Panasonic Avionics has signed an agreement with Air Canada to install its Astrova in-flight entertainment (IFE) solution on over 80 aircraft starting in 2025.
According to the terms of the agreement, the flag carrier of Canada will see Astrova line-fitted on Air Canada's Boeing 787-10, Airbus A220-300 and A321XLR aircraft. Additionally, it will be retrofitted on A321 aircraft.
This extensive and diverse fleet commitment from Air Canada marks the first time Astrova will be installed on the Airbus A220.
Upon delivery, Astrova will create an immersive experience through industry-leading 4K OLED HDR10+ screens. Passengers can also experience high-fidelity audio on their own wireless headphones using Panasonic Avionics' Bluetooth® technology.
For passengers who wish to multitask or work during their flights, up to 100 W of DC power via USB-C will be available in all phases of flight to fast charge mobile phones, tablets, compatible laptops and other personal electronic devices.
Astrova also features a modular design that delivers the scalability and flexibility needed to keep pace with consumer trends in today's fast-changing market. For example, Astrova's patented removable peripheral bar can be quickly hot-swapped to unlock new upgrades and features to services like USB power, Bluetooth® technology, and other standards that may change or evolve over time.
For faster delivery, more efficient maintenance and higher innovation-to-market velocity of apps and software, Astrova will leverage Panasonic Avionics' new IFE software platform. Its unique design uses a collection of shared system services and utilities, allowing Air Canada to quickly build, test, and deploy new applications.
To achieve the highest system performance, Air Canada has also extended its agreement with Panasonic Avionics' technical services team (PTS) to maintain these Astrova-equipped aircraft.
