Panasonic Avionics Corp. signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) to install its eXConnect in-flight connectivity system on aircraft operating on the airline’s domestic, pan-European and intercontinental flights.
While final terms are still being negotiated, the LOI allows the parties to immediately begin developing the plan to deploy Ku-Band-based eXConnect, and the eXPhone product delivered in collaboration with AeroMobile, across SAS’ fleet with installations to begin in fall 2011.
"SAS is proud to become the first airline in the world to put a true end to ‘Flight Mode’ on Scandinavian and European as well as intercontinental flights together with Panasonic. SAS’ new in-flight connectivity options will include state of the art communication services, innovative entertainment options in addition to true broadband connectivity for both mobile and wireless computer usage. It follows our constant focus on finding innovative ways to improve the travel experience for all our customers," says Robin Kamark, Chief Commercial Officer, SAS.
Panasonic’s eXConnect system provides two-way broadband connectivity to an aircraft. The company’s eXPhone product, offered in collaboration with AeroMobile’s in-flight mobile phone service, will allows SAS passengers to use their mobile phones, smart phones and BlackBerry devices onboard to make and receive voice calls if selected by the airline, send and receive SMS text messages, and use GPRS services such as email and internet access.