On December 5, Thales announced that it has signed a significant avionics deal with AirAsia X, the Malaysia-based long-haul low-cost airline, to supply critical avionic components, satcom systems and in-flight entertainment systems (IFE) to its new fleet - due for delivery from the end of next year onwards.

The agreement, officiated at Asia-Pacific's premier aviation and maritime exhibition - LIMA, highlights Thales's promise to provide AirAsia X's expanding fleet of 15 new Airbus 330-300s (with a further option of 10 more), new cutting-edge IFE systems, satellite communications (Satcom) technology and critical avionics components.

Emmanuel Grave, Vice President, General Manager of Thales's aerospace activities said, "We are delighted to have been selected by this highly successful airline and we are proud to strengthen our long term relationship with AirAsia and AirAsia X. This is a significant win for Thales and reinforces the company's presence in this fast developing market."

Thales's in-flight entertainment systems is the latest, state-of-the-art TopSeries in-seat system with which AirAsia X passengers will enjoy an extensive range of features such as movies, music, games as well as other interactive opportunities available at a touch of the screen. The in-seat hardware, which will be installed in both the XL and Economy seats, will include a power connector and USB port, as well as an 8.9 inch widescreen display.

Azran Osman-Rani, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X, said, "After extensive reviews, we are excited to sign up with a truly world-class business partner in aviation electronics. This partnership demonstrates our resolve to provide our passengers with the very best entertainment service onboard. Our guests onboard our new A330s will soon be able to navigate between movies, charge their phones, surf the net or purchase drinks all at a touch of a screen. As this will be delivered on a pay-per-use basis, we continue to believe in empowering our guests with the ability to choose and enjoy what they want. The TopSeries system also provides ample potential for advertising which we will be able to translate to lower retail cost and super low fares for our guests,"

With the Thales TopFlight Swift Satcom systems, AirAsia X will boast full connectivity for both cabin and flight-deck. Thales Satcom, in partnership with OnAir, will provide a suite of services that will allow passengers to take advantage of wi-fi Internet and voice transmission during flight giving opportunity for them to use their own portable electronic devices, including laptop computers, mobile phones, and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs).

Other significant avionic components to be featured in the new A330-300 include the latest generation Flight Management System, Terrain and Traffic Collision Avoidance System (T2CAS) and Mode S.

Thales will support AirAsia X in after sales, repair and maintenance via its Thales Repair by-the-hour and Turn Key Maintenance package for 15 years.