Airbus has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Panasonic Avionics to explore a strategic partnership for the future Connected Aircraft platform. Subject to a definitive agreement expected later this year, both parties intend to leverage Panasonic Avionics’ next-generation in-flight entertainment (IFE) hardware and software server platform, Converix, to co-develop the new on-board architecture. In particular this will enable an open ecosystem of applications and end-to-end services, including Airbus’ high-bandwidth connectivity solution, HBCplus.
Tim Sommer, Airbus’ VP of the Connected Aircraft programme says: «Panasonic Avionics’ experience as a world leading IFE provider, combined with Airbus’ experience as world-leading aircraft OEM* and integrator of digitally-enabled end-to-end operations brings together the best of both worlds. This will benefit both airlines and their passengers.”
Ken Sain, Chief Executive of Panasonic Avionics, said: “Panasonic Avionics and Airbus share a commitment to innovation. This exciting and natural partnership, with Converix at its heart, will unlock the full potential of the Connected Aircraft for airlines and their passengers in the years ahead.”
New server – key to Airbus’ Connected Aircraft platform vision…
Central to the partnership with Airbus, Panasonic Avionics will make available its new state-of-the-art Converix server hardware and software platform – which will be a key part of Airbus’ planned Connected Aircraft architecture.
The resulting end-to-end platform – onboard, on-ground and in the ‘cloud’ – enables an open ecosystem of applications and services including the collection of non-safety-critical information from aircraft operations to passenger experience. It enables the introduction of a standard scalable and versatile architecture, expanding the range of aircraft components that benefit from air-to-ground connectivity, while offering significant storage and computing capabilities.
Open platform for third-party and cross-fleet solutions
Both partners are committed to ensure full neutrality of the digital platform regarding any third-party solutions to ensure maximum benefits to airline / lessor customers. Such an approach would enable Airbus, airlines and third parties to develop a wide range of digital services, from in-seat IFE solutions to applications dedicated to cabin or ground operations optimisation. The platform will be available across Airbus and non-Airbus aircraft providing airlines with a fleet-wide solution.
*OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer
In the above picture from left to right: Andy Masson (Vice President, Product & Portfolio Management Panasonic Avionics), Ken Sain (CEO Panasonic Avionics), Maximilian Rücker (HO Seats & Cabin Equipment Airbus), Tim Sommer (HO Connected Aircraft Airbus), Marc Fischer (SVP Cabin & Cargo), Sandra Bour Schaeffer (HO Procurement Cabin & Cargo Airbus).
