Finnair Goes Online with CSAT

Czech Airlines Technics (CSAT) has completed a cabin modification project to upgrade the interiors of Finnair’s narrow-body Airbus fleet. The two-year programme saw the Czech MRO provider roll out Wi-Fi across 24 of the airline’s aircraft.

Alongside connectivity enhancements, the aircraft underwent a modification called Spaceflex that comprised reconstruction of the cabin, including an increase in the number of seats and the replacement of galleys and lavatories. The work took place at the MRO provider’s facility at Václav Havel Airport Prague.

CSAT workers reinforced the fuselage to install a satellite antenna and its cover on top of each aircraft. Cables were then distributed across the cabin to several Wi-Fi access points for passengers to connect to the internet.

Juha Ojala, Finnair’s vice president of technical services, said: “This project increased the seating capacity of our Airbus narrowbody aircraft, and brought best-in-market internet connectivity to our customers, thus supporting both our growth and customer experience targets. A tight collaboration between the CSAT, Airbus and Finnair teams was crucial for the project’s success.”

Pavel Haleš, chairman of the Czech Airlines Technics board of directors, echoed Ojala’s remarks: “Since it was a prototype installation and modification, we worked very closely with Airbus and Finnair for several months before starting the job, and the support and collaboration by the Finnair project team was invaluable.” (Photo CSAT)