Panasonic Avionics Overcomes Covid Supply Chain Challenges
Panasonic Avionics Says Supply Chain Woes Are a Thing of the past
Despite industry-wide challenges during the pandemic, the in-flight entertainment and connectivity giant reports smooth sailing for its supply chain.
Panasonic Avionics, a leading provider of in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems, has overcome the supply chain bottlenecks that plagued many industries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve been good for a while,” Andrew Masson, vice president of product & portfolio management at Panasonic Avionics, told Runway Girl Network on December 3rd at Keflavík airport (KEF). Masson’s comments came as Icelandair celebrated the arrival of its first Airbus A321LR, outfitted with Panasonic Avionics’ new 4K OLED-based Astrova IFE system.
The company’s success in navigating supply chain disruptions stems from a strategic move by its parent company, Panasonic Holdings Corporation. By pooling the demand for electronic components across its various divisions – including automotive, consumer electronics, and avionics – Panasonic Holdings became one of the world’s largest consumers of these crucial parts.
“At that point we became the second biggest consumer of electrical components on the planet, and at that point we could get anything we wanted,” Masson explained. “We were very good in terms of our IFE from then.”
This proactive approach has allowed Panasonic Avionics to avoid the parts shortages that have impacted other IFEC suppliers, such as Recaro aircraft Seating.
“I don’t think we have any major supply chain issues at all,” Masson confirmed when asked about ongoing shortages.
While Panasonic Avionics has largely sidestepped major supply chain hurdles, Masson acknowledged that the company has had to make some adjustments.
“There have been a couple of suppliers that we had to design around or introduce something else in there,” he noted. “Which I don’t really like doing as we want people to do well and we have a very loyal and good supply chain. But, there’s a couple of people that couldn’t make it and we had to introduce over a new platform or vertically integrate.”
Despite these minor challenges, Panasonic Avionics remains confident in its ability to deliver cutting-edge IFEC solutions to airlines around the world. The company’s commitment to innovation and its robust supply chain position it well for continued success in the evolving aviation landscape.
Proving Resilient: Panasonic Avionics Charts Course Through Supply Chain Storms
Icelandair Unveils New A321LR with Panasonic Avionics’ Innovative ‘Astrova’ IFE System
Panasonic Avionics, a global leader in in-flight entertainment adn connectivity (IFEC) solutions, has emerged from the turbulent supply chain landscape stronger than ever. While the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for numerous industries, Panasonic Avionics has managed to secure a steady flow of essential components, ensuring minimal disruption to its operations.
Andrew Masson, Vice President of Product & portfolio Management at Panasonic Avionics, emphasized this positive trajectory during a recent interview with Runway Girl Network at Keflavík Airport (KEF). The occasion marked a celebratory milestone for Icelandair as it welcomed its first Airbus A321LR, adorned with Panasonic Avionics’ cutting-edge Astrova IFE system featuring 4K OLED displays.
Masson attributes Panasonic Avionics’ success to a strategic decision by its parent company, Panasonic Holdings Corporation. By consolidating component demand across its diverse divisions, spanning automotive, consumer electronics, and avionics, Panasonic Holdings became a global giant in the electronics component market.
“We became the second biggest consumer of electrical components on the planet,” Masson explained,”and at that point we could get anything we wanted.” This unparalleled purchasing power shielded Panasonic Avionics from the crippling parts shortages that have plagued other IFEC suppliers, such as Recaro Aircraft Seating.
“I don’t think we have any major supply chain issues at all,” Masson confidently confirmed.
While Panasonic Avionics has largely evaded major supply chain disruptions,Masson acknowledged the need for minor adjustments. In a few instances, the company had to redesign systems or incorporate option components.However, he emphasized Panasonic Avionics’ commitment to its supply chain partners, stating,
“We want people to do well and we have a very loyal and good supply chain.”
looking ahead, Panasonic avionics remains steadfast in its mission to deliver innovative IFEC solutions to airlines worldwide. Backed by a robust supply chain and unwavering dedication to technological advancement, Panasonic Avionics is well-positioned for continued success in the dynamic aviation industry.