriving in late 2009. More information is available at www.flightoptions.com or by calling 877.703.2348

Neuilly-sur-Seine, 20 October 2009 – Japan Airlines has chosen the Thales TopSeries system as the Inflight entertainment platform on its Boeing 767.

“Japan Airlines pays close attention to products that can cater to the needs of our passengers. After a thorough review, Japan Airlines found the TopSeries architecture to be the right platform. We are happy to be working again with Thales, sharing an excellent relationship,” said Shigeru Nagatomi, Vice President of Maintenance Material Planning & Supply Department with Japan Airlines.

The airline has in total committed to install the TopSeries system across its fleet of B767s, B777s, and B787s. System features vary in accordance to domestic and international routes.

“Japan Airlines is one of our first IFE customers, dating back to 1997, when we installed our first generation AVOD system on part of Japan Airline’s B747-400 fleet. We appreciate their vision for the future and we will ensure that the TopSeries system remains aligned to their needs,” said Alan Pellegrini, Vice President and General Manager of Thales’s Inflight
Entertainment Systems business.

Beyond the system itself, Thales supports content management requirements for all aircraft with the TopSeries system onboard. Thales’s turnkey maintenance program, TopCare, is a comprehensive service available to airlines.

About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace and Space, Defence, Security and Transportation markets. In 2008, the company generated revenues of 12.7 billion euros with 68,000 employees in 50 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers as local partners. www.thalesgroup.com

REDMOND, WA, October 19, 2009 – Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO), a leader in advanced, high performance lighting, electrical power and automated test systems for the global aerospace and defense industries, launched its decorative Outlet Unit Cover for use with its EmPower® System 1235-X AC outlet units.

The 24 Karat gold-plated cover (part number 123505-2) provides a sophisticated finish. In addition, Astronics offer an un-plated, un-assembled kit (part number 123505-3) for installer custom finishing. This allows installers maximum flexibility in coordinating color and finish with cabin interior design motifs.

The outlet cover provides an elegant, well-appointed look in keeping with business jet décor.

Versatility was a key consideration in cover design. The new cover can be oriented to open and close in any installer-defined direction (up, down, left or right). An internal spring mechanism holds the cover door open or closed for user convenience and a contoured edge allows easy one-finger opening. In keeping with Astronics’ heritage as a leader in AC power for aircraft passengers, the new cover can easily be added to existing Astronics 1235-X outlet units already installed.

ABOUT ASTRONICS CORPORATION
Astronics Corporation is a trusted leader in innovative, high performance lighting, power management systems for the global aerospace industry; automated diagnostic test systems, training and simulation devices for the defense industry; and safety and survival equipment for airlines. Astronics’ strategy is to develop and maintain positions of technical leadership in its chosen aerospace and defense markets, to leverage those positions to grow the amount of content and volume of product it sells to those markets and to selectively acquire businesses with similar technical capabilities that could benefit from our leadership position and strategic direction. Astronics Corporation, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, DME Corporation, Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems Corp. and Luminescent Systems Inc., have a reputation for high quality designs, exceptional responsiveness, strong brand recognition and best-in-class manufacturing practices. The Company routinely posts news and other important information on its website at www.Astronics.com.

For more information on Astronics and its products, visit its website at www.Astronics.com.

EAST AURORA, NY, October 19, 2009 – Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO), a leader in advanced, high performance lighting, electrical power management and automated test systems for the global aerospace and defense industries, today announced in conjunction with its participation in the National Business Aviation Association 62nd Annual Meeting and Convention in Orlando, Florida, this week, that it has received FAA TSO for its 84015 series of LED Forward Position lighting assemblies.

The new lighting assemblies utilize high power LEDs in conjunction with advanced optics to produce luminance levels that exceed FAA requirements. Power consumption is dramatically reduced and dispatch reliability is significantly improved when compared with legacy incandescent lighting solutions. The lighting assemblies are designed to be drop-in replacements on existing aircraft or as line-fit equipment on the newest class of aircraft. These lighting assemblies can be found on the Embraer Phenom 300.

Mr. James S. Kramer, Executive Vice President of Astronics, commented, “These lighting assemblies are another example of Astronics’ engineering expertise in providing practical, cutting-edge lighting solutions for the aerospace market. These Forward Position light assemblies are a welcome addition to our already robust suite of aircraft lighting solutions that can be found on business, commercial and military aircraft around the world.”

ABOUT ASTRONICS CORPORATION
Astronics Corporation is a trusted leader in innovative, high performance lighting, power management systems for the global aerospace industry; automated diagnostic test systems, training and simulation devices for the defense industry; and safety and survival equipment for airlines. Astronics’ strategy is to develop and maintain positions of technical leadership in its chosen aerospace and defense markets, to leverage those positions to grow the amount of content and volume of product it sells to those markets and to selectively acquire businesses with similar technical capabilities that could benefit from our leadership position and strategic direction. Astronics Corporation, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, DME Corporation, Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems Corp. and Luminescent Systems Inc., have a reputation for high quality designs, exceptional responsiveness, strong brand recognition and best-in-class manufacturing practices. The Company routinely posts news and other important information on its website at www.Astronics.com.

For more information on Astronics and its products, visit its website at www.Astronics.com.