July 14, 2016 – China Eastern Airlines has increased its commitment to Panasonic Avionics, signing up for global broadband connectivity services to 84 total aircraft.
The Chinese carrier, in partnership with China Telecom Satellite, was the first to offer broadband wi-fi connectivity on flights over Chinese airspace, and this agreement strengthens its long-term relationship with Panasonic. The extended agreement – following the announcement of 20 Boeing 777-300ERs last November – includes 35 line-fit aircraft and a retrofit program covering an additional 49 aircraft.
Paul Margis, president and CEO of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, stated, “We have been helping China Eastern Airlines offer connected flights since November 2015 and remain the only provider operating over China today. Passengers increasingly expect the availability of reliable broadband wi-fi around the world and the roll out of this service across the China Eastern fleet will enable it to provide a connected service for its passengers”.
Aircraft types included in the agreement are:
• One B737-800 (retrofit)
• Four B767-300s (retrofit)
• Two B767-300ERs (retrofit)
• 20 B777-300s (line-fit)
• 31 A330-200s (retrofit)
• 11 A330-300s (retrofit)
• 15 A330-300s (line-fit)