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US firm Advanced Electronic Systems (AES) has sealed contracts with two Asian airlines totalling roughly $7.4 million for its EmPower line of in-seat power outlets.

The contracts include power control systems, in-seat power converters, cables, and ancillary equipment to allow passengers to charge their personal electronic devices and laptop computers.

The Astronics subsidiary did not identify the carriers but says the system will be installed on both retrofit and new wide-body Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

Deliveries began this year and are expected to continue through mid-2011.

The company says its systems, which can also be used to power in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems, have been sold to more than 125 commercial transport and business jet customers.

Future deals are likely as competition among airlines intensifies, AES executive vice president Mark Peabody says in a statement.

More operators are providing in-seat power outlets as they equip aircraft with in-flight Wi-Fi. Usage of in-seat power outlets also coincides with the proliferation of electronic devices brought on board by passengers.