The aviation industry is the scene of several fascinating developments in digital technology with that promise to help transform aspects of the aviation industry. The Hamburg-based DLR Quantum Computing Initiative (QCI) and Hamburg Aviation member Lufthansa Industry Solutions have announced a new collaboration that also involves the DLR Insititute for Air Transport, which is also based in Hamburg. The new partnership aims to leverage quantum computing to enhance the strategic and tactical planning processes of airlines, focusing on optimizing flight routes.
DLR Quantum Computing Initiative
The DLR Quantum Computing Initiative, based in Hamburg, is at the forefront of integrating quantum computing into various mobility applications. This initiative brings together research, industry, and startups to develop quantum computers, necessary technologies, and relevant use cases. The DLR QCI provides high-tech facilities at its innovation centers in Hamburg and Ulm, fostering collaboration and technology transfer.
Collaboration with Lufthansa Industry Solutions
In a significant move, the DLR QCI has awarded a contract to Lufthansa Industry Solutions as part of the QCMobility project. This project explores how quantum computers can support airlines in their planning processes. The collaboration includes the DLR Institutes for Air Transort and Quantum Technologies, Deutsche Lufthansa, Eurowings, and Kipu Quantum. The primary goal is to develop quantum algorithms that can solve complex planning problems more efficiently, reducing CO₂ emissions and optimizing resource utilization.
Strategic and Tactical Planning
Dr. Thorsten Ehlers from the DLR Institute for Air Transport highlights the potential of quantum computing to solve challenging computational problems quickly and accurately. “‘We hope to be able to solve particularly difficult computational problems faster and more precisely with quantum computers. More efficient planning will not only reduce CO₂ emissions in air traffic, but also make better use of resources and reduce costs. This is an important step towards climate-friendly aviation,’ says Dr Thorsten Ehlers from the DLR Institute of Air Transport.
Real-World Applications
The project focuses on real-world applications such as optimizing flight routes and managing operational challenges like airspace restrictions and crew availability. By implementing quantum algorithms on quantum computing hardware at DLR’s innovation centers, the project aims to demonstrate the advantages of quantum computing over classical algorithms in these scenarios.
As members of Hamburg Aviation, both the DLR Institute for Air Transport and Lufthansa Industry Solutions are laying groundwork for technological advances for the region’s aviation industry. This collaboration marks a significant step towards a future where quantum computing can revolutionize aspects of aviation, contributing to efficiency and reducing the industry’s environmental impact.