Qantas selects Panasonic’s Astrova for ultra-long-haul flights
Panasonic's Astrova IFE system in Economy Class
Qantas has selected Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s Astrova IFE system to equip the airline’s ultra-long-haul flights. This service will be available on 12 of the airline’s A350-1000 aircraft travelling from the east coast of Australia to Europe and New York.
“For decades, Qantas and Panasonic Avionics have joined forces to launch game-changing IFE solutions. We immediately understood that these ultra-long-haul routes would bring with them a new set of passenger needs and expectations,” said Andy Masson, Vice President of Product Management at Panasonic Avionics. “Working closely with Qantas, our joint mission was to design a system that delivered all the creature comforts of home — everything from cinema-grade picture quality to high fidelity audio, and enough power to fast-charge all passenger devices.”
With Astrova, passengers can enjoy the industry’s only OLED 4K screen that is HDR 10+, has an infinite contrast ratio and perfect blacks. High-fidelity multi-channel spatial audio technology and full cabin Bluetooth® enable passengers to connect to the system using their personal headphones. The Astrova IFE system also delivers 100 W of mobile device and laptop fast-charging via USB-C, available through all phases of flight.
Astrova is a modular system, designed to evolve to help protect an airline’s investment. Airlines can continuously upgrade their Astrova systems as new technology versions become available.
Panasonic Avionics’ latest IFE solution also supports airline sustainability efforts by reducing the need to recycle materials and by maximizing system lifespan. The lighter weight of Astrova compared to previous IFE systems also helps airlines reduce fuel consumption.
“Working closely with Qantas, we are extremely excited to offer this engaging, innovative and compelling solution, which supports long-haul and ultra-long-haul flights. Our mission is to deliver the right airline product and passenger experience that includes those memorable moments that help drive net promoter score and brand loyalty. All this and more from a solution that is designed to be lightweight to reduce fuel burn, and yet still evolve and keep pace with technology on the ground,” said Masson.
