Singapore Airlines (SIA) signed a $400 million agreement with Panasonic Avionics to install in-flight entertainment and communications (IFEC) systems for more than 40 Airbus and Boeing aircraft in its fleet.
The agreement will make SIA the launch customer for Panasonic Avionics’ ex3 IFEC system on its fleet of A350s, scheduled for delivery beginning in 2014.
SIA’s existing aircraft are powered by the KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system, which is powered by Panasonics’ ex2 platform.
SIA said enhancements are planned for its existing KrisWorld systems prior to the launch of the new ex3 system.
The ex3 system provides broadband Internet access for all passenger wireless devices, mobile phone services and a global live television service.
“SIA has always been a leader in providing the best in-flight entertainment to our customers but we need to constantly innovate to stay ahead of the competition. The contract with Panasonic Avionics will help us do just that,” said Tan Pee Teck, senior vice president at SIA.
The agreement with Panasonic is the latest in SIA’s efforts to revamp its IFE offering—last week the South Asian carrier launched OnAir in-flight connectivity service for its fleet of Airbus A340-500s.