Astronics Corporation preview LiFi Applications for Aircraft

Astronics Corporation a leading provider of advanced technologies for the global aerospace, defense and semiconductor industries, will demonstrate how LiFi will improve an aircraft’s passenger experience and operational efficiency at the upcoming APEX Expo in Boston, September 25-27.

PDT, an Astronics Company, will demonstrate some new potential applications for the emerging technology of LiFi, in a collaboration with pureLiFi. LiFi leverages light to send information, in contrast to Wi-Fi, which uses radio waves. Proven capable of transferring data at an unprecedented several Gigabits per second, LiFi could eventually empower passengers to download an HD video in just a few seconds, for example.

Mark Schwartz, Vice President of PDT, an Astronics Company.

“This is a brand new technology and we are exploring ways in which it can improve the passenger, and even crew, experience on an aircraft in terms of connectivity,” said  ”LiFi may be a future passenger experience delighter and we are excited to explore and discuss these possibilities with it.”

Powering Connectivity

Also at APEX, Astronics will demonstrate a myriad of power systems to power both seat-back connectivity systems as well as the passengers’ personal electronic devices (PEDs) used in bring-your-own-device IFE business models. Innovations shown in the booth will include the recently introduced wireless charging module for PEDs as well as the new EmPower® USB Type-C outlets and companion in-seat power supply system.

Astronics brings a long history of innovation and successfully introducing new technologies and products to market, including the EmPower passenger in-seat power technology that has had a profound impact on the passenger experience. These new technology explorations can provide a foundation for future aircraft manufacturers, airlines, IFE providers, and other industry participants to improve experiences for passengers while also improving cost and time efficiencies for aircraft operators.

Astronics will give demonstrations of LiFi and other technologies in booth #343 on-demand throughout the three days of the show.

Appointments can also be made by emailing events@astronics.com

ABOUT ASTRONICS CORPORATION

Astronics Corporation serves the world’s aerospace, defense and semiconductor industries with proven, innovative technology solutions. Astronics works side-by-side with customers, integrating its array of power, connectivity, lighting, structures, interiors, and test technologies to solve complex challenges. For 50 years, Astronics has delivered creative, customer-focused solutions with exceptional responsiveness. Today, global airframe manufacturers, airlines, military branches, completion centers, and Fortune 500 companies rely on the collaborative spirit and innovation of Astronics.

ABOUT APEX EXPO

The APEX EXPO is the industry’s largest PaxEx event exclusive to experts and decision-makers committed to elevating the level of the worldwide airline passenger experience. The four-day premier event features top-notch seminars led by industry experts, the latest and most comprehensive display of airline-related technologies, products and services, and valuable networking opportunities. The EXPO will attract more than 3,000 industry professionals, including representatives from nearly 100 airlines and some 300 content providers, OEMs, systems manufacturers and other industry suppliers from around the globe. The EXPO will also be co-located with International Flight Services Association Conference & Expo and Aircraft Interiors Expo. 

Click here to watch Prof Harald Haas discuss LiFi’s bright future in the aircraft cabin with FINN