Panasonic Avionics And Telesat Enhance In-Flight Connectivity Over South America

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Sep 10, 2013, 07:22 ET

ANAHEIM, California, September 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

Panasonic Avionics Corporation today announced that it has significantly enhanced the coverage and capacity of its in-flight connectivity service over South America through the use of Telesat's new Anik G1 satellite. Anik G1, which began commercial service in May, dramatically increases capacity over South America with greater power than earlier generation satellites covering this rapidly growing region.

David Bruner, Vice President, Global Communication Services for Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said, "The strategic upgrade of our global Ku-band aeronautical network with Anik G1 clearly demonstrates a key advantage of our service offering. We have the unique ability to scale coverage and capacity anywhere in the world where our customers fly. This flexibility not only helps guarantee that we will always provide the best coverage for airlines and that we will continue to offer the highest bandwidth for the lowest price per bit."

"Panasonic's decision to use Anik G1 over South America is a strong endorsement of the capabilities and advantages of Telesat's newest satellite," said Nigel Gibson Vice President, International Sales for Telesat. "We applaud Panasonic for establishing a robust aero network that is able to meet South America's growing communications needs. Telesat now has five satellites serving Latin America and is pleased to be supporting innovative providers like Panasonic who are ready to capitalize on the favorable demand trends across the region."

The increased capacity will allow even more growth for in-flight broadband services and greater support for Panasonic's unique eXTV live in-flight television service.

Bruner added, "With the 2014 World Cup in Brazil approaching, the extra capacity ensures fans will be able to watch the exclusive Sport 24 network, which is offered in conjunction with IMG Media, and catch key matches while travelling to South America and even to the tournament."

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 Telesat (http://www.telesat.com)

Telesat is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecom, corporate and government customers. Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, with offices and facilities around the world, the company's state-of-the-art fleet consists of 14 satellites and the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 with another satellite under construction. Telesat also manages the operations of additional satellites for third parties. Privately held, Telesat's principal shareholders are Canada's Public Sector Pension Investment Board and Loral Space & Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: LORL).

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]