Lufthansa Technik’s Original Equipment & Special Aircraft Services segment has adapted its nice (networked integrated cabin equipment) for Pilatus Aircraft’s Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet.
In the PC-24, the system is called ‘integrated CMS 4.0’ (iCMS 4.0) and features a 10in touch screen controller with 3D moving map, USB ports, media storage server and four high-fidelity cabin speakers with optional sub-woofer, HDMI input and mood lighting.
The company said that in the past, such systems have only been installed in mid-size and large business jets – mainly due to their number of components, weight, performance and associated costs.
For its new partner Pilatus, Lufthansa Technik is therefore introducing an Ethernet-based version of nice in which the entire system is housed as a line-replaceable unit in a compact enclosure.
“Pilatus is proud to introduce the iCMS 4.0 inflight entertainment system in collaboration with Lufthansa Technik,” said Ignaz Gretener, VP of Pilatus’ Business Aviation unit. “Our modified system, more compact and efficient than ever before, features a fully customised interface tailored to Pilatus’ discerning customers. This innovation not only enhances the onboard experience but also reflects our commitment to pushing the boundaries of aviation technology.”
The passenger interface is provided by the touch-sensitive surface already known from existing nice systems. This allows passengers to manage comfort functions as well as audio and video content, either via the built-in 10in touchscreen or from their PEDs.
In addition, the new system provides a fully digital platform that allows the crew to personalise the cabin for passengers in advance of each flight.
The nice-based iCMS 4.0 features wi-fi 802.11N/AC/AX capable of simultaneous 2.4GHz and 5GHz; Bluetooth transceiver for audio sink or source; multicast streaming; a six-channel digital amplifier, which can include optional subwoofer; controls via Ethernet, ARINC 429, RS485/422/232, discrete and relays; 1 terabyte of storage space for personal AVOD; the niceview mobile moving map; and nice wireless app control.
“We are honoured to be part of this remarkable aircraft and to offer Pilatus service enhancements that will elevate the PC-24 passenger experience to an even higher level,” said Andrew Muirhead, VP of OEM and engineering services and head of the Original Equipment & Special Aircraft Services segment at Lufthansa Technik.
Muirhead added, “We are proud of our technical achievements in integrating so much functionality into such a compact unit – once again a demonstration of the innovative power of our team. Together with our valued new partner Pilatus, we are now making the PC-24 Super Versatile Jet even more versatile.”
