Panasonic Avionics and China Telecom Satellite Communications Limited Partner to Connect the Skies Over China

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Jul 25, 2013, 06:21 ET

LAKE FOREST, California, July 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

Panasonic Avionics has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China Telecom Satellite Communications Limited (China Telecom Satellite) to jointly develop, implement and support in-flight connectivity solutions for the Chinese market.

The signing of the MOU will also make possible the first ever provision of in-flight connectivity to Panasonic's 36 non-Chinese customer airlines when flying into and over China.

Panasonic Avionics' eXConnect system uses its global Ku-band aeronautical satellite network to deliver in-flight broadband connectivity, enabling passengers to access the internet, send email or log onto their favorite social media sites.

Paul Margis, CEO of Panasonic Avionics, says: "While there is still work to be done in order to complete the cooperation agreement, we have made great progress with China Telecom Satellite towards providing this very important service to our airline customers and their passengers. We believe China Telecom Satellite will be a very strong and effective partner for China's in-flight communication market."

China Telecom Satellite stated: "We are very pleased to partner with Panasonic Avionics as they have an established track record and are a proving to be strong provider of high-quality in-flight communications services to both international and Chinese airlines."

Both parties are working to complete their formal contract over the coming weeks and plan to begin offering commercial in-flight connectivity services in the fourth quarter of 2013.

About Panasonic Avionics Corporation

Established in 1979, Panasonic Avionics Corporation, a U.S. corporation, is a subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. Headquartered in Lake Forest, California with over 3,100 employees and operations in 80 locations worldwide, it serves over 200 customers worldwide and provides in-flight entertainment and communication (IFEC) systems on over 3,700 aircraft.

Panasonic Avionics Corporation is the world's leading supplier of IFEC systems. The company's best-in-class solutions, supported by professional maintenance services, fully integrate with the cabin enabling airlines to deliver the ultimate travel experiences with a rich variety of entertainment choices, resulting in improved quality communication systems and solutions, reduced time-to-market and lower overall costs.

For additional information, please visit http://www.panasonic.aero

About China Telecom Satellite Communications Limited

Dedicated to satellite communications services, China Telecom Satellite Communications Co. Ltd, as a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Telecom, specializes in the operation of its parent corporation's satellite communications business. It serves as the resource center, product integration center and professional support center of China Telecom's satellite communications business, mainly engaged in Satellite mobile communications, Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) communications, International private line and Satellite broadband access, etc., providing integrated (Aviation/Land) satellite communications and broadcasting operating service with characteristics to subscribers.

For additional information, please visit http://www.ctsat.cn

Press Contacts

Brian Bardwell
Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Tel: +1-949-462-1742
E-Mail: [email protected]

Steve Double
Tel: +44(0)7917-067580
E-Mail: [email protected]

Charlie Hampton
Tel: +44(0)7884-187297
E-Mail: [email protected]

Emma Ballantine Dykes
Tel: +44(0)7768-293525
E-Mail: [email protected]