Start-up carrier ZIPAIR (of Japan) has selected its in-flight connectivity provider – and it’s Panasonic Avionics who will be powering their connectivity
ZIPAIR Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner – Image, ZIPAIR
The airline will fit the Panasonic connectivity solution to its pair of Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which come from its parent company of Japan Airlines. In the design of the passenger Boeing 787-8 cabin, ZIPAIR chose to not fit any other IFE elements onboard (such as individual screens or audio system).
Panasonic’s next-generation connectivity enables a host of connectivity benefits, from fast internet to video streaming, all powered by its new satellite modem featuring bandwidth up to twenty times greater than previously available. This announcement marks the beginning of Panasonic’s relationship with ZIPAIR.
ZIPAIR is still in startup mode after being inaugurated in 2018, as a low-cost airline arm for Japan airlines. the airline plans to operate medium to long-haul international flights. The airline has been operating cargo-only flights between Tokyo and Seoul/Bangkok (with them code-shared with Japan Airlines).
Passenger operations will commence on 16th October 2020, with the airline allowing passengers on the Tokyo-Narita to Seoul-Incheon route.
In Quotes
Shingo Nishida, President of ZIPAIR, said:
“By making the most of inflight Wi-Fi services provided by Panasonic Avionics, we hope to become an airline that gives customers the freedom to spend time on the plane in their own personal way and that makes flight time feel short.”
Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said: “
We’re thrilled to be partnering with ZIPAIR to enhance their passenger experience with our world-class inflight connectivity. Our advanced inflight solutions will help ZIPAIR drive brand loyalty, encouraging their passengers to return time and again.”
Filling in an IFE gap
By choosing not to install an IFE system in their aircraft, there are benefits to ZIPAIR – namely, the cost of provisioning a system, the maintenance of it and licencing content. However, it leaves passengers either looking at a cabin, the seat in front of them or resorting to stored content (or dread the thought – books and magazine).
With the addition of inflight Wi-fi, it should provide amusement to passengers, as well as allowing them to be connected.
Which in these times might be more valuable than ever.
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