Panasonic Avionics’ in-flight entertainment (IFE) solutions recently launched its OLED-friendly Astrova IFE system with Qantas and Icelandair being among the first airlines to adopt the technology.
Astrova: A Game-Changer in IFE
Some of the key features of Astrova include:
- 4K OLED Displays: Astrova boasts the industry’s only OLED 4K screens with HDR 10+, providing passengers with an unmatched viewing experience. The infinite contrast ratio and perfect blacks ensure cinema-grade picture quality.
- High Fidelity Audio: The system incorporates multi-channel spatial audio technology and full cabin Bluetooth® connectivity, allowing passengers to connect their personal headphones for an immersive audio experience.
- Fast-Charging Capabilities: Astrova offers up to 100 W of mobile device and laptop fast-charging via USB-C, available throughout all phases of the flight.
- Modular Architecture: The system is designed to evolve over time, enabling airlines to continuously upgrade their Astrova systems as new technology versions become available. This helps protect the airline’s investment and ensures passengers can enjoy the latest consumer technology.
Qantas and Icelandair: Early Adopters of Astrova
Qantas, as part of its Project Sunrise initiative to offer direct flights from Australia to Europe and New York, has chosen Astrova for its newly ordered Airbus A350-1000 aircraft and retrofitted A330-200 fleet. The airline recognized the need for a new in-flight engagement system to cater to the unique needs and expectations of passengers on ultra-long-haul routes.
Cleared for take-off! Panasonic Avionics celebrated a major milestone this week with the very first shipment of our new Astrova monitors, destined for our launch customer, @Icelandair pic.twitter.com/PpVm3XQpy3
— Panasonic Avionics (@PanasonicAero) March 14, 2024
Icelandair, another early adopter of Astrova, is the first company to receive the systems, ready to install on its forthcoming Airbus A321neo LR aircraft. The airline’s passengers can expect 16″ Astrova OLED monitors in business class and 13″ in economy, along with the benefits of high dynamic range HDR 10+ and high fidelity multi-channel spatial audio.
Sustainability and Future-Proofing
In addition to enhancing the passenger experience, Astrova also supports airline sustainability efforts. The system’s lightweight design helps reduce fuel consumption, while its modular architecture minimizes the need to recycle materials and maximizes the system’s lifespan.
