Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems (AES) has been appointed by six “major North American airlines” to line-fit and retrofit its Empower in-seat power systems on up to 1,400 narrow-body aircraft and regional jets between 2018 and 2023. Every passenger on these aircraft will have access to 110VAC and high-output USB power, as will the crew at the cabin crew stations.
According to Peter J. Gundermann, president of Astronics Corporation, these fleet upgrades are an indication of the increasing trend for airlines to provide in-seat power on narrow-body and regional aircraft. “Carriers worldwide are responding to passenger requests for power at the seat so they can use their personal electronic devices to fully enjoy the streamed in-flight entertainment and upgraded connectivity systems provided by the airlines, while remaining fully charged when they land,” he stated.
