Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic Avionics) has announced a landmark 10-year agreement with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s premium global airline, to provide in-flight entertainment maintenance support for their fleet of confirmed orders of 32 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
Panasonic Technical Services (PTS) will also establish a new line maintenance station in Riyadh. Technical teams with specialized knowledge of the Dreamliner’s advanced systems will deliver top-tier PTS MRO services. Panasonic Avionics’ new investment in Saudi Arabia includes local staff hires at the PTS line maintenance station. Panasonic will advance education and training to support this innovative project.
The maintenance agreement includes the provision of PTS’ Total Care Package, which ensures seamless aircraft operation and optimal passenger experience. This strategic agreement combines both companies’ commitment to innovation and excellence in the industry.
As Riyadh Air, the world’s first digitally native airline, develops future flying experiences, Panasonic Avionics will continue to enhance passenger experiences and provide its customers with opportunities to stand out in the market.
PTS’ 25 years of dependability and service will deliver an invaluable OEM experience that Riyadh Air will benefit from as it commences passenger flights in late 2025. The agreement will provide Riyadh Air with:
Comprehensive line maintenance support
On-site technical expertise
Proactive maintenance planning
24/7 technical support
Spares and repair services
Fully compliant Part 145 services
Panasonic Avionics’ new investment in Saudi Arabia includes local staff hires at the PTS line maintenance station.
Tom Eskola, Vice President, Panasonic Technical Services at Panasonic Avionics, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Riyadh Air on this long-term agreement. Our Total Care Package service is set to provide proactive, comprehensive support, minimizing downtime and ensuring consistently exceptional operational performance and passenger experience. With a new dedicated base in Saudi Arabia, we are demonstrating our commitment to providing Riyadh Air with the highest level of service and support, combining our expertise in both aircraft maintenance and IFE systems.”
Peter Belew, Chief Operations Officer at Riyadh Air, said: “Delivering a consistent, premium passenger experience is at the heart of everything we do. When it came to supporting our IFE systems, Panasonic Technical Services was best positioned to provide the necessary care and expertise. We are confident that this strategic agreement will ensure our passengers enjoy a world-class IFE experience on every flight.”
Riyadh Air also selected Panasonic Avionics’ seat end solution, Astrova, for its entire Boeing 787-9 fleet last year, further solidifying the relationship between the two companies.
About Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Panasonic Avionics Corporation is the world’s leading supplier of in-flight engagement and communication systems. The company pioneered the industry beginning in 1979 and has consistently introduced innovations that enable unique customer experiences and enhance airline loyalty (NPS), ancillary revenue, and operational efficiency.
Over 200 leading airlines across the world have chosen to install Panasonic Avionics in-flight engagement, satellite Wi-Fi connectivity, and digital services on their aircraft. Panasonic Avionics’ proven systems are supported by the largest, global support and services team utilizing OEM insights to ensure peak system performance.
Panasonic Avionics Corporation is headquartered in California with over 3,500 employees and operates in 50 locations around the globe. For additional information, please visit www.panasonic.aero
About Riyadh Air
Riyadh Air, a PIF company, is a world-class airline. Launched in March 2023, the airline will be a digitally led, full-service airline that adopts the best global sustainability and safety practices across its advanced fleet of aircraft. Riyadh Air will equip its aircraft with the most advanced, state-of-the-art features with innovative, best-in-class cabin interiors and experiences, including next generation digital in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity solutions. Riyadh Air will connect guests to over 100 destinations around the world by 2030 through offering an exceptional guest experience with an authentic, warm Saudi hospitality at its heart. Website: www.riyadhair.com.
Featured image credited to Panasonic Avionics
