Panasonic Avionics signs MoU with China’s SpaceSail constellation. Photo: Panasonic Avionics

Panasonic Avionics said it is developing plans to integrate Shanghai Spacesail Technologies’ planned Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation into its in-flight connectivity network.

The California-based in-flight engagement and connectivity (IFEC) provider said Wednesday the companies had signed a memorandum of understanding allowing them to begin collaboration.

The agreement represents a milestone in Panasonic Avionics’ ability to deliver connectivity to the Asia-Pacific region, the company said. Shanghai Spacesail is a Chinese LEO constellation, with 108 satellites in orbit, according to Chinese state media.

“Adding Spacesail’s LEO constellation to Panasonic Avionics’ portfolio will enable us to provide passengers with connectivity over every country, strengthening our network and reinforcing our strategy of providing airlines with the performance, flexibility and future-proofed capability they require,” commented John Wade, vice president of Connectivity at Panasonic Avionics.

Spacesail signed a similar MoU with Airbus to integrate its future network into the Airbus HBCplus in-flight connectivity portfolio.