IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a pioneer in quantum computing, and Airbus have joined forces to investigate the potential uses and advantages of quantum computing for aviation services and passenger experiences.
Their 12-month ‘Quantum Aircraft Loading Optimization & Quantum Machine Learning’ project would result in the creation of a prototype aircraft-loading quantum application, practical collaboration and coaching sessions for Airbus developers and engineers, and an investigation of potential quantum computer integrations for Airbus and its clients in the future.
“Optimization is critical to achieving aviation sustainability targets,” said Amanda Simpson, Vice President Research and Technology, Airbus Americas. “We are very excited to explore IonQ’s capabilities to utilize the potential of quantum computing to achieve these targets.”
Better Cargo Allocation on Flights
Aerospace firms are investing in the newest technology to identify opportunities for increased efficiency, cargo loading being one of them, in response to the current supply chain issue.
The agreement between Airbus and IonQ is the first step toward creating more intelligent algorithms based on quantum computers, which might eventually result in cost savings owing to better cargo allocation on flights. Long-term, Airbus wants to apply quantum algorithms to enhance other aspects of flying, such as decreased fuel use, improved aerodynamics, and optimal trajectories.
“As the aerospace industry looks for new ways to navigate the continued impact of the pandemic and overcome supply chain hurdles, we’re pleased to collaborate with Airbus and provide them with the quantum tools and expertise to develop improved aircraft-loading capabilities,” said Peter Chapman, CEO and President at IonQ. “While it’s still early days in our yearlong project, the potential for quantum to reshape how airplane manufacturers balance passenger experience with aircraft production and performance is what excites our team most for what’s next in the aviation industry.”
Following IonQ’s recent news that it has set up its first foreign entities in the EU and EMEA, this partnership with Airbus would open the door for future quantum undertakings with several European businesses, states, and governments.
IonQ and Hyundai Motors teamed together earlier this year to create improved EV batteries and lay the groundwork for object identification in next cars. Additionally, IonQ recently revealed that its IonQ Aria system is now publicly accessible on Microsoft Azure Quantum, giving developers, academics, engineers, and business titans access to its quantum computing offerings through the cloud.
