This week at NBAA 2017, Mecaer Aviation Group (MAG, Booth N2121) unveiled its third-generation I-Feel (In-Flight Entertainment Enhanced Lounge) infotainment system, now available for fixed-wing applications. Originally created more than a decade ago for rotorcraft OEMs and VIP aftermarket installations, the latest version brings wireless controls to the business jet cabin. Hundreds of helicopters are currently outfitted with I-Feel.

“The next generation I-Feel takes everything we have learned over the years, industry feedback and new technology available, and wraps it into one functional system,” said Armondo Sassoli, MAG’s co-general manager. “Fixed-wing owners, operators and OEMs will be very impressed with its customizable software, lightweight hardware and dependability.”

In addition to enhanced functionalities, the third-generation system provides a 20 percent weight savings over the previous system hardware. The wireless system enables users to customize all facets of appearance, style, graphic schemes and user simplicity and/or complexity.

It manages passenger/crew communications, entertainment functions, windows (electro-chromatic or shade), lighting, moving map options, and feeds from internal or external onboard cameras. MAG is providing demos of the new I-Feel this week at NBAA 2017, showcasing its features and multiple user interfaces, along with a brief overview of electro-chromatic technology for passenger windows.

The Italian company has facilities across its home country, as well as in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to cabin comfort systems for rotorcraft and fixed-wing business and general aviation aircraft, MAG offers integrated systems including flight controls, landing gear and actuation systems.