August 20, 2016 – AeroMod International and SITAONAIR have announced a partnership to install SITAONAIR wireless IFE services on Philippine Airlines aircraft. A rapid installation program will be implemented, which will see AeroMod International deploy a consistent cabin experience across Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) fleet.
AeroMod, a specialist in avionics and aircraft structural modification and repair services, commenced installation of the SITAONAIR wireless IFE system on PAL’s Airbus A321 fleet in July. Under the program, the airline will have one wireless IFE-installed aircraft returned to service every day.
Above: A PAL A321 jet undergoing the rapid-installation of SITAONAIR’s wireless-IFE systems. PAL is receiving one wireless IFE-installed aircraft back in service every day
“This agreement with a worldwide aircraft connectivity leader such as SITAONAIR capitalizes on our growth to provide operational support to customers around the world,” stated AeroMod president, Gary Girard.
Market analysis by AeroMod reveals that only 13% of non-US airlines have wireless IFE fully deployed. Despite this, a recent SITA survey of passengers worldwide showed IFE is now more commonly consumed via wi-fi on a personal device, rather than on the aircraft’s seat-back screen (46% vs 44%, with 10% using both). Additionally, two thirds (65%) of passengers would choose to access it via their own devices if wireless IFE was available.
Above: A tablet linked to PAL’s wireless-IFE portal
“86% of passengers take a smartphone onto a plane and they would prefer to also use them to access IFE. These networks therefore need to be highly robust in order to deliver HD quality video to all passengers,” said David Lavorel, CEO of SITAONAIR. “AeroMod has an enviable track record for installations that are both of exceptional quality and are turned around quickly, getting the planes back in the air as soon as possible.”
AeroMod relocated its corporate headquarters to Orlando Melbourne International Airport in April. Its new 114,000-square-foot site takes advantage of Melbourne’s position as the fastest growing aviation and aerospace manufacturing center in the USA.
“Our new facility was designed to offer connectivity and IFE installations significantly faster than other MROs,” added Girard. “To prevent fleet-planning disruption, we can also adapt to customers’ needs and send a qualified team to the customer’s chosen location, anywhere in the world, as we have been doing for Philippines Airlines.”
Below: An AeroMod engineer performing the rapid installation of SITAONAIR’s wireless-IFE systems
