Panasonic Avionics opens new software design facility in Pune

Panasonic Avionics Corporation, a supplier of in-flight engagement and connectivity (IFEC), inaugurated a new software design and development center in Pune on Wednesday. 

The new facility, inaugurated by the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, is the first in India dedicated to supporting the development and delivery of IFEC solutions. 

“With its huge number of skilled engineers, and fast-growing aviation sector, India is a natural location for us to invest in for the future of our business,” said Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation.

Over 200 skilled engineers have been employed at the point of launch, with growth plans in place to scale the software engineering talent at the facility to support the increasing demand from airlines for IFEC solutions that will deliver personalized experiences for their passengers, the statement said. 

Digital Solutions

Airlines are constantly seeking improved ways to up their services since passenger expectations regarding in-flight entertainment and connection are changing rapidly. Offering individualised service as well as a variety of digital and networking solutions is made possible in large part by software design and development. 

The new software design and development facility is integral to the company’s strategy of enabling airlines to realize their passenger digital engagement visions by using the most innovative IFEC solutions.

“The Pune facility is the latest in our series of investments in India and we are looking to cater to multiple markets and airlines with innovative solutions for in-flight engagement and communication (IFEC),” said Manish Sharma, Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India and South Asia, and Director, Panasonic Avionics India.

Exploring the Indian Market

In 2021, Panasonic Avionics began working with Infosys on a build-own-transfer basis at their development center in India. Since then, the company moved the project in-house to their Pune location. With 200 engineers, Panasonic plans to grow to 400 to meet the demands of international airlines, including Air India programs based in Pune.

The company currently provides services such as in-flight engagement, satellite Wi-Fi connectivity, and digital services to over 200 leading airlines across the world.