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Green air cargo ops with quantum optimization

At Quantum-South, we solve complex optimization problems in cargo logistics leveraging quantum algorithms. One of the greatest challenges the industry faces is the transitioning to a zero-emission, zero-waste field.

Products

We offer our air cargo partners two optimization modules aimed at increasing operational efficiency and load factors. On the one hand, our Automatic Package Selection and Ordering product processes all AWBs available to be loaded on a single flight and allocates them on different ULDs/pallets ensuring optimality and compliance of various constraints: therefore, we maximize capacity utilization and thus we help our clients reduce waste (for example, in a PoC we managed to organize cargo from two flights into one!). On the other hand, our Automated ULD Selection and Ordering module chooses and organizes ULDs in a plane’s cargo decks maximizing different business metrics. Additionally, we offer a center of gravity optimization, so not only we reduce waste and maximize capacity, but also optimize fuel consumption.

R&D

As well, we are investing our efforts into solving the most challenging problems with tomorrow’s computational capabilities. Our R&D team has two main working lines related to sustainable practices and operational efficiency. Firstly, we have approached the multi-airplane routing problem, meaning, organizing paths from several flights in order to minimize climatic impact – a problem first posed in a Deloitte challenge where we got honourable mentions. Our approach consists of combining QUBO, quantum walks and a discretization of the air space. Secondly, we have made great progress creating an algorithm for aircraft climb optimization. Using real flight data with aeronautical and computational expertise, we have a solid, consolidated R&D project with promising applications. We will be publishing papers on both of our developments, so stay tuned for more on this!

Our plan ahead

Our business development team is constantly searching and evaluating potential use cases. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize the air cargo industry, enabling us to solve complex optimization problems that were previously intractable. By leveraging the power of the algorithms of the future, we can help the industry reduce waste, optimize fuel consumption, and transition to more sustainable operations.

We are committed to working with our partners to develop and deploy quantum optimization solutions that make a real difference. We invite you to join us on this journey to a greener air cargo industry!