SIA Engineering, Panasonic to Explore MRO JV

SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Panasonic Avionics, based in Lake Forest, Calif., to explore the feasibility of forming a MRO joint venture for Panasonic's in-flight entertainment and communications (IFEC) systems and components, the companies announced this week.

Under terms of the MOU, according to Panasonic, both parties will work toward a definitive agreement to set up a regional Centre of Excellence for Panasonic Avionics components used in current and future Panasonic Avionics IFEC systems. Also, Panasonic said, with its location in Singapore, the proposed joint venture will enable airlines in the Asia-Pacific region to benefit from OEM services.

"The proposed joint venture will cater to a growing market of advanced IFEC systems which are increasingly being adopted by airlines to enhance passenger appeal,” said SIAEC CEO William Tan. "The OEM facility will complement SIAEC’s integrated MRO solutions by providing airlines with one-stop turnkey solutions for IFEC upgrades and seamless technical support during operation."