In a sign that the aircraft will keep flying for some years to come, Lufthansa will retrofit the in-flight entertainment hardware on its 747-8i fleet. The airline selected the Panasonic Avionics Corporation NEXT in-flight entertainment (IFE) system and enhanced connectivity solutions for the refresh.
We are thrilled to be joining forces with Panasonic Avionics again. Our Boeing 747-8s are an integral part of our long-haul fleet, and we’re confident that this investment in Panasonic Avionics’ in-flight entertainment will be popular with our passengers.
– Paul Estoppey, Head of Product Management Cabin at Lufthansa Group
The NEXT IFE system will be retrofitted on Lufthansa’s 19 Boeing 747-8i aircraft. The first plane with the new system is expected to enter service in summer 2024.
This higher performance system will provide Lufthansa’s passengers with a superior, immersive cinematic experience using the latest 4K screen technology, with faster network speeds and higher storage capacity.
Big, bright screens, plus power
Business Class passengers will enjoy an enhanced IFE experience with up to 24-inch 4K screens, a large 10-inch additional control unit, high power USB–A / USB-C, AC power and wireless charging capabilities.
Premium Economy Class passengers will experience an upgraded 16-inch 4K screen, while economy class passengers will see a new 13-inch 4K screen installed. Both economy and premium economy passengers will have in-seat power with high power USB-A and USB-C charging.
In-flight WiFi renewal
The companies also announced the renewal of inflight connectivity services offered by Panasonic Avionics. Broadband connectivity, which is already installed on Lufthansa widebody aircraft, uses Panasonic Avionics’ global network of high-speed, high-bandwidth satellites to live up to the connectivity expectations of Lufthansa’s passengers.
Mobile phone connectivity will also be upgraded to 4G speeds on Lufthansa’s 747-8i aircraft.
Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics, said, “We are delighted to be partnering once again with Lufthansa with this upgrade of the passenger experience on their flagship long-haul fleet. Introducing our NEXT Series and latest generation connectivity on board this world-class airline will help drive greater passenger loyalty and add value to their brand.”
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