![[Translate to Englisch:] Quantencomputing](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/5/csm_DGLR-tabelle__2__15a492b1ed.png)
By Dr. Joseph Doetsch, Lufthansa Industry Solutions
Around a hundred years ago, quantum physics fundamentally changed our understanding of the world. It showed that nature in the microcosm functions according to completely different rules than the classical world view of physics had previously assumed. Electrons are not just tiny particles, but also exhibit wave-like properties. A particle can be in several places at once or only assume states when measured.
These insights seemed paradoxical at the time, but they laid the foundation for technologies that shape our everyday lives today. Without quantum physics, there would be no transistors, which form the basis of today's computer chips, and no lasers, which have become indispensable in communications, medicine, and materials processing.
What exactly is quantum computing? Why is it relevant to aviation? And how is the Lufthansa Group involved in this future-oriented topic?
Quantum computers: More than just faster computing
Quantum computing is now opening up a new chapter: Computers no longer work with conventional bits, which only represent 0 and 1, but with so-called qubits. These have the remarkable ability to exist simultaneously in a superposition of 0 and 1 – similar to a spinning coin that represents a combination of heads and tails. Qubits can also be entangled. This means that two qubits are connected in such a way that the state of one determines the state of the other, even if they are far apart.
This opens up completely new possibilities that go beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Compared to classical computers, quantum computing promises exponentially greater computing power. With just a few qubits, a quantum computer can represent many possible states simultaneously and thus solve complex tasks much faster and more efficiently than classical systems. Its strengths lie particularly in optimization problems, where countless possible solutions have to be considered.
Quantum Computer | Classical Computer: |
| Calculates using Qubits, that can use a superposition of 0 and 1 | Calculates with transistors that can represent either 0 or 1 |
| The performance increases exponentially with the number of qubits | The power increases in a ratio of 1:1 with the number of transistors |
| Quantum computers currently still have high error rates and usually have to be kept extremely cold | Classic computers have low error rates and can be operated at room temperature |
| Well suited for tasks such as optimisation problems and quantum simulations | Most everyday processes are best handled with classic computers |
The big difference in speed between classical computers and quantum computing results from the different structure of the processes.
Why is this relevant for aviation?
Aviation is an industry full of complex and dynamic systems. From flight planning and passenger flow to ground logistics, there are numerous challenges where even the smallest optimizations can have an impact on efficiency, costs, and the environment.
Two examples from flight operations:
- Gate Assignment – das Gate-Puzzle
Gate assignment – the gate puzzle
Planning which aircraft parks at which gate is a logistical masterpiece. A calculation illustrates the dimensions: with five possible gates and one aircraft, there are only five possible assignments. In this case, flight control has an easy job. With five gates and two aircraft, there are already 25 possible combinations. However, airports are usually larger than this. With 15 gates and ten aircraft, there are already over 570 billion possibilities. Quantum algorithms could help find the best solution in a matter of seconds – more flexibly and robustly in the face of unexpected events than today's systems
- Flight route planning – the race for the best route
Aircraft should reach their destinations safely, quickly, fuel-efficiently, and as environmentally friendly as possible. However, the optimal flight path depends on many factors, including weather, air traffic, geopolitical restrictions, altitude profiles, and wind currents. Quantum computing promises to respond to this complexity not only faster but also more flexibly, for example in the event of short-term rescheduling.
Quantum computing as a key technology for more sustainable and efficient aviation
Thanks to their ability to analyze large amounts of data and complex systems simultaneously, quantum algorithms can help to use resources more efficiently, reduce emissions, and make operations more reliable at the same time.
Although quantum computers are not yet ready for widespread use, numerous research projects and pilot studies are underway worldwide. Here, possible applications are being tested, often in hybrid systems in which classical computers work together with quantum processors to solve sub-problems. Such projects are also being carried out and evaluated within the Lufthansa Group. For example, the quantum team at Lufthansa Industry Solutions is working on two research projects to optimize flight route planning and other topics. The focus is on understanding the potential, testing the technology at an early stage, and identifying areas of application for the coming years.
Fully powerful quantum computers are still under development. However, progress is rapid. Quantum computing could become the key to smarter, more sustainable, and more robust aviation in the coming years.
More information
For more about quantum computing technology and its importance for our member Lufthansa industry Solutions, click hier.