Spirit Drops Needle on Bongiovi Bizav Retrofits

Spirit Aeronautics has completed the first aftermarket retrofit of a Bongiovi speakerless audio system on a business aircraft. Installed in a Dassault Falcon 7X at Spirit’s Columbus, Ohio facility, the audio system incorporates vibrating transducers fitted to the back of interior panels that generate sounds waves, turning the entire cabin into a speaker and creating an immersive, high-fidelity audio experience, according to Bongiovi.

The technology was developed by Bongiovi Acoustic Labs, founded by record producer Tony Bongiovi, who began developing onboard hi-fi audio in the 1980s, seeking an improved listening experience as a Twin Comanche owner and pilot.

“This cabin entertainment system surpasses any business-class aircraft cabin system flying today for ease of use, while it provides audiophile-level sound quality of the highest order,” said Spirit CEO Rick Ochs. Besides improved audio quality, the Bongiovi system eliminates the space required for speakers and the need to accommodate their grilles within interior designs.

In conjunction with the audio upgrade, the Falcon 7X was outfitted with a new IFE system, satcom and window shade systems, Wi-Fi router, and video monitors.