Airbus Launches Quantum Optimization Partnership to Streamline Aerospace Logistics

Airbus Enters the Quantum Era to Rethink Aerospace Logistics

In early December 2017, Airbus announced a collaboration with Palo Alto–based quantum software startup QC Ware and France’s ONERA (Office National d'Études et de Recherches Aérospatiales) to co-develop quantum optimization algorithms aimed at improving logistics operations within the aerospace supply chain. The announcement, made during the Quantum Summit held in Toulouse, France, marked one of the first formalized efforts by an aerospace manufacturer to integrate quantum computing into its operations.

The partnership focuses primarily on tackling notoriously complex logistical problems—such as spare parts routing, aircraft assembly sequencing, and inventory forecasting—by leveraging the computational capabilities of quantum systems. Airbus aims to demonstrate clear advantages over traditional methods within five years.

Quantum and the Aerospace Supply Chain

Supply chain planning in aerospace involves multiple tiers of suppliers, intricate certification pathways, and stringent delivery schedules. Even minor inefficiencies in aircraft part delivery or assembly planning can cascade into delays costing millions. Airbus has long struggled with these kinds of challenges, especially in large-scale projects like the A350 and A380.

By collaborating with QC Ware, a company specializing in quantum algorithms that run on both classical and near-term quantum computers, Airbus hopes to shorten decision-making cycles and reduce excess inventory.

"Quantum optimization holds the promise to reshape our logistics forecasting, especially for nonlinear systems where conventional heuristics fall short," said David Tonnelier, Airbus's VP of Industrial Innovation.

What the Pilot Program Covers

The pilot project, funded partially by the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 initiative, includes three major logistics optimization testbeds:

1. Spare Parts Distribution – Developing a quantum-based routing system to minimize delivery times for spare parts across Airbus’s global network.

2. Assembly Scheduling – Sequencing the assembly of aircraft components to reduce bottlenecks using quantum annealing techniques.

3. Risk Forecasting – Using quantum machine learning to predict parts shortages or shipment delays based on historical supplier data.

These use cases represent some of the most computation-heavy problems in aerospace logistics and provide the perfect test bench for demonstrating quantum computing’s value proposition.

QC Ware: Bridging Quantum and Enterprise

QC Ware, founded in 2014, has established itself as one of the most enterprise-focused quantum software companies. In the Airbus partnership, QC Ware contributes hybrid quantum-classical algorithms that are hardware-agnostic and can run on simulators or NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) devices.

While the current phase focuses on simulations, QC Ware plans to port the solutions to actual quantum processors in collaboration with hardware partners like Rigetti and D-Wave.

France’s National Aerospace Lab: A Strategic Ally

ONERA’s involvement offers credibility and technical oversight. With experience in simulation-heavy aerospace modeling and logistics planning for national defense, ONERA brings decades of domain expertise.

"We are excited to support the integration of quantum innovation into mission-critical aerospace workflows," said Dr. Laure Veyrat, quantum applications director at ONERA.

European Union Support

The European Commission’s Horizon 2020 research program has committed over €1 million to support this initiative. The funding comes under the Quantum Flagship agenda, which aims to keep Europe competitive in next-gen computing.

This marks an important milestone for public-private partnerships in quantum R&D and signals Europe's commitment to becoming a leader in applied quantum technology.

Global Significance: Aviation and Quantum Crossroads

While the U.S. Department of Energy and companies like Lockheed Martin have led quantum R&D in defense applications, Airbus’s logistics-oriented pilot is among the first focused on commercial aerospace operations.

Other industry players have taken note. Boeing has reportedly begun early-stage conversations with quantum software providers, and Rolls-Royce has invested in quantum simulation for engine materials. But Airbus’s logistics-driven approach could pave the way for industry-wide adoption.

Implications for Future Supply Chains

Quantum optimization promises significant reductions in fuel usage, delay-related costs, and excess stockpiling. If Airbus’s pilot proves successful, other logistics-heavy industries—automotive, pharmaceuticals, and maritime shipping—could follow suit.

By starting with logistics and supply chain optimization, Airbus is taking a pragmatic route toward quantum adoption—one that offers clear business value before the era of fault-tolerant quantum computing fully arrives.

Conclusion

December 2017’s announcement by Airbus, QC Ware, and ONERA marks a significant step in the quantum-logistics convergence story. It signals the beginning of serious enterprise interest in quantum for real-world applications, well beyond academia and pure research. As Europe, the U.S., and Asia jockey for quantum leadership, Airbus’s early move could define the next era of aerospace efficiency.