• Panasonic and Bombardier team up to offer line-fit installation of broadband connectivity system for the first time on a single-aisle aircraft

Bombardier Aerospace announced today that the installation of a satellite-based Ku-band antenna on CSeries flight test vehicle one (FTV1) is now complete. The installation comes as the company teams with Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic) to offer in-flight global connectivity as a line-fit option for the first time on a single-aisle aircraft.

The Panasonic eXConnect^® system allows operators of CSeries aircraft to provide passengers with a wide range of connectivity solutions, including internet browsing, incoming and outgoing email, mobile telephony (with the addition of Panasonic’s eXPhone^® system), as well as live television content from both satellite or ground reception (with the addition of Panasonic’s eXTV^® system).

“The eXConnect^® system is the only global broadband, in-flight connectivity service available in the world today, and we are thrilled that it has been chosen to join other advanced technology systems on the all-new, innovative CSeries aircraft,” said David Bruner, Vice President, Global Communication Services, Panasonic Avionics Corporation. “It is very exciting that airlines can now select our eXConnect^® system for line-fit installation and provide a truly unique passenger experience enhanced with broadband internet access, VPN services, email and much more.”

“We’re excited to publicly share this news about the line-fit option for in-flight connectivity as it demonstrates once again how we are equipping the CSeries aircraft with leading-edge technologies. Today’s passengers welcome the convenience that in-flight connectivity brings and we are working to support airlines in providing the best passenger experience,” said Robert Dewar, Vice President, CSeries Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “In addition to offering connectivity solutions such as eXConnect^®, the CSeries family of aircraft has also been designed to support embedded audio and video on-demand (AVOD) systems to deliver high-quality entertainment solutions directly to passengers via seat-back monitors and also via wireless broadcast.”

During early program phases, the CSeries aircraft’s design team reserved space for a variety of AVOD and connectivity systems to ensure there would be no impact on the aircraft’s cargo or cabin stowage spaces.

CSeries aircraft
Designed for the growing 100- to 149-seat market, the 100 per cent new CSeries aircraft family combines advanced materials, leading-edge technology and proven methods to meet commercial airline requirements. Powered by Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1500G engines, the CSeries aircraft family will offer a 15* per cent cash operating cost advantage and a 20* per cent fuel burn advantage. With the extra capacity seating option, the CS300 aircraft’s productivity further improves, offering airlines an average of four* per cent additional cash operating cost advantage per seat.

The CSeries aircraft’s clean-sheet design is ensuring that the aircraft will achieve greatly reduced noise and emissions, as well as superior operational flexibility, exceptional airfield performance and a range of 2,950 NM (5,463 km)*. The CSeries aircraft will be up to 12,000 lbs. (5,443 kg)* lighter than other aircraft in the same seat category and will provide passengers with a best-in-class, widebody cabin environment in a single-aisle aircraft.

As of March 31, 2014 Bombardier had booked orders and commitments for 447 CSeries aircraft, which include firm orders for 203 CSeries airliners. Some 18 customers and operators have joined the CSeries aircraft program.