Panasonic Avionics announces expansion to SATCOM network for in-flight connectivity

IRVINE, Calif., - Panasonic Avionics Corporation in Irvine, California announced an 50% capacity expansion of its global connectivity network with the addition of new and expanded GEO [geostationary] Ku-band satellite capacity that delivers higher-speed in-flight internet connections for airlines and their passengers.

Panasonic Avionics is also expanding its current capabilities by introducing additional high-throughput satellite (HTS) capacity over China and Japan, building on existing connectivity investments in this region.

This expansion represents a 50% global capacity increase; accelerated speeds of up to 75 Mbps per aircraft through HTS and up to 200 Mbps through XTS satellites; and expanded network coverage that offers enhanced connectivity to both domestic and international travelers.

Panasonic Avionics says a phased deployment plan is in place, with completion by the end of 2023.

"For the past few years, we have seen exponential growth in the adoption of in-flight connectivity," John Wade, vice president of Panasonic Avionics’ in-flight connectivity business unit, says. "Passengers want faster internet speeds for traditional services like email, web browsing, social media and messaging, and they are increasingly looking to stream content, play games inflight, and use collaborative cloud-based applications. This major expansion of our global connectivity network will ensure that Panasonic Avionics consistently exceeds the growing demand for these kinds of enhanced in-flight experiences."

He continues, "Given our unique approach to satellite capacity, and with our multi-layered, multi-orbit connectivity network, Panasonic Avionics has the unique ability to leverage a wide range of different, industry leading satellites, rather than the high-risk approach of relying solely on proprietary satellite technology. This enables Panasonic Avionics to add new capacity quickly and easily when and where it’s needed, ensuring we can deliver an advanced and virtually uninterrupted service. The result is a better experience for passengers and higher Net Promoter Scores (NPS) for airlines."