MRO company SR Technics said it has become a turnkey solution provider for the installation of Panasonic Avionics' new Ku-band satellite-supported global communications suite (GCS) on board aircraft.
An initial agreement between the two firms will see SR Technics modify Gulf Air's Airbus A320 family of aircraft and Airbus A330s, as well as an A319 operated by an undisclosed Middle Eastern airline.
Installations began last month on Gulf Air's fleet and will take one-and-a-half years to complete, said SR Technics, which noted that all work will be carried out at SR Technics' headquarters in Zurich.
"Future opportunities will be reviewed, following this initial installation programme," added the firm, which is developing new capabilities and design standards in in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) modifications.
In June, Panasonic added Gulf Air to its rapidly growing list of customers for the GCS, which includes in-flight high-speed broadband Internet, mobile connectivity and live television over IP.
"With our skills and experience we can ensure on-time delivery of all modification work, in line with Panasonic's high quality standards," said SR Technics America general manager Sean O'Connor in a statement.
"Additionally, the airlines can use the opportunity to combine the GCS installation with other maintenance and component services requirements. In that way, we help our industry partners enhance their asset utilisation."
SR Technics and Panasonic could not provide immediate additional comment.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
