Singapore Airlines has signed a MOU with Panasonic Avionics to explore opportunities related to Panasonic’s Global Communications Services. Panasonic’s global connectivity service offers higher bandwidth for a lower cost per bit than previous solutions using VHF or L-band services, and as a result, offers new opportunities to further improve airline operations and reduce expenses, according to the company.
With the signing of the MOU, the two companies will look to use Panasonic’s Global Communications Services to streamline operations across key areas including:
• Enhance the passenger experience with greater levels of personalisation, more robust infotainment
• Increase cabin crew and flight deck efficiency with live customer relations management, electronic flight bag, operations and maintenance air-to-ground communications, and real-time information about icing, turbulence and other critical weather updates
• Tie broadband-equipped aircraft into the airline operations network to improve aircraft location monitoring and view aircraft speed, altitude and other performance parameters in real time
• Deliver real-time aircraft health monitoring, engine data transmission, critical systems monitoring, and detection and communication of issues prior to arrival
Panasonic and Singapore Airlines also announced a long-term ‘Power By The Hour’ maintenance contract covering the maintenance, repair and support of Panasonic IFE equipment through 2024. The Singapore-based Panasonic and SIAEC joint venture, Panasonic Avionics Corporation Services Singapore (PACSS) will play a central role in the execution of this agreement.