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Jun 28, 2005 07:32AM
June 2005 – Jan 2003
JUNE 2005
Song Launches Record Label
Song, Delta Air Lines’ low-fare carrier, in May is launching Song Records in association
with Creative Branding (an entertainment strategic ventures company), Gary Stiffelman,
(a high-profile music attorney), and music label Artemis Records.
Connexion Unveils Real-Time TV Content
Connexion by Boeing announced the four channels of real-time television programming
it will offer when the service is introduced early this summer on select Singapore Airlines
flights.
WestJet Boeing Fleet Offers Real-Time TV Cabinwide
Canadian low- fare carrier WestJet has completed the installation of LiveTV equipment
providing up to 24 channels of Bell ExpressVu real-time television programming
cabinwide on its fleet of 39 Boeing 737-700 aircraft.
Pacific Blue & Jetstar Launch Digeplayer
Pacific Blue (Virgin Atlantic’s New Zealand-based low fare carrier) and Jetstar (Qantas
Airways’ low cost domestic airline) in May introduced the Wencor digEplayer hand-held
digital AVOD device, providing a selection of movies, children’s favorites, recent
television programs, and music videos.
IFE Important To Biz Travelers According To Recent Study
Inflight entertainment and communication are “extremely or very desirable” attributes to
business travelers when selecting an airline according to the recently-released Yesawich,
Pepperdine, Brown & Russell 2005 National Business Travel Monitor™.
MAY 2005
Connexion Marks One-Year Anniversary On Lufthansa
To commemorate its one-year in-service anniversary on Lufthansa German Airlines,
Connexion by Boeing will provide one week of free Internet access on all equipped
Lufthansa flights during the week of May 17-23.
Delta Beta Finds Cable Lighter Than Wireless
Delta Beta In-Flight will use Tensolite’s light- weight Netflight® network cables in its
IFE systems, according to Henry DeBey, Delta Beta President and CEO. Tensolite, a
Carlisle company with offices around the world, designs and manufactures highperformance
wire and cable and connectors.
First BGAN Voice Call Over Inmarsat Connected
The first BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) voice call over the new Inmarsat-4
satellite was made on 28 April using a prototype terminal of Nera, a Norwegian
manufacturer.
Independence Air Offers digEplayer™
Independence Air beginning this month is offering the Wencor/APS digEplayer™ handheld
AVOD system on all US transcontinental flights between Washington Dulles and
the West Coast.
Formation & IMS Partner For Terminal Data Loader
Formation, Inc. and IMS Inflight have partnered to deliver the Terminal Data Loader
(TDL) developed by IMS to American Airlines and Virgin America, the first airlines to
adopt this technology.
ANA Receives First 777 With Production-Line Connexion
All Nippon Airways (ANA) on 5 May took delivery of its second Boeing 777-300ER
(Extended Range) aircraft equipped with the Connexion by Boeing inflight high-speed
connectivity system, the first of its aircraft with the system installed on the production
line.
Flight Attendant Assn/Consumers League Sponsor
Poll that Shows Pax Support Inflight Ban on Cell Phones
Sixty-three percent of air travelers support the ban on cellular telephone use inflight,
according to a poll sponsored by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA and the
National Consumers League.
Virgin Blue To Offer LiveTV
Australian low-fare carrier Virgin Blue in third quarter of this year will offer 24 channels
of inflight satellite television across its fleet of 51 Boeing 737 aircraft via LiveTV, LLC.
Ryanair Discontinues digEplayer™ Test
Ryanair in April ended inflight trials of the Wencor/APS digEplayer™ handheld AVOD
system, citing poor passenger uptake that failed to produce expected revenue generation.
Icelandair Selects digEplayer™
Icelandair beginning 18 May will offer the Wencor/APS digEplayer™ handheld AVOD
system on its Boeing B767 and B757 aircraft. The players will be offered free in business
class and will rent for US$15.00 in economy.
Thai Launches Non-Stop Bangkok-NY With AVOD
Thai Airways International on 1 May will launch non-stop Bangkok-to-New York flights
on Airbus A340-500 aircraft featuring AVOD capability cabinwide.
Etihad Chooses Thales TopSeries™ IFE System
Etihad Airways will install Thales’ TopSeries™ AVOD IFE system cabinwide on five
Boeing B777, 14 Airbus A330, eight A340, and four A380 aircraft.
Kingfisher Takes Delivery Of A320
Kingfisher Airlines, the new low- fare domestic India carrier, on 25 April took delivery of
its first aircraft, an Airbus A320 equipped with personal video screens at every seat. The
airline is scheduled to launch 9 May.
Jazeera Airways Selects Rockwell IFE
Jazeera Airways, a Kuwait-based privately-owned airline to begin operation in October,
will install Rockwell Collins’ PAVES® (Programmable Audio Video Entertainment
System) IFE system on four new Airbus A320 aircraft.
April 2005
Panasonic Avionics Intros Portable IFE Player
Panasonic Avionics Corporation will launch the first in a “family” of Portable Media
Players (PMPs) in the latter half of 2005.
Delta Beta Offers Airlines Guaranteed Revenue from Inflight E-Commerce System
Delta Beta is launching JetStream, an inflight e-commerce service, and offering to pay
airlines a guaranteed rental fee to trial the service on their installed IFE systems.
Iberia To Launch First Swift64 Service
Iberia Lineas Aereas de España soon will be the first airline to introduce Inmarsat’s
Swift64 (64kbit/s) satellite data service (delivered by ARINC Inc.) in commercial
operation.
Wencor Launches Embedded IFE System
Wencor this month launched the digEsystem™, an embedded version of the digEplayer
hand-held AVOD device. The company unveiled a prototype of the system at the WAEA
25th Annual Conference & Exhibition 21-24 September 2004 in Seattle.
Virgin America Commits To IMS Data Loader
Virgin America has selected IMS Inflight’s terminal data loader (TDL), providing
onboard content loading and wireless gate communications.
Jetstar And Pacific Blue Offer digEplayer
Pacific Blue (Virgin Atlantic’s New Zealand-based low fare carrier) and Jetstar (Qantas
Airways’ low cost domestic airline) will offer the Wencor digEplayer hand-held digital
AVOD device, providing a selection of movies, children’s favorites, recent television
programs, and music videos.
Jet Airways And Harmony Airways Offer Pea; Valuair Tests Device
India-based Jet Airways and Canadian carrier Harmony Airways will offer IMS Inflight’s
personal entertainment appliance (Pea), hand-held AVOD system, according to Alan
Pellegrini, IMS CEO.
Freedom Air Tests Hand-Held DVD Players
Freedom Air, New Zealand based low- fare carrier, beginning 7 April is testing renting
hand-held DVD players and films from Blockbuster video rental company on flights to
and from Auckland.
OnAir Partners With Airbus Kid-Systeme To Develop Inflight Cell Phone System
OnAir has chosen Airbus’ wholly-owned subsidiary KID-Systeme to design, develop and
certify a system that will allow passengers to use their personal mobile phones inflight.
ARINC/ Telenor Unveil New AeroMobile™ Brand, Partners
ARINC Inc. and Telenor, partnering to offer a service that will let passengers use their
personal mobile phones inflight, on 5 April branded their service AeroMobile™. They
also named two partners ip.access™ and VT Miltope.
SAS To Launch New Seats With AVOD In 2006
Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) in early 2006 will launch new lie-flat seats in
business class on A340 and A330 aircraft. The seats will include an AVOD IFE system
with a 10.4-inch personal video monitor.
Gulf Air Launches Refurbished A330 With Panasonic IFE System
Gulf Air on 28 March launched its upgraded First and Business Class cabins installed
with the Panasonic 2000E IFE system on the first of six Airbus A330 aircraft. The
upgrade of all six aircraft is expected to be completed in July 2005 and cost US$10
million.
Air Canada Adds Premium Economy Class With IFE
Air Canada this month is introducing a premium economy class, named Club Class
International on two Boeing 767-300 and 10 B767-200 that will operate internationally.
Lufthansa Offers Connexion to 50% of US Gateways
Lufthansa German Airlines said it will soon offer FlyNet™, which includes real-time
broadband connectivity via the Connexion by Boeing service, on flights to half of its
North American gateways.
Air France & Malaysia Airlines Choose Thales IFE System for A380s
Air France and Malaysia Airlines have selected the Thales TopSeries™ i-5000 AVOD
IFE system, which also features a broadband gigabit Ethernet network, for installation on
their Airbus A380 aircraft on order.
Saudi Arabian Selects ASI for Inflight Connectivity
Saudi Arabian Airlines has chosen the ASiQnet inflight broadband e- mail, Internet, and
SMS system developed by ASiQ Pty Ltd (a wholly owned subsidiary of ASI
Entertainment Inc.). Details of the contract and installation will be announced shortly
according to Ron Chapman ASI’s CEO.
AA Launch Customer for IMS Onboard Terminal Data Loader
American Airlines is the launch customer for IMS Inflight’s terminal data loader (TDL),
providing onboard content loading and wireless gate communications.
Matsushita Avionics Changes Name
Matsushita Avionics Systems Corp. on 1 April will be renamed Panasonic Avionics
Corp. as part of an over-all name change by umbrella company Matsushita Electric Corp.
of America.
CanJet Offers digEplayer
CanJet Airlines, a low- fare carrier based in Nova Scotia, on 25 March introduced the
digEplayer™ handheld digital AVOD system (developed by APS and e.Digital
Corporation).
AirCell To Demo Inflight Broadband & Wi-Fi Cabin
AirCell in July will begin inflight demonstrations using a prototype of the AirCell
Broadband System that allows airline passengers to use their personal mobile phones and
other wireless devices inflight. The AirCell system uses a dedicated terrestrial broadband
air-to-ground link.
ARINC Demos Inflight Cell Phone Solution at Opening of New Office
ARINC in conjunction with the opening of its new UK facility on 22 March
demonstrated its Mobile Connectivity system that will let passengers use their personal
cell phones and wireless devices inflight.
Emirates Receives B777-300ER With ice IFE
Emirates last week took delivery of the first of its 30 new Boeing 777-300ER (Extended
Range) aircraft equipped cabinwide with i c e, the airline’s Information, Communication,
and Entertainment services.
El Al Re-brands New IFE
El Al Israel Airlines in June will introduce newly branded IFE options on all routes
between Israel and the US.
Malaysia Officially Launches Reconfigured Aircraft with AVOD
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on 22 March officially
launched “Malaysia Airlines: An Experience Redefined,” a comprehensive aircraft cabin
upgrade of 17 Boeing 777-200 and 17 Boeing 747-400 aircraft, which began in
December 2004.
UAL Offers p.s. Premium Service Coast-to-Coast
United Airlines in March announced that premium domestic service “p.s.” (SM) is now
available on all of its transcontinental, non-stop flights between New York and
California.
March 2005
VARIG Phases in Hand-Held Pea AVOD System
VARIG Brazilian Airlines on 8 March launched the first phase of its roll-out of IMS
Inflight’s Pea (personal entertainment appliance) hand-held AVOD system.
SIA Launches Connexion Service
Singapore Airlines (SIA) on 7 March launched the Connexion by Boeing inflight highspeed
connectivity service on its daily Singapore-London route. SIA will introduce the
service progressively on other long-haul flights.
Virgin America Selects Under-Floor IFE System
Virgin America, the new US low-cost airline that plans to begin operation this year, has
selected the Inflight Canada iCACHE under- floor IFE installation system.
KLM Pax Send Messages With OnAir
The send and receive e-mail and text messaging capability KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
will offer inflight beginning mid-March will use OnAir technology via the Matsushita
Avionics Systems Corporation (to be re-named Panasonic Avionics Corp. 1 April) 3000i
AVOD platform.
Delta Beta Offers Touch-Screen Messaging
Delta Beta has integrated its Series 9000 IFE system with the Sagem Avionics RCOM-
100 satellite transceiver to allow passengers to send and receive e-mails and short
messaging service (SMS) messages inflight using the system’s in-seat monitor.
Inmarsat Launches Satellite For Global Broadband
Inmarsat on 11 March launched its first Inmarsat-4 satellite, the first of two planned to be
launched in 2005, to deliver the company’s Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN)
next-generation mobile satellite communications service.
Air France Orders Four More B777-300ERs
Air France recently ordered four additional Boeing 777-300ER aircraft equipped with the
Rockwell Collins Enhanced Total Entertainment System (eTES), with delivery to begin
in April 2006.
Jazz Gets First AVOD-Equipped RJ Aircraft in May
Jazz, part of the Air Canada “family” will take delivery of its new Bo mbadier CRJ 705
aircraft in May, the first Air Canada aircraft equipped with the new AVOD system in
both classes of service. The IFE vendor will be released at a later date.
El Al To Offer Connexion Service
El Al Israel Airlines will install the Connexio n by Boeing real-time broadband
connectivity service on its long-haul fleet beginning in the second half of 2005.
Installations are expected to be complete by 2007.
Verizon to Phase-Out JetConnect E-mail/SMS Service
Verizon Airfone by July 2005 will phase out the JetConnect Service, currently providing
e-mail, instant messaging and text messaging capability on Continental Airlines, United
Airlines, and US Airways.
Midwest To Offer digEplayer
Midwest Airlines by early April will offer the digEplayer™ handheld AVOD system on
all Saver Service flights and select Signature Service flights of more than 2.5 hours.
ANZ Adds New Class of Service
Air New Zealand has added Pacific Premium Economy Class to its Business Premier and
Pacific Econo my classes offered with the airline’s retrofit of Boeing 747-400 and eight
new Boeing 777-200 aircraft this year.
First Choice Airways Intros AVOD Via MAS IFE System
First Choice Airways, a charter carrier based at Manchester Airport, in May will launch
the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS) eFX IFE system in both classes of
service (Star Class and Star Class Premier) on its Boeing 767 fleet.
Song Features Oscar-Nominated Films in March
Song this month is offering passengers 10 pay-per-view films that include the current
Oscar contenders Sideways, Ray, Being Julia, Closer, and Finding Neverland.
February 2005
OnAir As Standard Option on New Airbus Aircraft
OnAir, the joint venture of Airbus, SITA, and Tenzing Communications, will provide
inflight connectivity as a standard option on all new Airbus aircraft, including the A380,
the company announced on 15 February.
AirTran Launches Satellite Radio
AirTran Airways on 8 February celebrated the official roll-out of its new XM Satellite
Radio service onboard.
ARINC/Telenor Sign With Altobridge For GSM Connectivity
ARINC, Inc. and Telenor signed a technology contract with Altobridge Ltd., securing
what they call “a major element” of their GSM (global system for mobile) connectivity
solution for the use of personal cellular phones inflight.
Astronics Acquires General Dynamics IFE
Astronics Corporation, a leader in advanced, high performance lighting and electronics
systems for the global aerospace and defense industry, has acquired substantially all the
assets of Airborne Electronic Systems (AES), the subsidiary of General Dynamics
dealing with IFE products.
Ryanair “Disappointed” by IFE Trial
Ryanair’s initial inflight trial of the APS digEplayer™ hand-held AVOD system has been
“disappointing,” according to the airline and unless there is a significant improvement in
customer usage, plans to roll out the system across the fleet will be scrapped.
Gallup Poll Shows Pax Oppose Lifting Cell-Phone Ban
Passengers do not want airlines to lift the ban on personal cell-phone use inflight
according to a Gallup poll conducted 7-9 January.
Lion Air To Install SkyWay IFE System
IBISES International has chosen the SkyWay Communications Media Server II and dropdown
display screens for installation on five MD-80 aircraft for Jakarta-based Lion Air.
Lion Air is the first international carrier to install the system.
SAS Dedicates ‘Connexion’ Aircraft to Seattle/Asia Routes
Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) this week began flying dedicated aircraft equipped
with the Connexion by Boeing (SM) wireless real- time inflight connectivity service on
flights between Seattle, Washington and Copenhagen, Denmark and Asia and
Copenhagen, according to Terrance Scott, Director of Communications for Connexion.
Airbus A380 Unveiled
Airbus unveiled its new A380 super-jumbo aircraft in Toulouse, France on 18 January.
Southwest Teams with Movielink to Offer Laptop “Film Downloads” To Pax
Southwest Airlines and Movielink, the broadband video-on-demand service offering
movies for legal download, on 25 January launched a co-branded film downloading
service exclusively for Southwest customers.
KLM Intros SMS Inflight
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will offer inflight send and receive e- mail and text messaging
capability cabinwide beginning mid-February on its Boeing 777 aircraft equipped with
the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS) System 3000i AVOD platform.
Stellar & InterAct Merge
To Form Full-Service IFE Provider
Stellar Inflight and InterAct Network Inc. have merged to form StellarInteract, a fullservice
IFE provider combining Stellar Inflight’s expertise in audio programming and
custom productions with InterAct Network’s specialization in innovative video
programming concepts.
January 2005
FCC Relaxes Policy on Inflight Cell Phone Use
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at a 15 December meeting issued a
decision to consider relaxing its current ban on the use of cellular telephone on airborne
aircraft.
FCC To Auction Air-to-Ground High-Speed Spectrum
The US FCC at its 15 December meeting adopted what it calls a “flexible approach” for
auctioning licenses for the four MHz of spectrum in the 800 MHz band currently
dedicated to commercial air-to-ground (ATG) service.
Cathay Offers CABLE TV News
Cathay Pacific Airways on 1 January added Hong Kong Cable Television Limited
(CABLE TV) News to the News and Sport channel of its Studio CX IFE system.
JetBlue Calms Pax with Color
Beginning this month, JetBlue customers on select flights can tune into a free dedicated
digital video channel featuring Colorcalm™ “Skies,” the first in a series of calming color
programming.
December 2004
China Airlines to Install Connexion High-Speed Service
China Airlines (CAL) will begin installation of Connexion by Boeing’s real-time, highspeed
inflight connectivity service on the airline’s long-haul fleet of Boeing B747-400
aircraft in the second quarter of 2005.
Thales and Tenzing Sign MOU for Connectivity Services
Thales and Tenzing Communications Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) that will integrate Tenzing’s low-speed proxy services (Tenzing’s existing e-mail
and messaging service) and high-speed Internet services (to be introduced in 2005) to
Thales’ TopSeries IFE platform.
Delta Beta Intros Solid-State AVOD System
Delta Beta In-Flight, Inc. in November introduced its new 9000Si series fully solid-state
AVOD IFE system.
ASI Releases Connectivity System
ASI Entertainment, Inc. this week released ASiQnet, its low-cost airborne connectivity
system that provides e-mail and Internet access inflight via the certified global Inmarsat
network.
Turkish Airlines Offers MAS AVOD
Turkish Airlines is receiving five new Airbus A330 aircraft and retrofitting seven A340s
with the Matsushita Avionics Systems 3000i AVOD platform cabinwide. Lie- flat seats
will be installed in business class on the aircraft.
SilkAir to Offer digEplayer
SilkAir, Singapore Airlines’ regional carrier, and APS have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) to provide the digEplayer 5500TM handheld AVOD player for
selected SilkAir flights beginning in January 2005.
Jetstar Asia Considers Pay-Per-Use IFE
Jetstar Asia, an international regional extension of Jetstar, the low-cost carrier launched
by Qantas this year, is considering introduc ing IFE on a pay-per-use basis, according to
COO Con Korfiatis.
JAL & SAS LAUNCH CONNEXION SERVICE INFLIGHT
Japan Airlines (JAL) on 9 December launched the Connexion by Boeing real- time, highspeed
connectivity service on flights between Tokyo and London.
Song Unveils New IFE On First International Route
Song, Delta Air Lines’ one-class low- fare carrier, 1 December unveiled its audio/video
on demand (AVOD) IFE capability when it launched its first international route between
New York and Nassau, Bahamas.
AA Raises Headset Fee
American Airlines on 1 December increased the price of headsets from US$2.00 to
US$5.00 to off-set expenses and increase revenue, according to an airline spokesperson.
SIA Selects Connexion With Broadcast TV
Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Connexion by Boeing have signed a definitive agreement
for the installation of Connexion’s high-speed inflight connectivity service on the
carrier’s long-haul fleet.
Qantas Launches Shanghai Flights With eTES
Qantas Airways on 3 December launched non-stop flights between Australia and
Shanghai, flying new two-class Airbus A330-300 aircraft equipped with the Rockwell
Collins eTES™ (Enhanced Total Entertainment System).
KLM To Offer Messaging Services Via MAS Systems 3000i
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will offer inflight send and receive e- mail and text messaging
capability via the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS) System 3000i AVOD
platform installed cabinwide on all Boeing B777 and Airbus A330 aircraft. The service
will be available on the B777s beginning in early 2005 and on the airline’s new A330s
beginning in August 2005.
Matsushita Avionics To Change Name
On 1 April, Matsushita Avionics Systems Corp. will be renamed Panasonic Avionics
Corp. as part of an over-all name change by umbrella company Matsushita Electric Corp.
of America. The name change is being made to give the company a more recognizable
association to the brand name of many of its products.
TED Evaluating ‘Portable IFE’ Trial Results
Ted, United Airlines’ low- fare carrier, in association with InMotion Pictures, an airport
DVD-rental company, from 15 October to 15 November tested renting portable DVD
players to passengers on flights between Denver, CO and Orlando, FL. The airline is
reviewing continuing the test, according to Dan Callahan, UAL’s Manager, Inflight
Entertainment Planning and Design.
AirTran To Re-Launch Inflight Magazine
AirTran Airways has chosen Ink Publishing of London to produce the airline’s inflight
magazine, which will re- launch as Go in February 2005. Go will be published every two
months until August when it will be distributed monthly.
Thales Demos TopSeries AVOD Systems At Airbus Hamburg Lab
Thales has successfully demonstrated its TopSeries i-5000 AVOD system to Airbus
A380 program leaders at the airframer’s Hamburg test lab.
FCC Addresses Airline -Related Issues at Open Meeting
The US Federal Communications Commission on 15 December held an open meeting
during which it addressed several issues of importance to the airline industry.
November 2004
SIA To Launch Connexion’s Live TV
Singapore Airlines will be the launch customer for Connexion by Boeing’s live television
offering probably in May 2005, according to Stan Deal, Connexion’s Director of
Commercial Services.
Air Canada To Offer AVOD Cabinwide, Considering Broadband
Air Canada on 19 October announced it will install a new IFE system providing AVOD
capability to passengers cabinwide on both North American and international flights.
Malaysia Launches Reconfigured Aircraft with MAS 3000
Malaysia Airlines in December will begin operations of the first of its 17 reconfigured
Boeing 777-200 aircraft equipped with the Matsushita Avionics System (MAS)
System3000 AVOD platform throughout the aircraft.
Monarch Airlines to Offer digEplayer
UK-based leisure carrier Monarch Airlines beginning 1 November will offer APS’
digEplayer™ hand-held AVOD system in premium class on medium and long-haul
flights.
North American Airlines to Offer digEplayer
North American Airlines (NAA), a US-based low-fare carrier that has been operating
since 1990, will offer APS’ digEplayer™ on select flights to Hawaii beginning 4
November.
Air Arabia Receives A320 Equipped With MAS IFE System
Air Arabia, United Arab Emirates-based low- fare carrier, has taken delivery of a new
Airbus A320 aircraft equipped with the Matsushita Avionics System (MAS) IFE system.
Qantas Intros Children’s Entertainment
Qantas Airways has introduced a variety of children’s products and services onboard to
help make traveling easier and more enjoyable for families.
Thales Ships TopSeries to Airbus
Thales will ship its TopSeries i-5000 IFE system to Airbus for installation on the OEM’s
first A380 test flight aircraft. Installation will be completed by July 2005.
Wencor Acquires APS
Wencor, a Utah-based distributor of aircraft products and parts, has acquired APS,
supplier of the digEplayer portable AVOD system, in late October for an undisclosed
price.
Virgin Blue To Intro Satellite TV Inflight
Virgin Blue, a low- fare carrier based in Australia, has joined forces with Australian
subscription television providers FOXTEL and AUSTAR and US-based LiveTV to
introduce satellite television onboard by mid 2005.
ANZ Tests Portable DVD Players
Air New Zealand beginning 7 November began testing hand-held portable DVD players
in addition to existing IFE on flights between Melbourne and Auckland.
UAL Offers Hand-Held DVD Players in Premium Service “p.s.” on Transcon
Flights
United Airlines on 29 October launched premium domestic service, “p.s.”, providing
hand-held DVD players to premium class passengers and more room throughout the
cabin on Boeing 757 aircraft flying US transcontinental routes.
Qatar Gets New A330-300 with MAS 3000i AVOD System
Qatar Airways in October received its first of 14 Airbus A330-300 aircraft equipped with
the Matsushita Avionic System (MAS) 3000i AVOD IFE system cabinwide.
Ryanair Explores Adding Gaming
Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O’Leary said he plans to introduce inflight gaming
options by summer of 2005.
Royal Brunei Intros Service to Sydney with AVOD
Royal Brunei Airlines on 31 October introduced its first service to Sydney, Australia,
flying the airline’s newly refitted Boeing B767-300 aircraft. The aircraft is equipped with
the Thales TopSeries i-4000 audio/video on-demand (AVOD) system.
Connexion To Use Teleglobe for Pacific Coverage
Connexion by Boeing will use Teleglobe International Holdings Ltd. ground station
services to provide satellite uplink and downlink to aircraft enabling Connexion’s highspeed
Internet access inflight throughout the Pacific region. The ground station services
are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2005.
Miltope and Colubris Intro 54 Mbps Wi-Fi Capability
VT Miltope and Colubris Networks jointly have developed a 54 Mbps Wi-Fi (wireless)
device that provides high-speed, secure, wireless network connectivity inflight on
commercial aircraft worldwide.
SkyWay Selects Cisco Wireless LAN/VoIP
SkyWay Communications Holding Corp. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, SkyWay
Aircraft Inc., have selected Cisco Systems Inc. to provide its Cisco Aironet wireless local
area network (LAN) Access Points for implementation of SkyWay`s inflight wireless
communications.
October 2004
AA Tests PEA
American Airlines in November will begin a three-month test of Innovative Media
Solutions’ (IMS’) Portable Entertainment Appliance (PEA) hand-held AVOD system.
Connexion to Offer Broadcast TV Mid 2005
Connexion by Boeing confirmed they intend to offer four channels of broadcast
television programming in mid 2005.
Ted Teams with InMotion to Test DVD Rental
Ted, United Airlines’ low- fare carrier, from 15 October to 15 November will rent
portable DVD players on flights between Denver, Colorado and Orlando, Florida.
Airbus Tests Cell Phone s Inflight
Airbus in September successfully completed an inflight trial of GSM mobile phone usage
for both voice communications and text messaging. The tests were conducted onboard an
A320 aircraft flying above Toulouse, France.
ANA Selects Rockwell PAVES System
ANA (All Nippon Airways) has selected Rockwell Collins’ PAVES™ IFE system for
installation on four Boeing 737 aircraft with the potential for 41 additional orders.
Delivery is scheduled to begin in October 2005.
ARINC, Inc. & Telenor Demo Inflight GSM Phone Solution
The ARINC/Telenor Mobile Connectivity system, which uses existing Inmarsat satellite
equipment currently installed on most long- haul aircraft and a picocell system, is
expected to be priced well under US$100,000 per aircraft. Charges to passengers are
expected to be similar to international roaming charges, about US$3.50 per minute for
voice calls and US$1.00 per text message. Passengers will be billed through their existing
cellular phone account.
Company Formed by SITA, Airbus, and Tenzing Named OnAir
OnAir will be the brand name of the range of passenger communications services to be
launched by the new company formed by SITA, Inc., Airbus, and Tenzing. OnAir will
offer both voice and data cabin connectivity services worldwide for both long- and shorthaul
fleets. From the outset, OnAir will offer in-seat telephony allowing e-mail, SMS
(short messaging service), and text messaging from passengers` laptops. In 2005, OnAir
will include access to corporate virtual private networks (VPNs) and Internet browsing
capabilities. Mobile telephony, which will let passengers use their own cellular phones to
send and receive calls and text messages, is expected in 2006.
ASI Entertainment Completes Flight Testing
ASI Entertainment in September successfully completed flight testing of its inflight
connectivity solution onboard Saudi Arabian Airlines. ASI is in negotiations with the
airline to equip their international fleet.
ARINC, Inc. Demos SkyLink
ARINC, Inc. demonstrated its Commercial SKYLink™ broadband solution with a live
Ku-band satellite link that provides a range of passenger applications and 802.11b/g
wireless Internet access. SKYLink™ also delivers applications for the electronic cockpit.
Commercial SKYLink™ will offer 5 Mbps to the aircraft and 256 Kbps off-aircraft.
SKYLink satellite coverage will go live over North America in April 2005. Coverage
expansion is planned in 2005 to include airlines` North Atlantic routes, Europe, and the
Middle East.
Row 44 To Offer Broadband Connectivity in North America
Row 44, in an agreement with Hughes Network Systems, will offer DIRECWAY
broadband satellite connectivity to North American commercial and business aircraft.
Row 44 will provide up to 30 Mbps via its patented system that includes a lightweight
low-profile radome and antenna that is only three inches thick, and a self-contained
positioning and attitude reference platform. The system supports both wired and wireless
(Wi-Fi 802.11) installations and is fully ITU compliant. System testing is targeted for
early 2005.
AirTV Signs Satellite Launch Agreement
AirTV signed a launch service agreement with Arianespace to orbit its first broadband
spacecraft, which the AirTV system will use to provide 60+ channels of live television
(in multiple languages) and 40 Mbps of Internet, e- mail, and data services to aircraft. The
AirTV1 satellite, which will initiate AirTV`s commercial operations for airlines flying
between the US, Europe, and the Middle East, will be orbited in 2007 and is to be
positioned over the North Atlantic. Additional spacecraft will be launched to provide
global coverage.
ARINC & IMS Partner To Deliver Internet Via PEA
ARINC, Inc. has partnered with IMS to deliver broadband Internet via the IMS PEA™
laptop personal entertainment appliance. The PEA, which is a handheld device preloaded
with movies, games and television content, is configured with 802.11 capability
and a keyboard to deliver SKYLink™ wireless Internet service onboard aircraft.
JetBlue Adds Television Channels
JetBlue Airways has expanded its offerings to 36 channels of digital DIRECTV®
programming broadcast in real- time to every seat and free of charge for all customers.
The airline also announced plans to add feature films and satellite audio IFE options in
the future.
Virgin To Offer GD`s YES!
Virgin Atlantic Airways will offer the General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems
YES! Solo handheld AVOD system onboard Boeing 747-400 aircraft beginning this
month.
KLM, Ryanair & Aeroflot to Offer digEplayer™
Ryanair, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Aeroflot will offer the APS digEplayer550™
hand-held AVOD entertainment unit to passengers. The digEplayer™ can be
programmed with more than 64 movies, as well as television shows, cartoons, and music
selections.
Asiana Chooses SITA SMS Service
Asiana Airlines has chosen SITA`s AIRCOM short messaging service (SMS) that allows
passengers to send and receive text messages and e- mails inflight from their IFE screens.
The service will be installed on the airline`s Boeing 777-200 fleet.
Malaysia Airlines To Offer SMS
Malaysia Airlines will equip 17 Boeing 747-400 and 15 B777-200 aircraft with SITA`s
AIRCOM short messaging service (SMS), allowing passengers to send and receive text
messages and short e-mails inflight.
Lumexis Demos Fiber Optic Network
Lumexis Corporation demonstrated its NexGen2™ fiber optic network that eliminates the
under-seat electronics box for IFE systems.
Installed Version of digEplayer
e.Digital & APS unveiled a working prototype of an installed version of APS`
digEplayer™. The new installed IFE system is an independent AVOD system that is not
dependent on a central server.
MAS To Install eFX on Independence Air
MAS (Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation) will install its eFX system on
Independence Air`s new fleet of Airbus 319 aircraft. eFX will offer passengers
throughout the cabin 24 channels of digital, broadcast satellite television, digital video
and audio programming, MAS` iXplor moving map, and other premium applications. The
first installation is set for the end of this year.
Connexion & NTT DoCoMo Launch Inflight Roaming Service
Connexion by Boeing and NTT DoCoMo, Inc. on 22 October will launch a roaming
service to enable users of NTT DoCoMo’s Mzone™ wireless LAN service to connect to
the Connexion inflight high-speed Internet service.
Cathay Expands Inflight Shopping
Cathay Pacific on 4 October unveiled a record 174 items available for sale in the latest
October-December issue of Shop, the airlines inflight shopping magazine.
September 2004
Thales Demos TopSeries i-5000
Thales on 14 September demonstrated its TopSeries i-5000 IFE system in a 555-seat
configuration at its Irvine, California facility, the world’s largest A380 IFE engineering
test lab.
SAA Completes Upgrade on A340s
South African Airways has completed the upgrade of its Premium Business Class on its
A340-600 and A340-300 aircraft flying between South Africa and the US.
Northwest Launches A330 to Japan
Northwest Airlines flew a new Airbus A330-200 aircraft equipped with Matsushita
Avionics Systems’ (MAS) System 3000i when it launched its first flight between the
West Coast of the US [Portland, Oregon] and Tokyo earlier this month.
Finnair To Renew IFE on MD-11,
Finnair in 2005 will install new IFE video monitors and lie- flat seats in business class on
six Boeing MD-11 aircraft that fly intercontinental routes.
SAA Selects Rockwell IFE System
South African Airways (SAA) has taken delivery of the first two of 11 Airbus A319s
installed with the Rockwell Collins Programmable Audio Video Entertainment System
(PAVES™).
Cathay Pacific Offers Nintendo Games Onboard
Cathay Pacific Airways added 31 popular Nintendo® games to its StudioCX IFE offerings
beginning 1 September.
bmi Pax Are Booked
bmi and Random House Audio have joined forces to offer passengers on transatlantic
flights “Booked Up With Random House,” a spoken-word audio channel.
Gulf Air Upgrades Premium Classes
Gulf Air will invest US$10 million to upgrade its first and business class seats and IFE
across its A330 fleet.
Asiana Chooses Connexion by Boeing
Asiana Airlines has signed a Letter of Intent to install Connexion by Boeing’s high-speed
inflight connectivity service onboard its long-haul fleet. The first installation is scheduled
to begin with Asiana’s new Boeing 777-200ER aircraft targeted for delivery in July 2005,
with service beginning shortly after that.
Connexion & iPass Expand Wi-Fi In The Sky
An agreement between Connexion by Boeing and iPass Inc. will provide access to
Connexion by Boeing’s secure inflight wireless Internet connectivity through the iPass
Global Broadband Roaming (GBR) network.
General Dynamics Ups AC Power
General Dynamics is offering “FUSION,” a next-generation in-seat power supply that
provides up to 225 watts of 110 VAC power.
India Brewery Plans to Launch Low Fare Airline With IFE
United Breweries (UB) Group of India in January 2005 plans to launch a budget airline
offering AVOD throughout the one-class “Funliner” cabin configuration.
UAL & Starbucks Cooperate on Ray Charles Tribute
An inflight audio and video tribute to Ray Charles marks the first collaboration under a
new three-year supply and cooperative marketing agreement between United Airlines and
Starbucks Coffee Company. The agreement is an extension of their on- going relationship.
August 2004
Airbus, SITA, & Tenzing Form New Company
Airbus, SITA, Inc., and Tenzing Communications announced they will form a new
company to provide services that will allow passengers on both Airbus and Boeing
aircraft to communicate inflight via their personal mobile phones, laptops, and personal
digital assistants (PDAs). SITA will be the majority shareholder of the new company.
Emirates Launches Wi-Fi Onboard
Emirates on 1 July launched onboard wireless (Wi-Fi) hot spots on its new A340-500
aircraft, allowing passengers cabin-wide with 802.11b-enabled laptops to access their
regular e- mail accounts while inflight. Tenzing Communications Inc. software powers the
service and networking connectivity.
AA/QUALCOMM Demo Inflight Cell Phone Use
As reported in the 16 July issue of WIN, American Airlines and QUALCOMM
Incorporated on 15 July conducted a proof of concept flight demonstrating their solution
to allow passengers to use their personal cell phones inflight to make voice calls and send
and receive text messages.
Emirates Selects MAS As Sole IFE System Supplier
Emirates has signed an agreement with Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS)
that makes MAS the sole supplier of IFE systems to Emirates’ fleet, which will total 169
aircraft by 2012.
General Dynamics Develops Handheld Yes! IFE System
General Dynamics (GD) has developed YES! Solo, a handheld version of their YES! inseat
IFE system.
Hawaiian Airlines Commits to digEplayer
Hawaiian Airlines has committed to purchase 1,500 digEplayers from APS and beginning
this month will offer the players on transpacific flights. digEplayers will be offered free
in first class and for a US$10.00 rental fee in coach class.
Boeing Selects Thales Power
Boeing has selected Thales to supply the electrical power conversion system (PCS) for
the 7E7 Dreamliner, which is expected to go into production in 2006.
Connexion Signs Siemens as First Global Corporate Customer
Connexion by Boeing has signed Siemens AG, one of the world’s largest global
electronics and engineering companies, as its first global customer for real-time, highspeed
inflight connectivity service.
Emirates Chooses B/E Aerospace for First Class Cabins
Emirates has chosen B/E Aerospace, Inc. to design, manufacture, and deliver First Class
Suites for 31 A380-800 aircraft on order to be designed in a three-class configuration.
Emirates has ordered a total of 43 of the new aircraft.
ASI Offers Free E-Mail Access Inflight
ASI Entertainment in fourth quarter 2004 will release www.freemailconnection.com, a
web portal that allows passengers to access their e- mail headers free of charge while
inflight.
UAL Offers New Premium Service on Transcon Flights
United Airlines beginning 18 October will introduce premium domestic service, “p.s.”
(SM), providing hand-held DVD players to premium class passengers and more room
throughout the cabin on Boeing 757 aircraft flying US transcontinental routes.
Virgin Atlantic Offers Onboard Language Courses
Virgin Atlantic Airways beginning 1 August is offering language learning courses as part
of audio IFE on the airline’s V:Port AVOD system.
BA to Upgrade B767 Fleet With Rockwell TES
British Airways will upgrade its fleet of 10 Boeing 767 aircraft from 2004 into 2005,
installing Rockwell Collins’ TES (Total Entertainment System) IFE platform and
reconfiguring the aircraft cabin, according to Karen Flynn, Entertainment Programming
Executive.
Qantas Flies A330-300s on International Routes
Qantas Airways on 10 August began operating its three new Airbus A330-300 aircraft on
international routes, initially flying to Hong Kong from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
and Perth.
Starling Tests Broadband Antenna for Single-Aisle Aircraft
Starling Advanced Communications successfully demonstrated its ultra-low-profile
broadband antenna “MIJET” that has the capability to simultaneously transmit and
receive Ku-band data at rates up to 10 Mbps globally.
Rockwell Tests Multi-Regional SAT TV System
Rockwell Collins has successfully completed initial flight tests of its Tailwind 500 multiregional
satellite television system onboard a Challenger 604 aircraft.
Airbus Evaluates New Foldable Seat
Airbus, in conjunction with German engineering company AIDA Group, is evaluating a
new foldable economy class passenger seat.
July 2004
ARINC and Telenor Intro Inflight Cell Phone Technology
New technology that will allow passengers to use their personal GSM (Global System for
Mobile) mobile phones inflight on commercial airplanes will be marketed by ARINC
Incorporated and Telenor ASA, a major GSM cell phone operator in Europe and the Far
East and ARINC’s long-standing partner for Inmarsat satellite communication services.
Thales’ TopSeries to be Installed on Bangkok Airways
Thales Avionics Inc. in September will install their TopSeries i-2000 IFE system
providing overhead video and in-seat distributed audio, on two of Bangkok Airways’
Airbus A320 aircraft with an option for eight more planes.
IMS Intros Portable PPV AVOD System
IMS, a Southern California content management and software development company, has
designed a new Personal Entertainment Appliance (Pea) portable media system, which
they expect to trial on at least one major North American carrier this summer.
JetStar Takes Flight With Audio IFE 20 July
JetStar, Qantas Airways’ low-fare carrier, will launch the first of 23 new A320 aircraft
offering audio IFE on 20 July.
EgyptAir Launches AVOD
EgyptAir on 1 July is launching AVOD via the Matsushita Avionics System MAS 3000
IFE platform in business class on the first of seven new A330-200 aircraft, with delivery
scheduled through February 2006.
SIA Sets Long-Haul Record
Singapore Airlines (SIA) on 28 June flew its A340-500 ultra long-haul aircraft on its
inaugural non-stop flight from Singapore to New York, setting a new record for the
world’s longest non-stop commercial flight, according to the airline.
AA Trials Inflight Cell Phone Use
American Airlines on 15 July flew a proof of concept flight illustrating how passengers in
the future will be able to use their personal cellular phones inflight to make voice calls
and send and receive text messages.
SAS Begins Installation of Connexion System
Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) will begin installing the Connexion by Boeing
wireless-based, high-speed inflight connectivity service this fall. No launch date for the
service has been announced.
Lufthansa Expands Real-Time Connectivity To Asia
Lufthansa German Airlines on 21 June expanded FlyNet, the airline’s real-time inflight
connectivity service available via the Connexion by Boeing system, to flights from
Munich to Tokyo.
WestJet Launches Real-Time TV
WestJet on 4 July flew its first LiveTV-equipped Boeing 737-700 aircraft, marking the
first time inflight satellite television is available over Canada. The airline obtained
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the US Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) as well as STC approval from Transport Canada for the system.
Pax Make History with Connexion Service on Lufthansa
Two Apple product managers on 27 May conducted an air-to-ground video conference
wirelessly using Apple handheld devices and the Connexion by Boeing satellite
connectivity service onboard a Lufthansa German Airlines flight.
ASI CEO E-mails WIN While Inflight
Ron Chapman, Managing Director and CEO of ASI Entertainment, using ASI’s
Data3Mail, e-mailed WIN while inflight onboard Saudi Arabian Airlines flight 426 from
Jeddah to Manila.
Air New Zealand Unveils New Long-Haul Product;
Selects Rockwell Collins eTES IFE System
Air New Zealand announced plans for its new long- haul service, which will include
Rockwell Collins’ eTES™ (Enhanced Total Entertainment System) AVOD system.
AirCell Tests Airborne Broadband
AirCell this month successfully completed the initial phase of flight testing for its nextgeneration
airborne telecommunications link.
SWISS Installs Latest Stratos ALIS System
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), completed installation of the latest version of
Stratos Global Corporation’s Airline In-Flight Services (ALIS) system providing AVOD
capability cabin- wide on nine A340 aircraft.
Air Canada New A340-500 Aircraft Launches with AVOD Cabinwide
Air Canada will offer AVOD in both Executive First and Hospitality Service classes via
Matsushita Avionics Systems’ System3000 IFE platform when it launches its first Airbus
A340-500 aircraft on 1 August on the Toronto-Hong Kong route.
China Airlines Receives A330-300 with AVOD
China Airlines took delivery of the first of 14 A330-300 aircraft equipped with
Matsushita Avionics Systems’ System3000 AVOD IFE system.
June 2004
Cathay, China Southern & Korean Air Select Skypower
Airbus KID-Systeme has expanded its presence in Asia with the addition of three new
airline customers and additional orders from two current customers.
UAL Changes Films Twice Per Month
United Airlines, in May began changing feature films shown on overhead screens twice a
month in each direction rather than once a month. This policy is in effect on North
America, Hawaii, Alaska and select Latin America flights.
Frontier Airlines Intros Wild Blue Yonder IFE
Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Frontier Airlines in July will introduce the WILD
Blue Yonder ‘inflight experience,’ integrating a new television channel, lifestyle
magazine and interactive website, all reflective of each other, stated Cheryl Bailey,
Manager of IFE for the airline.
Continental Airlines Named OAG Airline Of The Year
Continental Airlines was named OAG Airline of the Year 2004, marking the first time a
US-based carrier won the title since its establishment 22 years ago. The award was
announced during a ceremony in London 20 May.
KLM Adds Discovery Channel To Video IFE
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will offer a dedicated Discovery Networks channel on the
airlines personal television system in business class on all long- haul international and
domestic routes.
AA Adds Power Ports On Former TWA MD-80s
American Airlines is adding more power ports and larger overhead bins on the MD-80
“Super 80” aircraft, which were formerly TWA aircraft, to bring the aircraft closer to AA
fleet standardization.
Alaska Orders More digEplayers
Alaska Airlines has ordered 620 additional digEplayer 5500 digital hand-held AVOD
players from APS under their agreement to purchase up to 6,000 units over the next five
years.
SIA Expands IFE Options
Singapore Airlines beginning this month expanded KrisWorld IFE offerings to more than
400 entertainment options on SIA aircraft installed with the Matsushita Avionics Systems
3000 AVOD IFE system.
Emirates NY-to-Dubai Service Features ‘i c e’
Emirates this month launched non-stop service from New York to Dubai using A340-500
aircraft featuring the airline’s cabinwide Information, Communication and Entertainment
system i c e.
First Choice Airways Offers Archos Hand-Held Players
First Choice Airways, based at Manchester Airport, in May 2004 became the launch
customer of the Archos handheld digital AVOD system, providing premium class
passengers up to 40 hours of programming free of charge.
May 2004
Korean Air Commits To Connexion
Korean Air will install Connexion by Boeing’s high-speed connectivity service on its
long- haul fleet of Boeing 747-400s and 777ERs beginning in early 2005, with service
beginning shortly after.
Air Canada To Offer AVOD Cabinwide On New A340-500
Air Canada will offer AVOD in both Executive First and Hospitality Service classes via
Matsushita Avionics Systems’ System3000 IFE platform when it launches its first Airbus
A340-500 aircraft on 1 August.
Inmarsat To Launch BGAN Satellites
To Deliver 432kbps Inflight
The first satellite in Inmarsat’s new Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN), which
provides 432 kbps worth of packet data capability per channel, is scheduled to launch in
fourth quarter of this year, with a second satellite set to launch in first quarter 2005.
BGAN will allow real- time e-mail, Internet, and VPN (Virtual Private Network)-type
communication inflight.
Lufthansa Launches Connexion
Lufthansa German Airlines on 17 May launches Connexion by Boeing’s real-time,
wireless-based, high-speed Internet connectivity service cabinwide on an A340-300
flying the Munich –to-Los Angeles route.
Song Offers Pay-Per-View In Second Phase Of IFE
Song, Delta Air Lines’ low-fare carrier, now offers two VOD pay-per-view feature films
onboard as part of its second phase of IFE being introduced on the airline. The films cost
US$5.00 each and are offered in addition to the “phase one” IFE offerings of 24 channels
of digital real-time television from Dish Network, 24 channels of digital audio
programming, and a multi-player interactive video trivia game that allows play between
passengers.
Advanced Medien Acquires Atlas Air Film
Advanced Medien AG, a Munich-based film financing and production company,
acquired all of the shares of Atlas Air Film + Media Service GmbH and its wholly owned
subsidiary Atlas Air Entertainment Concepts, Inc., Los Angeles. Atlas Air Film
previously was a subsidiary of Kinowelt.
SAA Launches A340-300e With AVOD
South African Airways on 1 April launched the Airbus 340-300E aircraft featuring the
Matsushita Avionics System 3000 AVOD platform cabin-wide on its New York to South
Africa route.
Jetsgo Orders digEplayers
Jetsgo, a Canadian low-fare carrie r, has purchased 1,000 of APS’ digEplayer handheld
AVOD players for their entire fleet of MD-80 “Super 80” aircraft and 18 new 100-seat
aircraft.
Rockwell Collins To Provide eOffload™ To BA
Rockwell Collins in collaboration with Innovative Media Solutions, will provide British
Airways with eOffload™, an Internet-based service that provides access to passenger IFE
usage and analysis of system information.
Gulf Air Offers BBC World Inflight
Gulf Air beginning 1 June will introduce a comprehensive 24-minute BBC daily news
program on all video-equipped aircraft. A two-hour BBC World channel, which is
updated monthly, was introduced on 1 March.
CO Offers Free IFE Bonus For Online Check-In, Expands IFE
Continental Airlines passengers who check in online and print their own boarding passes
prior to arriving at the airport can print out a coupon for a free headset onboard, a
US$5.00 value. The free headset offer applies to all customers checking in online that
have at least one of their flights scheduled on a video-equipped aircraft with a flight
duration of 1.5 hours or more.
LAN Re-Branding Reflected In IFE
LAN, which changed its name from LanChile in March, together with LanPeru,
LanEcuador and LanDominicana, has formed the LAN alliance. The alliance will
promote Latin America and seeks to reflect one united spirit, while maintaining the
individual identity of each participating airline and their respective home country.
April 2004
Royal Brunei Launches Thales AVOD System/
“Sky Dreamer” Seats
Royal Brunei Airlines became the first airline to fly the Thales TopSeries i-4000 AVOD
system on 15 March, with the introduction of the airline’s newly retro- fit Boeing 767
aircraft.
Connexion Sets Connectivity Pricing
Connexion by Boeing announced it initially will offer passengers a choice of two pricing
plans for its high-speed Internet service that will go into commercial service on Lufthansa
German Airlines later this spring.
MAS Preferred IFE Supplier On Airbus A380
Airbus has chosen Matsushita Avionics Systems, and its next-generation “eX2” IFE
system, as a preferred supplier of IFE equipment for the new A380 aircraft. Currently in
development, the eX2 AVOD system will allow passengers to search for movies by
keywords, titles, and other options.
Hawaiian Airlines Offers digEplayer
Hawaiian Airlines on 21 March began offering APS’ digEplayer 5500, hand-held AVOD
system that can hold 30 full- length feature films, television programs, music videos and
destination information as well as 10 hours of music programming.
Aloha Airlines Re-Brands Service
Aloha Airlines’ newly re-branded Navigator Class (First Class) and Voyager Class
(Coach Class) providespassengers free IFE and coincides with the start of a new menu
cycle featuring Hawaii Regional Cuisine reflecting the style of award-winning chef Alan
Wong.
Iberia Commits To Tenzing
Iberia Líneas Aéreas de España will be the launch customer for Tenzing
Communication’s new high-speed e- mail and instant messaging (IM) services when it
installs the system on the airline’s long-haul fleet of Airbus A340-600 and -300 aircraft
beginning in October 2004.
Thales System Provides Gigabit Ethernet For Airbus A380
Airbus will use Thales Avionics’ TopSeries i-5000 IFE system for proof of concept
testing on the aircraft manufacturer’s A380 flight test aircraft, number MSN 002. Airbus
and Thales will partner for the further definition, development, and manufacturing of the
system.
VARIG Chooses Interact/Access Inflight Media
VARIG Brazilian Airlines has signed a one- year agreement with InterAct Network, Inc.
in association with Access Inflight Media to oversee the airline’s feature film and short
subject acquisitions beginning 1 May.
Silkair Adds IFE
SilkAir, the regional wing of Singapore Airlines, on 8 April began offering passengers
silent short-subject video IFE on flights of two hours or more. The airline will offer a
different combination of sports, bloopers, comedies, and cartoons on inbound and
outbound flights.
Independence Air To Offer Satellite TV On A319s
Independence Air, the low-fare airline created from Atlantic Coast Airlines, will offer
more than 20 channels of live satellite television at every seat on new Airbus A319
aircraft. The new aircraft will go into revenue service with the IFE in November.
March 2004
New International Airline: RivieraJet To Launch With
Connexion by Boeing and IFE
RivieraJet Airways, a new transatlantic low-cost carrier scheduled to launch later this
year, plans to offer free IFE and Connexion by Boeing real-time satellite connectivity for
“a modest fee” cabinwide.
Ibises Installs SkyMediaCenter on Garuda
Ibises International is installing its SkyMediaCenter (SMC) 3000 system in first and
business classes on three of Garuda Indonesia’s Boeing 747-400 aircraft, with service to
begin this month.
Thales Receives Offerability From Boeing
The Thales TopSeries i-4000 system, providing AVOD, games and web-applications
with high-capacity servers, received program offerability on Boeing twin-aisle and
single-aisle aircraft following extensive testing and review of the system. Royal Brunei
Airlines will launch the i-4000 on four Boeing 767 aircraft beginning first quarter 2004,
according to Dominique Huard, Press & External Communications Manager for Thales.
Spirit To Use Investment To Increase Fleet, Add IFE
Florida-based Spirit Airlines, a privately held carrier, last week received a US$125
million equity investment, which it will use to acquire new aircraft and implement new
technologies, including the introduction of IFE. The investment comes from a group of
new investors led by California-based Oaktree Capital Management LLC and makes
them the majority stockholders.
Verizon Slashe s Inflight Call/JetConnect Rates;
Pax Receive Mobile Calls on Inflight Phones
Beginning this month, Verizon Wireless customers can make inflight calls for a reduced
fee using a Verizon Airfone® handset and receive calls from on-the-ground callers who
are dialing the user’s mobile phone number.
Air Berlin Launch Customer for AirTrack Moving Map System
Air Berlin, will be the launch customer of AirTrack™, a new moving map system
developed by Lufthansa Technik AG and TEAC Aerospace.
Ted Tests digEplayer
Ted, United’s low- fare carrier, is testing customer reaction to the APS digEplayer™
hand-held AVOD system, offering more than a dozen films, digital music, sitcoms,
cartoons, and travel information.
Korean Air Commits Investment in IFE
Korean Air, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary, will invest a total of 10.6 trillion
won (US$9 billion) over the next 10 years to renovate and modernize its 117 aircraft fleet
with the installation of a new audio/video on demand (AVOD) IFE system in first class,
the redesign of its cabin interiors and the introduction of a new line of first-class and
business-class seats.
IFE Installation on Song Fleet Nears Completion
Song™, Delta Air Lines’ one-class, low- fare carrier, said installation of the Matsushita
Avionics Systems Corporation (MASC) eFX™ IFE system will be completed across the
entire 36 Boeing 757 aircraft fleet by 31 March. Installation of server technology to the
airline will begin installation in April.
US Airways Express Expands Cell Phone Policy
US Airways Express has expanded its onboard cellular phone policy to allow passengers
to use their cell phone s, two-way pagers, and personal digital assistants onboard aircraft
with 20 or more seats while taxiing to the gate, when advised by the flight crew.
Frontier Airlines Expands Cell Policy
Frontier Airlines altered its cell phone policy to allow passengers to utilize cell phones
onboard the aircraft prior to takeoff and upon landing. The policy, which has received
approval from the FAA, applies to all Frontier aircraft at all US airports.
Garuda Indonesia To Install Ibises SkyMediaCenter on Airbus
Garuda Indonesia this summer will install Ibises International’s SkyMediaCenter (SMC)
3000 IFE system on six Airbus 330 aircraft, according to Garuda Maintenance Facilities
(GMF) AeroAsia, the maintenance facility for the airline.
New UK-Based Carrier To Offer Free IFE
Flyblu, a new transatlantic carrier to be based in Birmingham, UK, plans to launch this
summer offering passengers high-quality IFE, free drinks, and more legroom.
China Airlines To Offer SMS
China Airlines (CAL) plans to offer Internet services allowing passengers to send short
messaging service (SMS) or access online entertainment on the two new Boeing 747 and
three Airbus A330-300 aircraft to be delivered beginning this year.
Bmi Receives First A319 in Move to All-Airbus Fleet
bmi british midland has taken delivery of the first of six Airbus A319 aircraft in a move
toward a single aircraft type short-haul fleet.
February 2004
ANA To Install Connexion Real-Time Connectivity System
All Nippon Airways (ANA) has signed a definite service agreement with Connexion by
Boeing for the installation of Connexion’s real- time connectivity system on the airline’s
long- haul fleet.
Ted To Launch This Month With IFE
Ted, United Airlines’ low cost airline, is set to launch 12 February, offering passengers
two-way e- mail capability via Verizon Airfone’s JetConnect service as well as free
overhead video IFE and distributed audio programming.
Virgin Intros Audio Meditainment
Virgin Atlantic Airways, beginning1 February will add Meditainment, an inflight audio
meditation program, produced by Meditainment Ltd, a company that specializes in
guided meditation experiences.
New Airline--Independence Air--To Launch With IFE By Year’s End
Independence Air, a low- fare airline created from the regional carrier Atlantic Coast
Airlines plans to launch by the end of 2004 based at Washington Dulles International
airport and flying many of Atlantic Coasts’ routes.
January 2004
Emirates Offers E-Mail Via Tenzing System
Emirates will offer passengers wired and wireless inflight e-mail service via the Tenzing
Communications system beginning first quarter 2004 with the delivery of the airline’s
new Airbus A340-500 aircraft and expanding across the fleet.
China Airlines Selects Connexion for Inflight Connectivity
China Airlines (CAL) signed a Letter of Intent with Connexion by Boeing to provide
high-speed connectivity inflight on CAL’s long-haul fleet, including Boeing B747-400s
and Airbus A340-300s, beginning in late 2004. The agreement is for a combined total of
45 firm and optional aircraft.
JetBlue Adds XM Radio, Pay-Per-View Movies
JetBlue Airways will add 100 channels of free XM Satellite Radio and pay-per-view
films from 20th Century Fox to its offering of 24 channels of live DirecTV programming
on its Airbus A320 aircraft later this year. The content will be available on JetBlue’s new
Embraer 190 aircraft as they are introduced in 2005.
AirTran Adds XM Radio
AirTran Airways will provide passengers 100 digital channels of XM Satellite Radio
programming free on the airline’s Boeing 717 and 737 aircraft. Installation will begin this
summer and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
SIA Takes Delivery of First A340-500
Singapore Airlines on 2 January took delivery of its first Airbus A340-500 ultra-long
range aircraft, dubbed the SIA A345LeaderShip, installed with the Matsushita Avionics
Systems Corporation (MAS) System 3000i AVOD platform cabinwide.
Emirates First to Air BBC Headlines Inflight
Emirates in December became the first airline to provide live BBC World headlines
inflight.
The BBC’s 24- hour news, business, and sports headlines will be aired on both overhead
and personal video monitors on Emirates’ new Airbus A340-500 aircraft, as well as on all
A330s and Boeing B777-300s and some B777-200s.
Royal Brunei Takes Delivery of
New Airbus A320-200
Royal Brunei Airlines on 22 December flew its new Airbus A320-200 aircraft installed
with the Thales i-2000 and i-3000 IFE system in a two-class configuration.
SkyWay Communications Granted License for Air-To-Ground Frequency
SkyWay Communications Holding Corp. has been granted a Special Temporary
Authorization (STA) by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to begin
testing and operations within the existing frequencies that are reserved for air-to-ground
communications. This license allows SkyWay to upgrade and begin reactivation of the
previously purchased AT&T/Claircom network to provide an air-to-ground
communication connection of up to 15 Mbps.
December 2003
UAL’s Ted To Launch In February With IFE
When Ted, United Airlines’ low-fare carrier launches in February 2004, it will offer
passengers two-way e- mail capability via Verizon Airfone’s JetConnect service in
addition to free overhead video IFE and distributed audio programming on the Matsus hita
IFE system.
AIRIA Demos Live Television News
AIRIA Ltd. on 19 November demonstrated its service that will deliver real-time news
direct to aircraft inflight globally using the existing Inmarsat satellite telephone system
already fitted onto most long-haul aircraft in service today.
Frontier Exploring Expansion of IFE Offerings
Frontier Airlines is exploring adding pay-per-view movies to its offering of real-time
broadcast DirecTV programming from LiveTV, according to Joe Hodas, the airline’s
Manager Corporate Communications.
Copa Airlines Gets Second Boeing 737-800 With IFE
Copa Airlines received its second Boeing 737-800 aircraft with a two-cabin
configuration, installed with the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation MPES
(Multiplex Passenger Entertainment System)-MKII IFE overhead video system. The
airline offers passengers complimentary headsets to access IFE programming.
Initial Alaska Pax Response Positive
APS’ digEplayer™ is available in first class on Alaska Airlines’ transcontinental flights
and is being introduced in coach class market-by- market, with the system available 1
December in coach on the Seattle-to- Boston and the Seattle-to-Miami routes.
Tenzing, ARINC Offer LAN-Based E-Mail Inflight
Tenzing Communications and ARINC Incorporated have partnered to offer airlines an
end-to-end solution to provide passengers e- mail connectivity inflight beginning in
February or March 2004.
Lufthansa Media World Launched on A340-600
Lufthansa German Airlines on 15 December launched Lufthansa Media World, its new
IFE service, on the first of the airline’s 10 new Airbus A340-600 aircraft.
Qantas Low Fare Carrier
To Launch With Audio IFE
Qantas Airways in May 2004 will launch a low- fare carrier called Jetstar that will feature
audio IFE and leather seats. Decisions concerning the IFE hardware platform and content
will not be made before the new year according to Michael Freedman, Executive
Producer, Qantas IFE.
Qatar To Add New Rockwell Live Television
Qatar Airways will add live television to its IFE offerings in 2004, via the Rockwell
Collins Tailwind 560 multi- region satellite television system. The airline signed a
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Rockwell Collins for the installation of the
system on 34 Airbus aircraft Qatar ordered in June 2003, with delivery scheduled from
2004 through 2010.
AWA Expands On-Ground Cell Phone Use
America West Airlines beginning 1 December allows passengers to use their cellular
phones after landing while the aircraft is taxiing to the gate. A flight attendant will inform
passengers when it is safe to use their mobile phones.
November 2003
Emirate Launches First A340-500, Debuts Cabin-wide High-End IFE
When Emirates launches the first of eight new Airbus A340-500 aircraft, the world’s
longest-range passenger jet, on 1 December between Dubai and Sydney, Australia, it also
will launch i c e, its new Information, Communication, and Entertainment system.
SIA Will Launch New Aircraft With MAS AVOD
Singapore Airlines will offer the world’s longest non-stop commercial service when it
launches its new Airbus 340-500 aircraft on the Singapore to Los Angeles route in
February 2004.
DAL Drops Headset Fee
Delta Air Lines, beginning 1 November, will provide complimentary IFE in all cabins
with the elimination of its US$5.00 rental fee in economy class. Passengers now may
bring their own headsets or purchase headsets from the airline for US$2.00, which they
can take with them and use on future flights or with personal audio devices.
New US Airline To Launch With IFE
A proposed new low- fare airline based at Pittsburgh International Airport expects to offer
IFE when it launches in June 2004 according to Paul Bornkessel, Director of Customer
Service.
Southwest Explores IFE Options
Southwest Airlines is continuing to explore all realms of IFE as it increases its fleet size
and capacity and moves up the delivery date of five Boeing 737 aircraft to next year
instead of the original dates in 2005 and 2006.
Air Canada Features Bollywood Films on Non-Stop Flights to Delhi
Air Canada in October began daily non-stop service between Toronto and Delhi, with
IFE featuring major Bollywood films in Hindi with English subtitles and Hollywood
blockbusters in English and French.
JAL & SIA To Install Connexion By Boeing Real-Time Connectivity In 2004
Japan Airlines (JAL) on 12 November signed a definitive service agreement with
Connexion by Boeing and on 11 November Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced a letter
of intent agreement with Connexion to install the system providing real-time, high-speed
connectivity inflight.
Song IFE Unveiled
Song, Delta Air Lines’ new low-fare carrier, today unveiled the IFE technology to be
installed on its fleet of 36 Boeing 757 aircraft by early 2004.
DAL Tests One-Class Service
Delta Air Lines will test one-class service on Boeing 737-800 aircraft offering inflight
entertainment and amenity innovations to provide extra comfort and convenience for
business travelers.
AWA First To Add Tray-Table Ads
Seatback tray tables on 35 America West Airlines aircraft will sport advertisements for
Bank of America Visa, a credit card partner of AWA, and tray tables on 35 aircraft will
feature ads for Mercedes Benz automobiles beginning in December.
KLM Installs MAS AVOD System on First Boeing 777
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines took delivery of the first of its initial 10 Boeing 777-200ER
aircraft installed with the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS) System 3000i
AVOD platform.
UAL Names Low Cost Carrier
United Airlines’ low cost carrier set to launch in February will be named Ted, as in “United,”
but few other details are available concerning the airlines’ offerings, including IFE.
Denver-based Ted will begin operation with four Airbus A320 aircraft. By the end of
2004, 45 Ted planes are planned.
Gulf Air Provides Sky Nanny To Entertain Kids
Gulf Air has introduced a professional Sky Nanny service on its routes between Bahrain,
Abu Dhabi and London and on the Bahrain-to-Sydney route to care for and entertain
children up to 12-years-old. In addition to feeding the child, the Sky Nanny will keep him
amused with a range of English and Arabic books, comics and special children’s IFE
programming.
SIA Completes SpaceBed Install
Singapore Airlines has completed installation of SpaceBeds equipped with the Matsushita
Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS) System 3000 IFE platform in Business Class on
its entire long-haul fleet.
Consumer Group Files Suit
Joanne Doroshow, Executive Director of The Center for Justice & Democracy, a New
York-based consumer rights organization filed a complaint 27 October with the Federal
Trade Commission (FTC) alleging that several US airlines and Sky Radio Network,
producers of inflight audio business programs, are concealing paid corporate advertising.
October 2003
Alaska Airlines Intros New IFE Technology
Alaska Airlines beginning this month will be the first carrier in the world to offer
customers the APS digEplayer™, which uses portable, VOD technology to deliver films,
television and audio programming.
ANA & Connexion Sign MOU
All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Boeing signed a letter of intent to install the Connexion
by Boeing service on its long- haul aircraft.
Qantas Launches Two-Way SMS
Qantas Airways on 25 September launched the world’s first send and receive SMS
capability via the SITA system installed on Rockwell Collins’ Total Entertainment
System (TES). The service is available in the airline’s new international Business Class
on its Boeing B747-400 aircraft.
General Dynamics: Just Say YES!
General Dynamics Airborne Electronics Systems (GDAES) group introduced
EMPOWER® YES! (Your Entertainment Station), a complete personal in-seat IFE
system consisting of a powerfully equipped Tablet PC with a 10.4- inch display capable of
storing and playing more than 28 feature films, 100 hours of stereo audio, video games,
and supporting standard web browsing.
NWA/UAL Allows Cell Phone Use During Taxi
Northwest Airlines and United Airlines now allow passengers to use their cell phones to
make calls and send and retrieve text messages during the aircraft’s taxi to the gate after
landing and exiting the active runway at US airports. Previously, passengers on both
airlines were not allowed to use their phones until the aircraft had reached the gate and
the doors were opened.
Sky Way Aircraft/Southeast Airlines Formalize Contract
To Provide High-Speed Wireless Connectivity
SkyWay Communications and its wholly owned subsidiary Sky Way Aircraft have
formalized the agreement (announced in the 1 August issue of WIN )with Florida-based
charter carrier Southeast Airlines, for installation of the Sky Way Aircraft System,
providing high-speed wireless Internet access to passengers free of charge using a
terrestrial-based system.
Virgin Blue Choose Collins’ PAVES
Virgin Blue has selected Rockwell Collins’ Programmable Audio Video Entertainment
System (PAVES™) IFE system and avionics equipment for 10 new Boeing 737 aircraft
with an option for 40 additional aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2004.
Air New Zealand Receives First A320
Air New Zealand 16 September took delivery of the first of its 15 new Airbus A320
aircraft installed with the Matsushita Avionics Systems (MAS) 2000E.
Rockwell Collins/IMS eOffload Pax Info For DAL
Rockwell Collins and Innovative Media Solutions (IMS) have partnered to provide Delta
Air Lines with eOffload, which provides on-demand access to and analysis of passenger
IFE usage and system performance information on Rockwell Collins’ Total
Entertainment System (TES) IFE system.
Royal Brunei Launches New A319
Royal Brunei Airlines launched its new A319 equipped with power port connectors to
operate personal laptop computers, 8.4- inch personal monitors, in-arm audio and video
control units, electronically adjustable lumbar support and a footrest in business class.
MAS Unveils New Systems & Alliances,
Demos MASMedia Applications
Matsushita Avionics Systems (MAS) unveiled eX2, its next-generation AVOD IFE
system for wide-body aircraft. The system, which focuses on reducing overall system
weight and power requirements, is scheduled to enter service on the Airbus A380 in
second quarter 2006.
Phitek/MAS Develop Noise-Canceling Technology
Phitek in association with Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MAS) has
developed a new noise-canceling technology called SmartJack™. SmartJack incorporates
several proprietary and patented features that deliver high- fidelity audio while providing
effective, wide-bandwidth noise cancellation using a broad range of headphone options.
DAL’s Song To Launch 24-Channel Broadcast TV
Song, Delta Air Lines’ low fare carrier, will launch its real-time broadcast television and
audio IFE “imminently,” according to Dan Callahan, DAL’s Program Manager, Onboard
Media.
Lufthansa Technik Becomes IFE Hardware OEM
Lufthansa Technik this month introduced nice™ (Networked Integrated Cabin
Equipment), a new product developed with Cisco Systems and Videon, that controls all
cabin functions and distributes audio and video IFE and data on one digital Ethernet
network. nice™, which currently is installed and flying on a Business jet, is available
with 115 VAC 400HZ for commercial aircraft.
Company Provides Digital Video Services
For New digEplayer™
DivXNetworks Inc., a California-based company whose core offering is the DivX® video
codec MPEG-4 compatible video compression technology, will provide video encoding,
compression and digital rights management services for the APS digEplayer™ portable
AVOD player to be deployed on Alaska Airlines beginning this month.
US Airways Expands Cell Phone Use Policy
US Airways now allows passengers to use their cellular phones, two-way pagers and
personal digital assistants during the aircraft’s taxi to the gate, when advised by the flight
crew. Prior to take-off, passengers can use these devices until the aircraft door is closed.
September 2003
Qantas Launches Two-Way SMS
Qantas Airways this month will launch its new international Business Class on its Boeing
B747-400 aircraft offering the world’s first send and receive short messaging service
(SMS) capability via the Rockwell Collins Total Entertainment System (TES).
By late September passengers can send and receive SMS messages of up to 160
characters free of charge for a limited time. Qantas would not confirm when passengers
would be charged for the service or how much they might be charged.
AWA Offers IFE ON Transcontinental Flights
The same programming currently offered on existing flights will be available to
passengers cabinwide when America West Airlines introduces non-stop transcontinental
service between Los Angeles on the West Coast and New York and Boston on the East
Coast beginning 26 October.
August 2003
Sky Way Aircraft To Provide Wireless High-Speed Connectivity
SkyWay Communications and its wholly owned subsidiary Sky Way Aircraft have
executed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Florida-based charter carrier Southeast Airlines,
for installation of the Sky Way Aircraft System, providing high-speed wireless Internet
access to passengers free of charge using a terrestrial-based system.
Iberia Selects Arinc Satellite Communications
Iberia Lineas Aereas De Espana has selected Arinc’s satellite communications service to
provide worldwide coverage for its long- haul fleet via the Arinc GLOBALink/Satellite
system.
EVA Airways Receives First A330-200
EVA Airways Corporation has taken delivery of the first of 10 Airbus A330-200 aircraft,
installed with the Matsushita Avionics Systems 3000 IFE AVOD system.
Ibises International Installs First
SkyMediaCenter IFE System
Ibises International has completed the first installation and ground testing of its
SkyMediaCenter AMC-3000D IFE system on a Lion Airlines narrow body MD82
aircraft. The IFE system can provide inflight AVOD, games, moving map, a built-in
laptop computer at each seat and shopping capability.
Virgin Intros New First Class
Virgin Atlantic Airways is introducing a new first class, The Upper Class Suite,
beginning this month on aircraft flying the London to New York route. The Matsushita
Avionics System (MAS) IFE system is not being changed on existing aircraft, but new
deliveries will be installed with Virgin’s V:PORT on-demand IFE system with a
messaging service. V:PORT is provided through MAS’ System 3000.
NWA Unveils New A330 With MASC 3000i
Northwest Airlines on 6 August unveiled the first of 24 new Airbus A330 wide-body
aircraft installed with the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MASC) System
3000i, providing passengers digital AVOD as well as the ability to send short messaging
service (SMS) messages or text e-mail messages, play games, gather information and
shop inflight.
Honeywell & Thales to Enable 128 Kbps Inflight
Honeywell, Inc. and Thales Avionics in December plan to offer a hardware system to
provide inflight connectivity at up to 128 kbps, using Inmarsat’s Swift64 high speed data
service.
MAS Selects MASC IFE
Malaysia Airlines (MAS) has selected the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation
(MASC) System 3000i for installation on 17 Boeing 747-400 and 15 777-200 aircraft
providing AVOD cabinwide as part of the airline’s 700 million ringgit (US$184 million)
upgrade program.
US Airways Pax Can Use Own Headsets
To Access IFE Free of Charge
US Airways passengers, beginning 1 August can use their own headsets onboard to
access IFE free of charge or they can purchase a headset onboard for US$5.00 (£3.00 or
€5 on transatlantic flights). Passengers can keep the two-prong headsets, which allow for
stereo sound on flights where it is available, for use on future flights.
China Eastern Intros A340-600 With MAS System 3000
China Eastern Airlines on 1 September will inaugurate Airbus A340-600 service between
Los Angeles and Shanghai.
Sirius Receive s FAA Approval For Satellite Radio
SIRIUS, satellite radio service, and Avionics International, IFE hardware manufacturer,
received approval for a satellite radio system for aircraft.
July 2003
UAL & Continental Intro Two-Way E-Mail
United Airlines on 18 June became the first US airline to offer two-way inflight e-mail
capability on its US domestic flights. The service, which is offered via Verizon Airfone’s
JetConnect service installed with Tenzing Communications, Inc.’s e- mail capabilities,
will be available on more than 100 aircraft by the end of July and across UAL’s entire
domestic fleet by the end of 2003.
Continental Airlines will introduce the “JetConnect with Email” service this month on 45
of its 757 aircraft, then across its entire narrow-body fleet by this fall.
Airfone To Intro Wireless Roaming Inflight
Verizon Airfone by the end of the year plans to introduce “Wireless Roaming,” a system
that allows passengers to key their cell-phone number into a seat-back Airfone, in effect
substituting the Airfone for their cell phone. The call will be billed to their subscriber
cellular account at wireless roaming charges, which is less expensive than making the call
using the Airfone. Passengers also will be able to pick up voice messages using this
system.
Kenya Airlines Chooses Rockwell Collins TES System
Kenya Airlines will install Rockwell Collins’ Total Entertainment System (TES™), in
both business and economy classes on three Boeing 777 aircraft with deliveries to begin
in May 2004.
The system will provide full AVOD capability in business class, with VOD and
distributed audio broadcast in economy class, according to Catherine Muigai Mwangi,
Director Corporate Communications for Kenya Airlines.
NWA Installs State-Of-The-Art IFE On New A330s
Northwest Airlines has confirmed orders for 24 new A330 aircraft with individual video
screens installed cabinwide. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery beginning in early
Fall 2003.
The aircraft will offer a state-of-the-art IFE system “that meets or exceeds anything
offered by our domestic or international competitors,” stated Kurt Ebenhoch, Director of
Media Relations. Ebenhoch promised to provide specifics of the IFE system and content
offerings following the aircraft`s official launch.
Qantas to Upgrade International Services
Qantas Airways Ltd. will introduce short messaging service text messaging (SMS)
cabinwide on 747-400 aircraft beginning in September.
FAA & ATA Commission Cell Phone Study
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Air Transport Association
(ATA) have commissioned a study to determine if inflight use of wireless devices,
including cellular telephones, laptop computers and handheld Personal Digital Assistants
(PDAs), interferes with onboard avionics. The use of wireless devices inflight currently is
prohibited by regulatory agencies worldwide.
SAS To Offer Wireless “Connexion”
Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) on 2 July announced it will be the first airline to
offer a totally wireless solution for real- time inflight connectivity providing e- mail and
Internet access througho ut the cabin with the installation of the Connexion by Boeing
service.
LIVETV Intro’d Inflight in Canada
LiveTV will provide Canadian low- fare carrier WestJet, inflight satellite television on the
airline’s fleet of 28 Boeing 737-700 aircraft, marking the first time inflight satellite
television will be available in Canada.
AA & CO Relax On-The-Ground Cell Phone Policy
Continental Airlines’ and American Airlines’ customers, beginning 7 July and 8 July,
respectively, can use their cell phones shortly after landing, while the aircraft is taxiing to
the gate. Upon arrival, flight attendants will announce when the use of cell phones is
permitted.
KLM To Offer AVOD Cabinwide On New Aircraft
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will offer AVOD cabinwide via the Matsushita Avionics
System 3000i IFE system installed on 10 new B777 aircraft with delivery scheduled
between late October 2003 and mid-2005.
AirCell Awarded Patent for Inflight Cell-Phone Technology
AirCell, Inc. on 8 July was awarded a US patent for its technology that will permit
passengers to use their personal cell phones onboard aircraft while inflight. The
technology still must be approved by the US Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and AirCell has entered into
discussions with both agencies.
SWISS Offers AVOD On New A340s
SWISS, on 8 July, launched the first of nine new A340-313 aircraft, installed with the
Matsushita Avionics System 3000i platform, providing AVOD capability cabinwide.
June 2003
UAL Tests Inflight E-Mail
United Airlines plans to aggressively expand Verizon Airfone’s JetConnect service,
which offers inflight instant messaging, text messaging, news, and entertainment
services, across their entire domestic fleet according to Bob Ketelsen, United’s Manager
of Aircraft Product Planning & Design. As part of this initiative, United will be the first
airline to provide e- mail service through the JetConnect service.
LUFTHANSA COMMITS TO CONNEXION
Lufthansa German Airlines on 27 May became the launch customer of the Connexion by
Boeing real-time broadband inflight connectivity service. The airline will install the
service offering both wired and wireless access on its fleet of approximately 80 long-haul
Boeing 747-400 and Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft beginning in early 2004.
Installations are expected to be completed within two years.
GULF AIR LAUNCHES NEW AIRLINE
On 1 June Gulf Air will launch Gulf Traveller, an all-economy full-service subsidiary
airline aimed specifically at current Gulf Air routes where customer demand exceeds
capacity.
KOREAN AIR OFFERS PORTABLE DVD
Korean Air this spring began offering portable DVD players with a selection of six titles
to first and business class passengers flying between London and Sydney and Korean’s
Incheon hub. Based on passenger response, the service could be expanded to include
Washington, D.C., Rome, New Zealand, and Los Angeles routes.
AIRLINES EXPLORE STANDARDIZATION AS COST CUTTING MEASURE
Air Canada, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa German Airlines, and Scandinavian Airlines
System (SAS) are exploring the cost-saving benefits of standardizing their requirements
of new aircraft in order to consolidate their new regional aircraft purchases from Boeing
and Airbus.
In a separate potential agreement, Air France and Alitalia are exploring the same
consolidated purchasing concept with Bombardier and Embraer.
Aeromexico Selects Rockwell Collins IFE System
Aeromexico has selected Rockwell Collins to provide IFE and avionics equipment for 11
new Boeing 737-700 aircraft with deliveries to begin in October 2003 and continue
through 2004.
JAL Installs KID-Systeme Power
Japan Airlines will install the KID-Systeme GmbH 110V AC SKYpower™ in-seat power
supply in its entire Boeing 777 fleet, according to Claudia Hallemann, Marketing/Public
Relations for KID-Systeme.
The first B777-200 will enter service in July 2003, followed by the first B777-300 in the
third or fourth quarter of 2003. JAL has firm orders for one additional B777-300, with an
option for eight additio nal aircraft.
SIA Chooses Airshow For A340-500
Singapore Airlines is installing Rockwell Collins’ Airshow 420 moving map and flight
information displays on five new Airbus A340-500 aircraft. Initial installations have
begun and will be completed later this year.
SWISS Plans To Launch Regional Airline
SWISS International Airlines in the winter of 2003-2004 plans to launch SWISS Express,
a new regional subsidiary created from SWISS’ regional operations. The new carrier is
being created to offer low-cost air connections, especially within Europe, according to an
airline spokesperson.
He said the business plan, including potential IFE installations, is still “under
construction” and expects details to be finalized in two to three months.
May 2003
SAS Pax Use Cell Phones Inflight, But Not to Phone Home
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) last week began allowing passengers to use their mobile
phones in the “flight-safe” mode to perform non-phone-call functions inflight. Using their
cell phones, passengers may write e- mails and notes, edit documents, play games, listen
to music, or even take photographs with a built- in camera.
Qatar Expands With A320-200 & A330-200
Qatar Airways in April took delivery of its ninth A320-200 and fourth A330-200 aircraft,
expanding its fleet to a total of 23 planes.
AIRIA Selects Telenor For Ground Segment
Telenor Satellite Services will host AIRIA Limited’s transmission equipment within its
Southbury, Connecticut land earth station during AIRIA’s inflight trials of live television
scheduled to begin this summer onboard a US business jet.
CAA RESEARCH SHOWS CELL PHONES INTERFERE WITH AIRCRAFT
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on 2 May issued a report stating that their
ongoing tests have proved inflight mobile telephone transmissions can adversely affect
navigation and communications functions producing “significant errors in instrument
displays and background noise on audio outputs.”
The tests support the existing CAA ban on cell phone use onboard aircraft after the
engines have started.
EgyptAir Selects Rockwell IFE/Avionics Systems
EgyptAir has selected Rockwell Collins’ Programmable Audio Video System (PAVES®)
to provide IFE and Collins’ avionics systems for five new Airbus A320-200 aircraft
scheduled for delivery beginning this year.
Continental Kiosks Offer Inflight “Currency”
Beginning 8 May Continental Airlines passengers can purchase “Continental Currency”
at eService airport kiosks to pay for audio headsets and alcoholic beverages inflight.
April 2003
US Airways Discontinues Audio IFE on
Narrow Body Aircraft
US Airways on 1 March discontinued offering audio IFE on its narrow body fleet, which
comprises most of the airline’s US transcontinental and Caribbean flights.
The airline will continue to provide the same selection of 10 channels of audio
programming on a two- month cycle on its B767 and A330 wide body aircraft.
Alitalia Begins Pax Trials of AirTV
PAX To Pay Following Trials
Alitalia this month will begin inflight passenger trials of AirTV’s satellite connectivity
system delivering real-time e- mail and Internet access and live broadcast television on
one Boeing 767 aircraft.
Following a test of the e- mail and SMS (short messaging service) capability of the
service, the airline will initiate a flat-rate pricing structure, charging passengers for actual
data sent, not time used on the system.
Cathay Pacific Named Skytrax Airline of the Year
Cathay Pacific Airways was named 2003 Airline of the Year in Skytrax Research of
London’s 2003 annual passenger survey.
Ethiopian Airlines and Royal Air Maroc Select Rockwell Collins IFE Systems
Ethiopian Airlines will install Rockwell Collins’ Programmable Audio Video System
(PAVES®) and Total Entertainment System (TES™) on new Boeing aircraft set for
delivery beginning later this year through 2005.
Royal Air Maroc has selected Rockwell’s PAVES system for installation on four new
Airbus A321 and 19 new Boeing 737-700/800 aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to begin
this year and continue through 2013.
Lufthansa Expects to Expand Connexion
Lufthansa German Airlines’ Deputy Chairman, Wolfgang Mayrhuber said he expects
Lufthansa will reach an agreement with Connexion by Boeing to install the real-time email
and Internet connectivity system on its long-haul fleet beginning in 2004.
Verizon Airfone Selects Tenzing to Provide Inflight E-Mail
Verizon Airfone has selected Tenzing Communications to provide e-mail capabilities for
JetConnect, Verizon’s inflight news, messaging and entertainment service.
Malaysia Airlines Selects Spafax
Malaysia Airlines has selected Spafax to supply English-language feature films for all of
the airline’s IFE systems, including AVOD. This is the first time Spafax has provided
content services for Malaysia Airlines.
Song Launched
Song, Delta Air Lines’ low-cost carrier, on 15 April flew its maiden voyage from New
York City to West Palm Beach, Florida. Song’s IFE systems, featuring Matsushita
Avionics Systems’ (MAS) eFX™ single-aisle aircraft system, will be introduced in
October and will offer real-time access to 24 channels of satellite television programming
provided through Echostar Communications Corporation.
March 2003
Tenzing, Airbus Test Swift 64 Connectivity
Airbus and Tenzing Communications have completed the first full- scale on-the-ground
test of Tenzing’s service to provide inflight real-time connectivity using the Inmarsat
Swift 64 service over a standard high-gain L-band SATCOM antenna. More than 1800
aircraft worldwide currently are installed with this type of antenna.
Emirate Re-Launches Video Library and Mag
Emirates has re-launched its in-seat personal video library, supported by a new library
magazine, video ondemand.
February 2003
BA To Launch Connexion System
British Airways on 18 February will begin its three- month demonstration of the
Connexion by Boeing real-time inflight connectivity system on a Boeing 747-400 aircraft
flying the London Heathrow-to-New York route.
Following a one- month introductory offer of US$25.00 to use the service, BA will charge
customers US$35.00 per flight.
Delta’s New Low-Cost Airline To Feature VOD & SAT TV
In response to growing competition from low-fare carriers, Delta Air Lines will launch its
own low-cost carrier, named `Song`, on 15 April. Song`s fleet of 36 Boeing 757 aircraft
will feature the Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation (MASC) eFX™ single-aisle
IFE system and offer real-time access to 24 channels of satellite television programming
provided through Echostar Communications Corporation.
Dragonair Upgrades IFE/Seats
Dragonair in January unveiled a HK$195 million cabin upgrade plan that includes the
introduction of a video entertainment system, new lie- flat seats in first and business class
and a new seating configuration in business class.
Emirates To Expand Fleet/Upgrade IFE & Seats
Emirates will add a total of 11 new A340-500 and B777-300 aircraft to its fleet this year,
launching radically new inflight services and products, increasing seating capacity by
25%, starting new routes, and adding more flights on many current routes.
Thai Airways to Offer AVOD
Thai Airways International will launch enhanced services including IFE providing full
AVOD capability in first and business classes on its B747-400 and B777-200 aircraft,
according to Virongrong (Vicki) Ra tanachaya, Deputy Manager Airline Product
Improvement. A distributed overhead video system will be installed in economy class.
Lauda Air Italia Launch Customer For
MAS Head-End DVD Player
Lauda Air Italia, based in Milan-Malpensa, will install Matsushita Avionics Systems
Corporation’s (MAS) System 3000 IFE system on its three new A330-200 aircraft.
Delivery of the first aircraft is scheduled for November 2003, with the other two set for
service in July and October 2004.
VARIG and TAM To Merge
VARIG Brazilian Airlines and TAM-Brazilian Airlines 6 February signed an agreement
to form a new airline, but to operate independently for six months. No details are
available concerning the structure or identity of the planned new airline.
Continental Airlines To Offer FlightStore
Continental Airlines will offer FlightStore, the interactive inflight shopping service that
lets passengers browse and buy goods and services through the seatback IFE system,
beginning 2nd quarter 2003.
January 2003
Alitalia Tests AirTV Real-Time Connectivity Inflight
Alitalia, in late December, began inflight tests of the AirTV satellite connectivity system
delivering real- time e- mail and Internet access and live broadcast television inflight.
Alitalia personnel will conduct the initial tests onboard one Boeing 767 aircraft in
January before deciding when the service will be introduced to passengers and the future
expansion of the service throughout the fleet.
Air New Zealand Plane Is Lord of the Wings
IFE forms an integral part of a two-year deal forged between Air New Zealand and New
Line Cinema to promote the airline, New Zealand tourism and The Lord of The Rings
film trilogy, which was filmed on location in New Zealand.
PAX Can Download Films to Handheld Devices,
Passengers at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) can now download feature films
or a variety of short programming to their notebook computer or hand-held device for
viewing inflight.
PocketPC Films, a distributor of multimedia for handheld computers, offers the films at
nREACH Mobile-Content Kiosks™ in three locations at LAX and plans to expand the
service to additional airports in the near future.
Business Traveler Magazine Distributed From Lufthansa Aircraft Inflight
Using the Connexion by Boeing high-speed connectivity system, Business Traveler
magazine will distribute a special issue of its weekly electronic newsletter, Business
Traveler-e, onboard a Lufthansa 747-400 enroute to Washington, D.C. on 21 January.