Astrova seat-end solution to deliver immersive passenger experiences and drive innovation while reducing fuel burn, in collaboration with SAUDIA and SAEI.
Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic Avionics) and Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) have entered into an agreement to install the Astrova seat-end solution on a potential 30 aircraft. Panasonic Avionics is a renowned provider of In-flight Entertainment and Communication Systems (IFEC), while SAUDIA serves as Saudi Arabia’s national flag carrier.
Astrova, Panasonic Avionics’ next-generation IFE seat-end solution, introduces a new dimension to seatback IFE and offers airlines enhanced opportunities to engage with their passengers. Under the agreement, SAUDIA’s widebody aircraft fleet, consisting of 12 Airbus A330s and 18 Boeing 777s, will undergo Astrova retrofitting.
Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said, “We are delighted to sign this agreement with our longstanding customer, SAUDIA. The installation of Astrova on their wide-body fleet indicates the airline’s commitment not only to sustainability, but also to its customers and the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision. Astrova provides SAUDIA with an innovative IFE solution that will enhance engagement with its passengers and is easy to upgrade without full or costly interior changes.”
Through this partnership, Astrova aims to create a fully immersive experience for SAUDIA’s guests. It features industry-leading 4K OLED screens with exceptional high-definition capabilities, providing the best picture quality. Additionally, Panasonic Avionics’ latest Bluetooth technology ensures high-quality audio delivery. The system allows guests to seamlessly connect their personal devices to the IFE system, offering a familiar omnichannel, multiscreen environment akin to their homes.
This collaboration aligns with SAUDIA’s commitment to delivering top-notch services and staying at the forefront of consumer trends in in-flight entertainment. The Astrova system’s hardware and software components have been designed to evolve over time, adapting to changing market requirements and meeting the increasing expectations of guests. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for passengers throughout the system’s lifespan.
His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group, said, “At SAUDIA. we are constantly looking to improve the guest experience onboard our aircraft, by investing in new technologies and upgrading our systems. Thanks to this partnership with Astrova, our guests will be able to experience the best of in-flight entertainment, with more personalizable features, making their journey with us truly memorable.”
“As SAEI expands, their commitment to localization continues to grow as they collaborate with several companies to enhance the capabilities of their technicians. Panasonic Avionics’ work with SAEI will be instrumental to the local market, as it will open up jobs for Saudis while providing repair capabilities not only in the Kingdom but to the MENA region as a whole. In addition, this partnership contributes to the Nartaqi program, which is an initiative by SAUDIA aimed at driving localization by supporting the greater use of local suppliers and local businesses whilst providing quality jobs, training and development opportunities for Saudi nationals,” he futher added.
Moreover, the Astrova seat-end solution contributes to SAUDIA’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. Its lightweight architecture results in significant weight savings compared to other systems, leading to reduced fuel consumption.
Furthermore, Panasonic Avionics is partnering with SAUDIA’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) company, Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI), to develop IFE maintenance capabilities within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This collaboration allows SAEI to enhance its repair capabilities, train technicians, and adopt state-of-the-art technology, furthering the localization objectives of both Panasonic Avionics and SAUDIA.
The agreement with SAUDIA aligns with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s 2030 Vision, a comprehensive initiative aimed at empowering citizens and businesses, diversifying the economy, supporting local content, and fostering innovative opportunities for the future.
Read More Stories…Airbus to provide cabin upgrade solutions for ITA Airways A350 fleet
Astrova exemplifies Panasonic Avionics’ market approach and its commitment to developing products and services that help airlines achieve higher net promoter scores, enhance passenger engagement, increase revenue, and improve operational efficiency through IFE and connectivity. Designed with modularity, scalability, and flexibility in mind, Astrova addresses the needs of modern airlines operating in a fast-changing market. Its key hardware and software components can adapt to changing market requirements and meet the growing expectations of passengers. For instance, the system includes a removable peripheral bar, providing airlines with the flexibility to add, upgrade, or remove features such as USB power, Bluetooth audio, and other options easily.
