Qatar Airways is opening a new technology research, development and training centre at the Qatar Science and Technology Park that will be dedicated to the development of inflight entertainment solutions.

Thales QSTP-LLC, established by Qatar Airways and Thales, will seek to develop inflight entertainment solutions for Qatar Airways in its hub.

Thales, which already has an office in Qatar, has been creating new generation IFE solutions since 2009 for Qatar Airways’ narrow body fleet of Airbus A320s. The systems include touch-screen technology, with seat-back screens in Economy and arm rest screens in Business Class.

The French company will also provide revolutionary new in-flight entertainment and communication systems for the airline’s Boeing 787 aircraft, of which the first of 60 on order is scheduled for delivery this summer. Qatar Airways is the Middle East launch customer of the Boeing 787.

Addressing guests at the official opening of the new Thales Centre today, Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said that the airline was at the forefront of developing pioneering products for its passengers and that in-flight entertainment was no exception.

“The new centre will ensure that the development and implementation needs of Qatar Airways will be met quicker with improved timelines for content updates on our aircraft.” He said

“IFE today plays a crucial role in a passenger’s decision making process when choosing which airline to fly with. 15 years ago IFE played a very small part of an airline’s product offering.
He added: “Qatar Airways has understood the importance of entertainment, hence our inflight offerings have tripled from over 300 interactive audio and video options seven years ago to more than 1,000 today.”

Thales In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity Systems CEO, Alan Pellegrini said: “This grand opening in Doha symbolises our deep commitment to Qatar Airways and I am confident that the collective experience and talent of our organisations will play a significant part in the future of onboard systems and services.”