Avionics & Systems Integration Group (ASIG), based in Little Rock, Ark., said Friday it had been awarded a FAA supplemental type certificate (STC) for the installation and in-flight operation of a distributed power supply system for use with passenger and crew personal electronic devices (PSS for PED) in Embraer EMB-145s.
The company said installation options are approved for multiple cabin configurations supporting up to 50 passengers as well as flight deck crew positions. ASIG said the PSS for PED represents Phase II of its cabin improvements program, which was designed to enhance the in-flight experience aboard regional aircraft. Phase III of the program, scheduled to complete in late 2010, is currently slated to include cabin Wi-Fi and cached in-flight entertainment options including movies, television programming and streamed music to passenger supplied, Wi-Fi enabled, laptops, smartphones and media devices.
“The value of the overall program resides not only in the enhancements to the customer experience, but also in the air carriers overall ability to either monetize or provide value added, these additional services and conveniences as they seek to expand their market share. Mainline carriers are using their regional partners to serve ever longer flight segments much to the disapproval of the flying public due to their lack of cabin service options.” William Helliwell, ASIG manager of engineering and programs.