Qantas takes wi-fi to Australian skies

Supplied by Lufthansa Systems, Qantas has launched its Q Streaming in-flight ground-breaking entertainment system.  Fitted experimentally on regular Boeing 767-300 Qantas passengers are able to enjoy over 200 hours of on demand movies, television and radio programmes, streamed direct to a wi-fi enabled device.  This is an even greater choice than what is currently available on the airline’s international flights.  Initially, the trial will involve tablets provided by Qantas.  The plan is to offer the service on passenger-owned devices at a later stage.

The innovative infotainment system is based on Lufthansa Systems’ BoardConnect, a wi-fi network comprising an on-board server and five access points distributed throughout the cabin.  As no wiring is required, the system is much easier to install than regular IFE systems.  It can be integrated during regular maintenance checks and without additional downtime, saving up to 50% in installation costs compared to legacy systems.  Moreover, the elimination of wiring and data distribution hardware can lead to weight savings of nearly half a ton for a Boeing 767-300.  This reduces annual fuel consumption by around 20 tonnes per aircraft, while operating and maintenance costs can also be greatly reduced. www.lhsystems.com www.qantas.com

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