China Eastern Airlines is working with Panasonic Avionics to provide broadband connectivity to 84 of its aircrafts.

The plan would be carried out in cooperation with China Telecom Satellite. Shanghai-based China Eastern Airlines would become the first to offer broadband Wi-Fi connectivity on flights over Chinese airspace, strengthening its long-term relationship with Panasonic, Aviation Pros reported.

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The agreement includes 35 line-fit aircraft with an extensive retrofit program covering an added 49 aircraft, including one B737-800 (retrofit), four B767-300 (retrofit), two B767-300ER (retrofit), 20 B777-300 (line fit), 31 A330-200 (retrofit), 11 A330-300 (retrofit), and 15 A330-300 (line fit).

The Global Communications Services of Panasonic can be accessed across the country and on over 99.6 percent air traffic routes, enabling China Eastern passengers to gain access to the Internet, use email, and check on their favorite social media sites while in-flight.

"We have been helping China Eastern Airlines offer connected flights since November 2015 and remain the only provider operating over China today," Paul Margis, Panasonic Avionics Corporation's CEO, and President, said. "Passengers increasingly expect the availability of reliable broadband Wi-Fi around the world and the roll out of this service across the China Eastern fleet will enable it to provide a connected service for its passengers." 

Meanwhile, Zhang Chi, China Eastern Airline's Deputy Director, said that the company is "committed to transforming the in-flight experience for our passengers." He added that the company has been seeking partners to engage passengers and maximize profits.

"We look forward to the continued development of this extremely exciting service with the team at Panasonic Avionics," he added.

Panasonic utilizes the global Ku-band satellite network to make broadband connectivity available in a flying aircraft - even over oceans.

TagsChina Eastern Airlines, Panasonic Avionics, broadband, China airspace, inflight internet