A multi-engine, instrument rated pilot, James Wynbrandt has been an AIN and Business Jet Traveler contributor since 2003. His in-depth reporting and insightful features have won more than a dozen editorial honors, including two National Business Aviation Association Gold Wing Awards (2019; 2021), and his articles have also appeared in the New York Times, Barron’s, Fortune, Forbes, and Smithsonian Air &amp; Space. He has flown his Mooney M20K 252 on assignments throughout North and Central America and the Caribbean. Wynbrandt is also the author of Flying High (Wiley &amp; Sons), a biography of Jet Blue founder David Neeleman, as well as histories, references works, and books on a variety of other topics from major publishers. He lives in New York City.

Contributor - Business Aviation

James Wynbrandt

Astronics PGA, a division of Astronics Corp., is introducing its new Smart Wireless Handset for VIP in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems this week at EBACE 2018. The handset— on display at its exhibit (Booth I105)—serves as an all-in-one phone and passenger control unit for in-flight entertainment, lighting, seat control, flight information, and other cabin functions. It is the first certified product available that combines cabin control and phone functions in a single wireless device, according to the U.S. company.

 


The handset can make and receive calls anywhere in the world from anywhere in the cabin. Users can embed contacts and use the wireless system for videoconferencing and Internet access, as well as voice calls. It includes a docking station that powers the handset via wireless Qi technology, providing cable-free convenience. When docked, the handset uses an illuminated color transition to notify users of incoming calls, text messages, or other communications.

 


According to Fabrice Berthelot, president of Astronics PGA, the device features the sleek and elegant lines of today’s popular smartphones, and customers can choose from a variety of options and finishes, including leather, carbon, jewel,&nbsp;and wood. The design offers opportunities for “significant customization,” he added. The Smart Wireless Handset has no standard price; cost will be negotiated based on configuration, finishing, and quantity.

 


Astronics has a launch customer for the handset, which will be available early next year,&nbsp;but no details on the agreement or the customer’s identity can be disclosed “at this time,” Berthelot told AIN. The Smart Wireless Handset is part of the Astronics&nbsp;Carat Senses System, which includes the new Mila and Philea reading and seat lights.

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

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