FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - WS to install Panasonic IFE system as next gen IFE and power outlets
Old Feb 14, 2014, 7:39 am
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WR Cage
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
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WS to install Panasonic IFE system as next gen IFE and power outlets

Details here:

CALGARY - WestJet announced Friday it has signed a multi-year agreement with Panasonic Avionics Corporation to provide the airline with a new inflight entertainment system with the ability to feature wireless satellite Internet connectivity, live streaming television, on-demand movies, and magazines.

Passengers will be able to use their personal electronic device or laptop computer to receive live and stored content streamed wirelessly from a server on board each WestJet Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. Airtime packages will also be available to surf the Internet and access email. Tablets will be available for people not travelling with a device.
Attribution: http://www.calgaryherald.com/busines...919/story.html

Recap,
-will use Panasonic IFE system to stream entertainment over Wifi.
- 110volt and USB power to be installed.
- Internet connection for a fee.
- first test aircraft by end of 2014. Rollout to take several years.
- on last weeks conference cll, it was mentioned that 2 73G leases were renewed to handle the extra downtime created by the IFE conversion. The lease were renewed until 2017. Expect te conversion to take a long time.
- seat back units to be pulled out of existing aircraft. Wonder if this means slimline seats are the replacement?
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