Finnair has selected Panasonic Avionics to upgrade the in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems across the airline’s widebody long-haul fleet.
The IFE upgrade is an integral part of the Nordic cabin enhancements being introduced by Finnair across its long-haul fleet, including the introduction of a brand new Premium Economy cabin.
Panasonic Avionics is installing its latest eX3 system in all cabins on Finnair’s eight Airbus A330-300 aircraft – upgrading them from its eX2 system.
Finnair’s 19 A350-900 aircraft, which already carry eX3, will also see their premium cabins upgraded to the latest version of the system. The first upgraded aircraft entered service in February 2022.
With the upgrade, Finnair’s passengers will experience Panasonic Avionics’ award-winning eX3 system in every cabin of its long-haul fleet, including HD screens at each seat, complete with capacitive touch displays and handsets, and USB and laptop charging facilities.
Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation:
“Finnair’s innovative and eye-catching widebody cabin enhancements take their passenger experience to a new level. Panasonic Avionics is honored to be contributing to this upgrade with our latest in-flight entertainment solutions, marking the latest chapter in our relationship with this industry-leading carrier.”
Harri Valkama, Digital Channel Lead at Finnair:
“This upgrade for Finnair reflects our commitment to deliver a premium experience in every cabin on our aircraft. Having the latest technology on board will allow our customers to stay entertained as they travel long-haul. We chose Panasonic Avionics for its innovative solutions and ability to support Finnair developed digital inflight eco-system. We can rest assured that our customers will experience high-quality, state-of-the-art systems.”
Finnair inflight connectivity
Finnair’s in-flight connectivity services are also provided by Panasonic Avionics.
The airline recently became the European launch customer for Panasonic’s Arc map platform, an immersive inflight map for its passengers to view onboard long haul flights.
Passengers are able to choose from over 20 distinct map views in full HD for various phases of flight. These incorporate 3D satellite imagery, local and global views.
The new map will be available through Panasonic Avionics’ eX3 IFE system on Finnair’s 19 Airbus A350-900 and eight A330-300 aircraft.
About Finnair
Finnair is the largest airline in Finland. It’s main hub is Helsinki Airport, from where it flies to over 100 destinations in Asia, North America, Europe. It specialises in connecting passenger and cargo traffic between Asia and Europe via the short northern route.
Routes: Finnair flies to over 100 destinations in Finland, Europe, Asia and North America with an emphasis on fast connections via Helsinki.
Passengers: Over 13 million in 2018.
Alliance: oneworld
Fleet: Over 70 aircraft, comprising:
- 6 Airbus A319
- 10 Airbus A320
- 19 Airbus A321
- 8 Airbus A330
- 16 Airbus A350 ( + 3 on order)
- 12 ATR 72
- 12 Embraer E190
(Figures from finnair.com on 16/04/2022).
