Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) has selected Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s latest Inflight entertainment solution, Astrova foe its 3o aircraft fleet, 12 Airbus A330s and 18 Boeing 777s.
Every passenger will have up to 100 W of direct current power, via USB-C, at their seat – providing the ability to fast charge every current phone and tablet, and around 90% of the world’s laptops. Panasonic Avionics’ newest IFE seat-end solution also features programmable LED lighting that will enhance the passenger experience and enable SAUDIA to optimize the cabin environment.
Delighted to sign the partnership with SAUDIA, Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said: “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.”
Commenting on the partnership, Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General, SAUDIA Group, said: “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.”
Besides Panasonic Avionics is working with SAUDIA to develop IFE maintenance capabilities its Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI). Panasonic Avionics aims to enhance SAEI’s repair capabilities, training its technicians and introducing new technology.
“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,” Al-Omar added.