Notes from IFE in Embraer Regional Jets

Embraer can equip E-Jets with LiveTV satellite television and broadcast audio and video, Thales 14500 audio and video on demand and XM Radio satellite radio, with in-set power outlets. Claudio Camelier, Embraer airline market senior product strategy manager, said JetBlue had selected LiveTV and XM radio, while Virgin Blue had opted for LiveTV.

On the 100-seat E190, related avionics racks go in the aft section of the baggage hold, and the Thales system requires no under-seat space, said Camelier. The IFE rack occupies about 53 cu ft, while external satellite television antennas carry a fuel consumption penalty of about 0.3 percent.

Depending on configuration, "cost-effective" in-set video systems weigh 770 to 1,320 pounds, said Camelier. On the positive side, they reduce flight-attendant workload, require relatively little power, have proved reliable and easy to maintain (with 0.5 percent, or one in 200, seat problems per flight) and their flexible "architecture" allows upgrades or system expansion. Embraer normally provides IFE systems as buyer-furnished equipment.

Source: June 2007 issue of Aviation International News. Previously, we covered XM Satellite Radio on AirTran Airways.

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