China's FTS enters global seatback IFE market with 4K wireless solution

FTS has now re-entered the international market with new products, including a 4K wireless IFE solution named XSTREAM IFE. This was showcased at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg.

“We’re really happy to finally come back to the international market again,” Zhang told Runway Girl Network at the show.

“This is the first time we showcase these two new product lines,” she added regarding the new wireless IFE system with in-seat displays and the cargo surveillance system.

The company offers thin displays sized 11”, 13” and 15” for airlines preferring an in-seat experience over streaming to passengers’ own devices. Both options are available from FTS, including BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). A head-end server and cabin WAPs support this streaming solution.

While manufactured in China, FTS believes XSTREAM IFE will attract business outside of China as well, particularly among airlines not yet ready to offer broadband inflight connectivity.

When asked if FTS aims to become a seatback IFE provider outside of China, Zhang confirmed: “We think this could be an opportunity for us out of China.”

In-seat IFE market competitors include Panasonic Avionics, Safran Passenger Innovations, Thales, AERQ and Delta Flight Products—the latter known for installing wireless seatback IFE on some aircraft.

FTS’s XSTREAM series also extends to smart surveillance solutions.

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