Thales Vies for Larger Share of Cabin Avionics Market

French avionics maker Thales last month signed a memorandum of understanding with Little Rock, Ark.-based Audio International in a deal that will see the companies develop a complete cabin-management system for business aviation, including in-flight entertainment, cabin communications and environmental controls. Jean-Pierre Morteux, president and CEO of Thales North America, said the new integrated system would provide digital multimedia passenger communications inside and outside the cabin, and a portfolio of in-flight entertainment options that will include live satellite TV, moving maps and games, as well as management of cabin temperature, lighting and seats. The agreement marks the start of what could be a larger presence for Thales in the lucrative business aviation cabin avionics market.