US-based in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems provider Panasonic Avionics has collaborated with Hunter Communications and Eutelsat Americas to improve in-flight connectivity over Canada.

The partnership represents the expansion of a multi-transponder contract signed between Hunter Communications and Eutelsat Americas on the Eutelsat 115 West B satellite.

Panasonic Avionics has already been using the North American beam of the satellite under an arrangement with Hunter to provide connectivity to its domestic customers flying on routes from Newfoundland to Yukon.

“This collaboration with long-time partners Hunter and Eutelsat is an example of Panasonic continuing to implement our ongoing plan to add substantial additional capacity to our global network."

The newly signed deal will help Panasonic to address the growing demand for in-flight connectivity from its customers on these routes.

Panasonic Avionics global sales vice-president David Bruner said: “This collaboration with long-time partners Hunter and Eutelsat is an example of Panasonic continuing to implement our ongoing plan to add substantial additional capacity to our global network, furthering our mission of adding value to our customers and delighting end-users.”

The company's existing product portfolio of IFEC systems, including in-flight entertainment technology, connectivity services and consumer technologies help airlines achieve their business objectives.

Earlier this month, Panasonic Avionics subsidiary AeroMobile added a new aircraft to its 3.5G mobile network.

The AeroMobile service enables passengers to use their own mobile devices in-flight to text, make calls, listen to voicemail and browse the internet.