Finnair to Use ARINC Message System

Finnish airline Finnair is using ARINC’s seatback SMS/e-mail messaging service on its newest Airbus A340 aircraft used on Asian routes. Financial terms were not disclosed. The service is operational on Finnair’s two newest A340’s, which were delivered in May and June. ARINC will deploy the service on additional A340s after delivery in 2008. ARINC’s seatback messaging solution is a joint initiative of ARINC and Panasonic, running on Panasonic’s 2000e, 3000, 3000i and eX2 platforms. Seatback messaging allows airline passengers to exchange e-mails and SMS text messages using Panasonic’s In-Flight Entertainment handsets and seatback screens installed on the aircraft. “Finnair is pleased with the initial response of our customers to ARINC’s seatback messaging service,” said Tero Lohimäki, Finnair, director of cabin interiors. “We believe by allowing passengers to stay in touch during long flights we can make a positive contribution to their overall comfort and customer satisfaction.”