Thales and SITA to stream IFE onto passengers’ own devices

In-flight entertainment specialist Thales and connectivity expert SITA have successfully partnered their two solutions to create a solution, which can be played through a passenger’s own device.

The technology, which uses Thales GateSync and SITA’s e-Aircraft Services, is currently being trialled on LAN Airlines.

Stuart Dunleavy, vice president of Media & Connectivity at Thales’s In Flight Entertainment Systems business said: “Thales is committed to delivering high performance digital media distribution. The combination of Thales expertise in the development of in-flight entertainment and passenger connectivity solutions, with SITA’s recognised specialisation in air transport communications and IT solutions is central to the success of this initiative. Each party is bringing its strengths to this project.”

Sebastien Fabre, vice president, Integrated Networks, SITA said: “SITA and Thales are unlocking the maximum benefits achievable from e-connected aircraft. This technology is not just for IFE, but can be for all data. In effect, we are making the aircraft an active node in the airline’s enterprise network, allowing data control by all stakeholders within the airline. Passengers get on-demand IFE, while time-sensitive data such as passenger manifests, daily news, meal inventories, surveys, crew logs and system performance data can also be securely transmitted to the airline’s operational systems.

“SITA is currently experiencing data volume growth on new generation aircraft (A380 and B787) approaching 100% compared to older generation aircraft. This demonstrates that the development of aircraft-centric IP service management is essential to meet the needs of airlines.”