• Agreement includes production aircraft and extensive retrofit program

Lake Forest, CA | July 14, 2016– China Eastern Airlines has increased its commitment to Panasonic Avionics’ (Panasonic) for global broadband connectivity services to 84 total aircraft.

The leading Chinese carrier, which, in partnership with China Telecom Satellite, was the first to offer broadband Wi-Fi connectivity on flights over Chinese airspace, and this agreement strengthens its long-term relationship with Panasonic.

The extended agreement – following the announcement of 20 Boeing 777-300ERs last November – includes 35 line-fit aircraft with and an extensive retrofit program covering an additional 49 aircraft.

Aircraft types included in the agreement are:

• One B737-800 (retrofit)
• Four B767-300 (retrofit)
• Two B767-300ER (retrofit)
• 20 B777-300 (line-fit)
• 31 A330-200 (retrofit)
• 11 A330-300 (retrofit)
• 15 A330-300 (line-fit)

Panasonic’s Global Communications Services are available across China and on over 99.6 per cent of all air traffic routes. It is the only global, broadband inflight connectivity service operating in every country in the world today and will enable China Eastern passengers to access the Internet, use email and log onto their favourite social media sites while on board.

Paul Margis, President and Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, says: “We have been helping China Eastern Airlines offer connected flights since November 2015 and remain the only provider operating over China today. Passengers increasingly expect the availability of reliable broadband Wi-Fi around the world and the roll out of this service across the China Eastern fleet will enable it to provide a connected service for its passengers”.

Zhang Chi, Deputy Director of China Eastern Airlines’ Transformation Office says: “China Eastern Airlines is committed to transforming the inflight experience for our passengers. We are constantly working with partners to discover new ways to engage passengers and to maximise the benefits of the connected aircraft. We look forward to the continued development of this extremely exciting service with the team at Panasonic Avionics.”

Panasonic Avionics’ eXConnect uses the company’s global Ku-band satellite network to deliver broadband connectivity to aircraft flying all over the world – even over oceans.

The concept of real-time aircraft tracking has become a global issue over that past few years. Needless to say, aircraft position data has become a focus for ICAO and the airlines. Many hardware manufacturers are stepping up and generating solutions that utilize, in many cases, existing connectivity. Panasonic has one such a product and we thought our readers would find it interesting because it utilizes existing installed hardware.

IFExpress had the opportunity to have a Q&A with Jeff Rex, Director, Panasonic Avionics Corporation about the new non-transponder-based aircraft position tracking service on offer.

1.Please name and describe the ground and airborne products involved in the Panasonic’s tracking solution.

Our global tracking system is based on Panasonic’s Global Communications Services (GCS) and FlightLink™ satcom solutions. By adding the AirMap application to either of these satcom solutions airlines can meet the normal and abnormal tracking requirements proposed for the GADSS.

Both flight tracking solutions provide a non-transponder-based aircraft position report available even in extreme remote and oceanic areas of the globe, either over Ku or a dedicated Iridium satellite data link. Each aircraft is monitored in real-time through a web-based tracking tool, called AirMap.

2. There are 3 issues we see – location data acquisition, transmission of the data (satcom, we presume), and ground handling of the data. Can you outline each solution?

Aircraft position and identification data from either our FlightLink or GCS solution is sent to our ground based servers. AirMap is the graphical interface that provides a visual representation of the aircraft’s flight path, altitude, and location. It allows airlines to view and interact with this tracking data. It also generates alerts to support the GADSS requirements as well as satisfying other operational needs. The tracking interval is completely customizable to an airline’s requirements and is manually adjustable. When combined with the core satcom system, the application also offers support for voice and text messaging in the event that an airline’s ground operations want to communicate with the aircraft.

For existing FlightLink and GCS satcom users no additional on-board equipment is required to activate Panasonic’s flight tracking solution. The only incremental costs are those associated with introduction of the AirMap application into the airline operations center.

3. Which is the lowest cost solution?

We are letting customers know that if they have eXConnect or FlightLink, then they can have flight tracking for only an incremental fee.

4. The US FAA is working on this problem and has some recommendations. Does the Panasonic solution agree with their needs?

eXConnect and FlightLink both meet the ICAO’s GADSS concept of operations. The standards and recommended practices specifications for both normal and abnormal tracking are still in development, and Panasonic will adjust our products as needed once released.

5. What are other valuable uses for Panasonic’s solution(s)?

FlightLink is a complete end-to-end solution that includes multi-function atmospheric and GPS sensors, dedicated two-way satellite communication system and ground-based data management and quality assurance. It is compatible with all aircraft types and the communication architecture provides a two-way information exchange at any altitude, and even over the poles. In addition to flight tracking, FlightLink enables incredibly accurate and high-resolution weather forecasts, real-time icing reports, turbulence reports, and improved operational support for airlines through AOC communications to and from an aircraft.

eXConnect is our global Ku-band broadband connectivity service. It covers 99.6% of all air travel hours and is installed on 1250 aircraft that fly routes all across the globe. Like FlightLink, it offers a two-way information exchange at any altitude. However, like all non-Iridium satellite solutions, it is not available over the poles. eXConnect is used for both passenger Wi-Fi and television services as well as for operational efficiency applications unlocked by the power of the connected aircraft. For instance, it enables real-time engine monitoring, telemedicine, live updates to EFBs and much more.

6. Is the solution, or portions of the solution, flying today?

Our existing FlightLink and GCS satcom users will require no additional on-board hardware to use Panasonic’s flight tracking solution. The only incremental costs are those associated with introduction of the AirMap application.

The current generation of AirMap tracking solution was launched in June 2016 and is currently being trialed by three airlines.

Read the press release on this product.

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More IFEC & Aviation News:

A) Each year, turbulence incidents cost airlines approximately $100 million due to crew and passenger injuries, unscheduled maintenance, operational inefficiencies, and revenue lost while planes are out of service. In fact, studies have shown that aircraft encounters with turbulence are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the commercial airline industry. The Weather Company, an IBM Business (NYSE: IBM) has announced a groundbreaking deal with Gogo Business Aviation (NASDAQ: GOGO) that will enable the delivery of real-time turbulence reports and alerts directly to pilots, dispatch and other operations personnel. Mark Gildersleeve, president of business solutions at The Weather Company, announced today at The Weather Company Aviation Conference that Gogo will be implementing Weather’s patented Turbulence Auto PIREP System (TAPS), a turbulence detection algorithm, on their aircraft-based communications server. The TAPS software will reside on Gogo’s server, which provides access to the necessary data generated by the aircraft to create reports of turbulence intensity. Gogo’s US-based air-to-ground and global satellite communication network is used to send the reports for immediate action in flight operations and weather forecasting. This is the first time a non-traditional system on the aircraft will be used to help enhance flight safety. Traditionally, flight operations personnel, pilots and aviation meteorologists received coded verbal reports with limited information on flight conditions, also known as PIREPS. Due to multiple reasons, including a lack of cockpit data connectivity, pilots were not able to get real-time updates. Using the Gogo network, pilots in the cockpit will now be able to access real-time turbulence reports and forecaster created alerts through Weather’s flight planning and operations applications and aircraft communication displays.

“Leveraging Gogo’s expanded fleet of aircrafts, The Weather Company can quickly share real-time turbulence data directly with pilots and dispatchers, thereby improving crew and passenger safety,” said Gildersleeve. “It is a great example of the Internet of Things in action, where we are collecting massive amounts of data very quickly and then using that insight to provide guidance to all flights that will be traveling through impacted air space.”

“In this increasingly connected world, it’s no longer just about passenger connectivity, we have to consider all the other ways we can leverage the available technology to enhance the overall flight experience and improve safety – such as a connected aircraft,” said Andrew Kemmetmueller, vice president of connected aircraft services, Gogo. “Our ability to provide access to real-time data through our network will help pilots and operations teams improve flight planning, and ultimately, help airlines deliver the best in-flight customer experience throughout a flight.” In addition to real-time alerting, Weather will be able to leverage the TAPS reports to continually improve turbulence forecasts, the skill of Weather’s overall forecast model, and the WSI Total Turbulence solution. Some customers of WSI Total Turbulence have seen a reduction in turbulence injuries and unnecessary turbulence-induced maintenance inspection by about 50% each. The reports will also empower Weather’s team of 40 aviation meteorologists to alert clients of weather-related safety risks globally. The Weather Company, an IBM Business, is the world’s largest private weather enterprise, helping people make informed decisions – and take action – in the face of weather. The company offers the most accurate, personalized and actionable weather data and insights to millions of consumers and thousands of businesses via Weather’s API, its business solutions division, and its own digital products from The Weather Channel (weather.com) and Weather Underground (wunderground.com). The company delivers up to 26 billion forecasts daily for 2.2 billion locations.

B) GOGO was selected by Delta Private Jets to equip its fleet of >70 business jets with Gogo Biz 4G inflight connectivity for 2Q17. Check out the full press release here.

C) We note that the Iran/Boeing airplane deal at $25B will include new versions of the B737, B777-300ER’s, and B777-900’s. A deal with Airbus includes some 73 wide bodies and 45 single ails worth an estimated $27B!

D) This study may explain aircraft Wi-Fi usage… be sure to check it out!

E) Take the time to watch this movie on Boeing’s patent for their solar airplane, it is great and unusual!

F) Thompson Aerospace is in the news!

• As part of its launch, the airline is offering today Wi-Fi, free of charge, to passenger’s flying to Havana, Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo.

Madrid, Spain | March 7, 2016– Air Europa, the airline division of Globalia, continues to press ahead with its plan to modernize and expand and, as from today, offers Wi-Fi service to passengers on-board three Airbus 330, hand in hand with Panasonic Avionics Corporation, world leader in in-flight entertainment and in-flight communication.

As part of its launching activities, during today, all Air Europa passengers flying to Havana, Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo will enjoy Free Wi-Fi during the flight.

Progressively, the airline belonging to Globalia Group, will install Wi-Fi via satellite on all its Airbus aircraft that operate long distance routes, the new Boeing 787 arriving this month will also have this service. Additionally the B787 aircraft will come with the system eX3 IFE to offer the passenger a unique in-flight entertainment experience.

The aircraft that offer Wi-Fi on-board, thanks to the innovative system eXConnect of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, are two Airbus 330-200 and one A330-300, it is estimated that from the month of July the entire long haul fleet with have Wi-Fi service on board.

The Wi-Fi service will be activated, above 10.000 meters, when the seat belt light is switched off, therefore it is not available during take-off and landing. From then on, passengers wishing to connect must keep the airplane mode activated on the mobile device in order to connect to the Wi-Fi “Ontheair” and after opening a browser select that rate most suits their needs.

Air Europa has selected three rates to choose from 7 euros for 15 Mb; a popular rate of 13 euros for 30 Mb that permits a longer navigating time or a premium rate of 20 euros which permits 50 Mb to navigate.

The installation of Wi-Fi service on-board Air Europa aircraft, that aims to improve in-flight entertainment, ensuring a great comfort and amenities; is a new step in the modernization that the airline is immersed in and that aims to establish itself as one of the best and most modern airlines in the world. Also, from next April changes will be introduced to catering service introducing new menus, together with Newrest and the chef Antonio Fernandez, will be offered on-board medium and long haul flights.

Hamburg, Germany | April 14, 2015– Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic) has reached a major milestone with the 700th aircraft installation of its eXConnect inflight Wi-Fi system.

Panasonic Avionics President and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Margis, said, “We believe that every aircraft should be connected, regardless of its mission. What was once viewed as a passenger amenity has quickly become a business imperative for our customers.”

Margis continued, “The connectivity discussion with our customers has moved beyond the size of the pipe. What matters most for our customers is how they can use connectivity to improve their business. Only Panasonic provides an ecosystem that uses connectivity for a wide array of services benefitting both the passenger and the airlines’ bottom line.”

No other provider has the ability to integrate state-of-the-art in-seat entertainment with broadband Wi-Fi, live television and 3G mobile phone services. Panasonic’s uniquely global Ku-band satellite network lets passengers surf the web at broadband speeds, send and receive email, watch live television and use 3G connectivity to make and receive phone calls, send and read SMS text messages or email, and browse online using mobility services from AeroMobile.

A connected inflight entertainment (IFE) system lets airlines offer passenger concierge services from its cabin crew and ground staff, and tailor on-board advertising with specific content aimed at individual passengers. With connectivity, real-time credit card validations help prevent fraud and let airlines offer higher value items through passenger devices and the seatback system. Live monitoring of the IFE systems and passenger behavior such as content usage statistics allow the airline to adjust their product strategy and serve their passengers better.

Connectivity is also transforming the way airlines can do business with real-time aircraft tracking around the globe, electronic flight bag services for cockpit operations and a real-time interface for flight and cabin crew with airline ground operations. A connected aircraft also enables proactive maintenance by continually streaming operational data including engine data to the ground, enabling quick analysis and the provision of fixes and solutions where necessary, and the quick mobilization of ground maintenance to ensure minimal operational disruption.

After solving birdstrike, Panasonic installed 250 aircraft with eXConnect in 2014. Over 300 are planned for installation this year to achieve the 1,000th aircraft in 1Q 2016. In total, 56 airlines, seven of which have committed in the last 8 weeks have committed over 2,200 aircraft with Panasonic’s eXConnect system.

The company will introduce massive capacity increases coming later this year, including 200mbps over CONUS (Continental U.S.), the Atlantic Ocean and into Europe with HTS (High Throughput Satellite), providing increased bandwidth. With future updates planned over Europe and Asia, HTS will cover all of the world’s high traffic areas by Q4 2017.

In addition Panasonic, the leading provider of inflight connectivity systems globally, has received 210 regulatory approvals including connected flights over China.

London, UK | October 23, 2014– With a suite of new technologies onboard, the first Virgin Atlantic 787 Dreamliner will take to the skies on 26th October from London Heathrow to Boston. As one of the most efficient aircraft in its class, a key to its performance is its new technology and innovative design.

Dave Bulman, Director of Technology commented: “The 787 is a revolutionary aircraft and new technology allows it to perform more efficiently than any other aircraft of its size. We recognise that technology is an extremely important part of a customer’s journey, whether they are flying for business or pleasure, and this aircraft has given us a fantastic opportunity to look at what we can offer our customers onboard. We have been working really hard with our partners at Boeing and Panasonic to bring connectivity across all our cabins as well as updating our revolutionary touch screen inflight entertainment.”

Onboard connectivity
Virgin Atlantic has teamed up with Panasonic and T-Mobile to offer all customers eXConnect KU Band wifi connectivity onboard its new 787 aircraft. Whether on a laptop, tablet or mobile phone, customers can connect their devices to the wireless onboard internet with just a few clicks and start surfing the web. The cost of the internet is £14.99 for the duration of your flight; however customers can browse destination and aircraft information, Retail Therapy and further Virgin Atlantic services complimentary. With power now available to every seat throughout the 787, customers don’t need to worry about losing battery and can work or play throughout their journey.

Let us entertain you…
The 787 Dreamliner sees Virgin Atlantic role out Vera Touch 2 in-flight entertainment system throughout all cabins, boasting over 400 hours of carefully curated, on demand award-winning entertainment.

The cutting-edge next generation eX3 system from Panasonic features a widescreen smart monitor at all seats with a capacitive touchscreen interface allowing passengers to access content in just a few swipes and clicks. The IFE also boasts a new Skymap from Betria Interactive delivering a captivating 3D experience, infused with interesting and detailed point-of-interest content that can engage the passenger in a rich and informative interactive experience. All seats boast an integrated USB port allowing passengers to power their own devices. New to the Upper Class cabin is a 24” touchscreen monitor over the bar showing looped animations that complement the cabin environment, as well as the option to view the innovative map on a larger screen.

But first let me take a #SkyhighSelfie….
Virgin Atlantic is also introducing the ultimate #SkyhighSelfie, which offers customers the opportunity to update Facebook free of charge from the air. Developed in conjunction with Wavealot, this bespoke application will allow customers to check in on Facebook and share their location with their friends and followers mid-flight. The app will allow one check in per person and customers can purchase the wifi to continue the conversation. Virgin Atlantic is also developing certain #SkyhighSelfie spots in the cabin to offer customers the chance to take the perfect selfie onboard and share their experience. The app will also act as a mile high discussion forum where customers on the flight can chat and spark debate in the air.

Tokyo and Lake Forest, CA | July 23, 2014– Skymark Airlines, Japan’s third largest airline, has chosen Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s (‘Panasonic’) global connectivity service, eXConnect, to provide its passengers with free-of-charge in-flight Wi-Fi service.

Passengers will be able to stay on top of current events as they surf the web, keep in touch with friends and family through their social networks, and even check email and send the latest edits to their upcoming sales presentation to their colleagues – all at 35,000 feet.

For domestic routes, Skymark Airlines will introduce this free service on its fleet of new Airbus A330s. They will also expect to offer this same free-of-charge Wi-Fi experience on their international A380 fleet that will be initially flying to North America.

Mr. Shinichi Nishikubo, President and Chief Executive Officer of Skymark Airlines said, “Our customers love in-flight Wi-Fi, and today, we are taking a strategic step forward to ensure that our passengers can be both entertained and productive everywhere our aircraft fly. We look forward to launching this extremely exciting service with our partners at Panasonic Avionics.”

Paul Margis, President and Chief Executive Officer for Panasonic said, “We continue to see rising demand for connectivity from airlines across the globe because today’s travellers expect to be perpetually connected — even when they fly. We are honored to have been chosen by Skymark to support their unique business model and their vision for in-flight entertainment.”

This story begins with press release and finished with an email interview. We thought our readers would find the company interesting and their wireless product even more so. We think we have a scoop for IFExpress readers with this one!

AirFI Press Release

Apparently the AirFi product is just that, Wi-Fi in a box – it has thin air between it and the airplane – it’s a portable wireless solution for aircraft with the battery, server, Wi-Fi transmitter, and antenna(s) in the box – no wires to power or anything for that matter. IFExpress got wind of the story via a press release and when we read it we were a bit perplexed.  For certain, we think this is a business jet solution, but from the interview we understand the targeted application is commercial aircraft. Why had we not seen a wireless Wi-Fi solution coming?  We do not know, but it is here and IFExpress has the story – sort of…

We contacted the company and they told IFExpress:

“AirFi is a box, no cables attached, that is 100% portable. The box is made in such a way that 3 boxes fit into 1 trolley drawer. The crew activates the box and places it inside one of the overhead bins. The box does not provide Internet downlink, nor does it provide streaming content but does provide many other features. The box creates a WiFi network inside the plane. In case the plane is larger then a 737 multiple boxes are needed. The boxes connect with each other creating one network (www.airfibox.com). The AirFi box can also work in conjunction with the Connected Crew product (www.miairline.com/story)” (Editors Note: As an aside, the application video for the Connected Crew product is a very clever use of “fixed frame” animation that tells the story of how the company’s information product works on the plane – we like it!)

To get a bit more information about the system after viewing the above and visiting their website, we sent an email list of questions and got a few answers from Job Heimerikx at AirFi:

Q: Is the box image you sent to IFExpress the server?
A: “Yes, it is the server, the power supply, the WiFi transmitter, everything. There is no additional hardware.”

Q: How many boxes are needed on the aircraft (boxes per seats)?
A: “The current box serves up to 80 simultaneous users. Considering average use, a 737 320 type of ac requires 1 box.”

Q: Do you have any electronic spec sheets?
A: “Yes, but we do not share the doc for publication for commercial reasons. The box is classified as T-PED.”

Q: What about servers, antenna’s and so on?
A: “They are inside the box.”

Q: Really!
A: “The server is inside the box. Power is 100% battery. This enables us to provide WiFi without certification and ac adjustments. Battery with full use will last around 14 hrs.”

Q: Has the box(s) been certified… is it flying… with whom?
A: No certification is needed. There is no connection to the plane therefore falls under T-Pad. It has been tested with one of our customers who at this time wishes to stay unpublished.

Q: Are you willing to share cost per seat served?
A: No, I am sorry… the box costs around 2-3K EURO’s per year, excluding content, however, hardware services all inclusive.”

Q: What OS are you running?
A: Any, iOS, Window, Android…”

Q: What is the server size?
A: Storage? Adjustable… more then sufficient for our purpose…

Q: How is data loaded? How does that happen?
A: Multiple ways:
a) At the logistics center when charging the battery via WiFi
– or –
b) Via the Connected Crew tablets of the crew (in case Connected Crew is used in conjunction with AirFi, and only for specific information)
c) Information can be uploaded by the airline, by ourselves or one of our content partners/airline content partner.

Q: Will you folks be at AIX in Hamburg?
A: “Martjin Moret (CTO) will be at the AIX show and will be happy to show you the solution in detail.” (Editors Note: Best to send a meeting request to the AirFi folks via their website contact link. Further, you can reach Marjtin at martjin.moret@miairline.com or call +31 6 29349628

Alerts:

• Apologies to everyone left off our AIX Crystal Cabin list we included last issue, there are actually a total of 56 finalists – you can find all of them here with some pictures to boot!

• The Panasonic folks have graciously given our readers the opportunity to view 5 tech papers/presentations that are incredibly interesting and were given at an ICSSC meeting and focus on the high thru-put capability of Ku-band vs Ka-band – you need to read them:

1. The eXConnect Broadband Aero Service
2. ICSSC Designing Satellites for the Broadband Aero Market
3. ICSSC High Throughput Ku-band for Aero Applications
4. MILCOM 2012 High Throughput Ku-band Satellites for Aero
5. Panasonic ICSSC slides

Lake Forest, CA | December 23, 2013– Panasonic Avionics has signed a definitive agreement with China Telecom Satellite Communications Limited to jointly develop, implement and support in-flight connectivity solutions for Chinese airlines.

The agreement will also make possible the provision of in-flight broadband connectivity to Panasonic’s 39 customer airlines when flying into and over China. As part of the agreement China Telecom Satellite will operate a teleport in Beijing, China to service the aeronautical broadband service for Panasonic.

Now the new teleport is ready for service and will launch the service commercially following the final approval from the People’s Republic of China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).

Panasonic Avionics’ eXConnect system uses its global Ku-band aeronautical satellite network to deliver inflight broadband connectivity, enabling passengers to access the internet, compose and send email or log onto their favorite social media sites.

Paul Margis, CEO of Panasonic Avionics, says: “Over the past six months since we announced the MOU with China Telecom Satellite, we have made great progress and now have completed the cooperation agreement. Now we are collectively ready to begin this very important service to our airline customers and their passengers. This is a very important accomplishment and we thank China Telecom Satellite for their excellent contribution.”

Lv Junli, President of China Telecom Satellite, says: “We are very pleased to announce this great milestone of progress with our partner Panasonic. We are very pleased to work with Panasonic to provide inflight communications to both international and Chinese airlines.”

The parties plan to begin offering inflight connectivity services as soon as all necessary approvals are in place.

Lake Forest, CA | July 25, 2013– Panasonic Avionics has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China Telecom Satellite Communications Limited (China Telecom Satellite) to jointly develop, implement and support in-flight connectivity solutions for the Chinese market.

The signing of the MOU will also make possible the first ever provision of in-flight connectivity to Panasonic’s 36 non-Chinese customer airlines when flying into and over China.

Panasonic Avionics’ eXConnect system uses its global Ku-band aeronautical satellite network to deliver in-flight broadband connectivity, enabling passengers to access the internet, send email or log onto their favourite social media sites.

Paul Margis, CEO of Panasonic Avionics, says: “While there is still work to be done in order to complete the cooperation agreement, we have made great progress with China Telecom Satellite towards providing this very important service to our airline customers and their passengers. We believe China Telecom Satellite will be a very strong and effective partner for China’s in-flight communication market.”

China Telecom Satellite stated: “We are very pleased to partner with Panasonic Avionics as they have an established track record and are a proving to be strong provider of high-quality in-flight communications services to both international and Chinese airlines.”

Both parties are working to complete their formal contract over the coming weeks and plan to begin offering commercial in-flight connectivity services in the fourth quarter of 2013.

— Alliance to expand companies’ terminal and services businesses into new market

Fairfax, VA | July 16, 2013– Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Panasonic Avionics Corp. are preparing to open a new market for Panasonic’s secure, satellite-based, in-flight broadband service known as eXConnect. Under a new agreement, Boeing will offer eXConnect service to government customers within and outside the United States.

Panasonic eXConnect is the industry leader in commercial, worldwide broadband for in-flight connectivity. While final terms are still being negotiated, the companies have agreed on a framework for Boeing to offer the eXConnect service and sell aeronautical terminals to the government market, including the Panasonic eXConnect terminal being deployed commercially today.

“This alliance will expand Boeing’s ability to offer in-flight broadband to government aircraft operators, many of whom operate Boeing aircraft, with a competitively priced service,” said Paul Geery, vice president of C3 Solutions for Boeing Electronic & Information Solutions. “The eXConnect service will augment other Boeing C4ISR capabilities, providing customers with seamless situational awareness.”

“By combining the strengths of our global Ku-band aeronautical network with Boeing’s extensive experience working with secure network customers such as the U.S. government, we will together be able to provide significantly improved service to this important industry,” said Paul Margis, president and CEO of Panasonic Avionics Corp. “We look forward to working with Boeing to offer in-flight connectivity to this exciting market.”

Panasonic Avionics Corp. 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 improved-quality communication systems and solutions and lower overall costs.

Hamburg, Germany | April 8, 2013– Passengers on six different aircraft flying over five different continents will connect via Twitter to deliver the world’s first global in-flight ‘Tweetathon’ using Panasonic Avionics Corporation technology.

Using the hashtag #High5Live, the passengers will interact with each other – and their earth-bound Twitter followers – while on separate flights all across the globe.

The event will be unveiled at the opening day of the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg on Tuesday, April 9, where Panasonic will launch the Tweetathon as the six flights take to the skies.

The passengers will be onboard flights from New York to Sao Paulo; Frankfurt, Germany to Seattle Washington; Abu Dhabi, UAE to London; Dublin to New York; Tokyo to New York; and San Francisco to Sydney.

The ability to connect via Twitter is made possible by Panasonic’s eXConnect technology, which delivers high-speed wireless broadband for Internet and data services. This allows passengers to use social media, access the Internet, and send and receive emails mid-flight.

With Panasonic’s services, for the first time it is now possible for truly global communications between passengers to take place from an altitude of 35,000 feet. Passengers will use either their own personal devices such as computers, tablet computers, iPhone®* devices, BlackBerry®** smartphones and more to connect over the aircraft’s eXConnect Wi-Fi systems. Passengers also have the ability to surf the Internet, watch live sports, news and other content with Panasonic’s eXTV service, and send and receive email.

The Tweetathon will be launched at 10.00 hours Central European Time during the Aircraft Interiors Expo, where 8,000 attendees are expected.

David Bruner, Panasonic’s Vice President of Global Communications, said: “The Tweetathon is an exciting and innovative way to demonstrate just what is possible today from your seat on an aircraft. Airlines around the world are now embracing this technology and passengers are accepting it as second-nature.”

“This is a great world-first which we are proud to deliver. It shows we are well on the road to having global connectivity in the air that matches what can be achieved on the ground.”

The Twitter traffic from the passengers’ Tweets will be displayed on large screens in and around the Panasonic exhibition booth throughout the five hour Tweetathon.

Fellow exhibitors, media and Expo attendees – as well as Tweeters worldwide – are invited to join the Tweetathon using the #High5live hashtag.

For more information, visit www.panasonic.aero/Events/Press/High5Live.aspx

ATLANTA, Oct. 20, 2010 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] Business Jets today announced the first certification and installation of Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s in-flight wireless high-speed broadband service, eXConnect, on a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) 737 aircraft.

As part of the installation agreement, Panasonic will use the privately owned BBJ for ongoing testing and validation, as well as for live demonstrations. The system supports a wide range of passenger and crew applications including very high speed internet access to passengers anywhere in the world at speeds of up to 50 MBps to the aircraft.

“The eXConnect system installed on the Boeing 737 continues to exceed our expectations, and we are very excited to show customers, OEMs and other groups the true broadband experience made possible by our Ku solution,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer, Panasonic Avionics Corporation.

The fuselage-mounted antenna communicates through a global network of satellites and provides higher data rates than tail-mounted antennas traditionally used on business aviation aircraft. The BBJ is ideally suited to carrying a larger and more capable antenna than traditional sized business jets so global coverage is possible.

“Since its introduction to the market, the Boeing Business Jet has always provided something more than the traditional corporate jet manufacturers have been able to provide – more space, more comfort, more productivity and more utility,” said Boeing Business Jets president Steve Taylor.

“Panasonic’s new high speed data system opens up a new capability to our customers that will help satisfy the growing need for passengers to be connected all the time, including in the air,” said Taylor.

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.
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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.
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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:
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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.�
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“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.”

HAMBURG, Germany – 01 April 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 entered into multi-year agreements with five major television news groups to provide live news and information via its proprietary Panasonic Airline Television Network. The licensed news organizations are Al Jazeera, BBC World News, the BLOOMBERG TELEVISION® network, euronews and France 24. Discussions are ongoing with additional broadcasters with details soon to be announced.

As a component of the Panasonic eXConnect in-flight broadband system, a part of the Panasonic Global Communications Suite, the Panasonic Airline Television Network is a global TV broadcast system designed to provide passengers with live news, information and events wherever the aircraft flies. At its heart is the first worldwide in-flight television distribution system powered by the same Ku based satellite network as the eXConnect service. This Panasonic proprietary network delivers a seamless passenger experience across multiple regions and provides airlines with revenue generation opportunities through advertising insertion and pay-per-view capabilities. The Panasonic Airline Television Network utilizes the same antenna and onboard components as the eXConnect broadband system, minimizing hardware and installation costs to the airlines.

“The Panasonic Airline Television Network will strengthen our customers’ ability to provide the best in-flight entertainment by engaging recognizable, branded content providers that appeal to a wide demographic of passengers,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “In addition, Panasonic is excited to work with these global broadcasters as they extend their channels’ distribution to the airborne market.”

The licensing agreements with the five broadcasters range from 3-5 years with flexible terms for extension. “The long-term stability of the Panasonic Airline Television Network from a content perspective is a fundamental strategy at Panasonic Avionics,” Margis said. “Our goal is to provide our customers with a compelling offering within the Panasonic Global Communications Suite. Therefore, we have structured the Panasonic Airline Television Network with the ability to add channels on a global or regional basis, depending on our customers’ specific requirements and business needs.”

As a standalone system or integrated into existing in-flight entertainment systems, the Panasonic Global Communications Suite enables personal connectivity through the following components:

• eXConnect in-flight wireless high-speed broadband Internet and data services that provide access to live and cached content for passengers and operational information for the flight crew
• eXPhone in-flight mobile phone service using the passenger’s own GSM phone
• Panasonic Airline Television Network in-flight global access to live broadcast television

For more information, please visit our booth located in Hall B6 #6F25.

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 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.

About Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera started out over twelve years ago to providing comprehensive, independent television news and live debate for the Arab world.

Providing a voice to the voiceless and putting real people back at the center of the news agenda, Al Jazeera has been credited with revolutionizing the broadcast industry in the Arab world. Today, the channel that sent waves through the Arab world has become a global brand recognized around the world.

The Al Jazeera Satellite Channel has an estimated peak audience of over 50 million viewers and has been ranked by brandchannel.com as the most recognizable and influential news brand globally. With more than 40 bureaus and dozens of correspondents covering events around the world, and the freedom to operate with complete editorial independence, Al Jazeera has given millions of people a refreshing, impartial take on the events that affect their lives.

In addition to news and current affairs, the Al Jazeera Satellite Channel has a variety of live, interactive talk shows, including the Opposite Direction, Without Borders, More Than One Opinion, From Washington and Open Dialog, which give Arab audiences a unique opportunity to provide their personal insights and comments on the issues that matter to them.

About BBC World News
BBC World News, the BBC’s commercially funded international 24-hour news and information channel, is owned and operated by BBC World News Ltd, a member of the BBC’s commercial group of companies. BBC World News attracts 78 million viewers a week, is available in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide, and reaches 287 million households and close to 1.7 million hotel rooms. The channel’s content is also available on 80 cruise ships, 43 airlines, 36 mobile phone networks and a number of major online platforms including bbc.com/news. For further information visit bbcworldnews.com.

About the BLOOMBERG TELEVISION® Network
The BLOOMBERG TELEVISION® 24-hour network broadcasts to more than 200 million homes worldwide. BLOOMBERG TELEVISION programming is created exclusively by Bloomberg news professionals in more than 140 bureaus. The dynamic BLOOMBERG TELEVISION screen adds depth and context to on-air reports, providing viewers with interactive charts, breaking news, market prices and indexes in real time gleaned from the news, data and analytic tools of the BLOOMBERG PROFESSIONAL® service.

About euronews
Launched in January 1993 euronews covers world affairs from a European perspective. euronews is broadcast 24 hours a day, simultaneously in eight languages: Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Russian.

euronews presents a complete news bulletin every half hour, followed by in-depth programmes business, europe, sport, a review of press headlines from Europe’s major dailies, and the weather forecast.
euronews’ feature programmes cover a wide range of topics including science, cinema, fashion, new technologies, and space.

euronews is broadcast all over the world, reaching 253 million households in 142 countries by cable, digital satellite and terrestrial distribution. The channel is also available on mobile operators (3G, VOD), on ADSL/High Speed Internet networks, and live on board the aircraft of international airlines. Viewers can watch euronews on their PDAs and live on the Internet in Europe on RealNetworks Superpass. euronews and no comment TV are also available on YouTube and Dailymotion.

euronews is the most-watched international news channel in Europe: every day, 2.8 million Europeans watch euronews on cable and satellite, while another 3.6 million watch on terrestrial channels (Source: euronews/Telmar Peaktime©, evaluation system based on viewers audience, 4th quarter 2008).

About FRANCE 24
FRANCE 24 is the French international news channel that offers a French perspective and sensibility on world events. It broadcasts on a 24/7 basis on three channels, in French, English and Arabic, in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and on the east coast of the US. FRANCE 24 can be accessed by cable, satellite, DSL and on mobile. The website www.france24.com is available in three languages (English, French, Arabic).