Astronics AES' new wireless charging module adopted for integration by aircraft seat manufacturers

Astronics Corporation, a leading provider of advanced technologies for the global aerospace, defense and semiconductor industries, announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems (AES), is providing its new wireless charging module (WCM) for integration into several suppliers' seat models. The first integrations are scheduled to roll out on aircraft in early 2019.

Astronics AES' new wireless charging module, introduced last April at the Aircraft Interiors Expo, has rapidly gained widespread recognition as a new, highly desirable option for charging passengers' electronic devices (PEDs). Airlines are anticipating the passenger demand for wireless charging and in response, seat manufacturers are integrating this unit into their seats and furniture to provide quick charging of Qi-enabled wireless devices such as mobile phones and tablets.

Mark Peabody, President of Astronics AES, commented, "Astronics AES envisioned the wireless charging module to augment existing EmPower products offered today. This is becoming a reality as it provides airlines another way to give passengers all the comforts of the home or office right at the airline seat. The wireless charger can be integrated with existing EmPower® products offered from Astronics or from IFE suppliers using Astronics power supplies in their IFE offering."

EmPower in-seat power is already the industry's most adopted PED charging option with more than 240 airlines providing EmPower systems. The new wireless charging module represents an easy way to provide the convenience of wireless charging while creating a superior passenger experience, maintenance, and support model for WCM installations.

The 15 watt charger is Qi ("chee") certified and is compatible with the most popular mobile devices offered from Apple, Samsung and others that are Qi-enabled.

Astronics AES is also working with additional seat suppliers to outfit wireless charging programs that will occur later in 2019 and beyond.

For more than 20 years, Astronics AES has developed and delivered intelligent power management systems to the world's aerospace industry. With more than one million outlet units delivered, the patented EmPower® in-seat power system is currently in service with over 240 airlines.