Saudia has flown the first Airbus A321XLR aircraft equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova inflight engagement (IFE) solution.
The flight also marked the first deployment of Panasonic Avionics’ Modular Interactive (MI) platform and Arc interactive map application in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Arabian flag carrier selected the Astrova IFE solution, MI and Arc for 15 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, building on a longstanding relationship with Panasonic Avionics.
The IFE experience features 4K OLED HDR10+ displays and spatial audio powered by Bluetooth technology. Each seat features up to 67W of USB-C direct current power for the fast charging of mobile phones and personal electronic devices.
MI Studio allows Saudia to rapidly deploy seasonal updates, promotional campaigns, loyalty experiences and tailored content across the seatback interface.
Passengers will experience the Arc 3D moving map application, which combines visuals, real-time data and storytelling for an interactive onboard engagement experience.
Aziz Koseni, Head of Sales for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Panasonic Avionics, said: “We are delighted to see our award-winning Astrova solution, MI and Arc enter service onboard the Airbus A321XLR for the first time, and especially with our longstanding customer, Saudia. This latest deployment reflects the airline’s continued investment in delivering a guest experience that aligns with its ambitious growth strategy and vision for the future of travel.”
Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia, said: “We continue to reimagine the guest journey at Saudia through every detail of the onboard experience. With the introduction of Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova system, Modular Interactive platform and Arc 3D moving map on our A321XLR, we are taking the next step in the evolution of our BEYOND in-flight entertainment experience. This technology allows us to bring richer storytelling, greater personalisation, and a more immersive digital journey to our guests, while supporting Saudia’s broader investment in a more seamless, modern and authentically Saudi travel experience.”
