This article is based on an official press release from PsiQuantum and Airbus.

PsiQuantum and Airbus Launch “QuLAB” to Revolutionize Aerospace Design

On January 13, 2026, PsiQuantum and Airbus announced a strategic collaboration aimed at integrating fault-tolerant quantum computing into the aerospace sector. The partnership, centered around a joint initiative called “QuLAB” located at Airbus, focuses on developing advanced quantum algorithms to solve complex challenges in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

According to the joint announcement, the collaboration seeks to move beyond theoretical exploration and toward the development of practical, utility-scale applications. The companies aim to address aerodynamic problems that are currently intractable or highly inefficient for classical supercomputers, potentially accelerating the design of sustainable aircraft.

Solving the Turbulence Challenge with Quantum Algorithms

The core technical focus of the QuLAB project is the optimization of aircraft aerodynamics through improved simulation capabilities. Traditional CFD simulations often struggle with the immense computational power required to model turbulence and airflow over complex geometries, such as landing gear or wing flaps.

To address this, PsiQuantum and Airbus have developed a Quantum Lattice Boltzmann Algorithm (QLB). Unlike traditional methods that solve Navier-Stokes equations directly, the Lattice Boltzmann method simulates fluids as fictitious particles on a grid. The partners report that the quantum version of this algorithm leverages superposition to handle particle interactions more efficiently.

The collaboration has already produced a technical paper titled “Simulating Non-Trivial Incompressible Flows With a Quantum Lattice Boltzmann Algorithm,” the findings of which were presented at the AIAA SciTech 2026 Forum in Orlando, Florida. The research demonstrates how fault-tolerant quantum computers could offer exponential speedups in modeling these complex fluid flows.

In a statement regarding the partnership, Alexander Kolks, Chief Business Officer at PsiQuantum, emphasized the transformative nature of this technology:

“Our partnership with Airbus underscores quantum computing’s game-changing potential for the aerospace industry, and our shared commitment to collaborate at the leading edge. As PsiQuantum prepares to build and deploy the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computers, we are working closely with world-leading companies to ensure they are prepared to take full advantage of this technology.”

Strategic Context: The Race for Fault Tolerance

This collaboration highlights a distinct shift in the quantum computing landscape from “Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum” (NISQ) experiments to preparation for fault-tolerant hardware. PsiQuantum, which utilizes a photonic (light-based) approach to qubit generation, argues that error correction is essential for achieving industrial breakthroughs. By leveraging standard semiconductor manufacturing, the company aims to scale up to the millions of qubits necessary for fault tolerance.

For Airbus, this partnerships is part of a broader strategy to decarbonize aviation. More accurate aerodynamic simulations can lead to lighter, more fuel-efficient aircraft designs, directly contributing to sustainability goals. This announcement follows Airbus’s previous engagements in the quantum space, including its “Quantum Mobility Quest.”

AirPro News Analysis

We observe a growing trend of “quantum readiness” among major industrial players. This announcement comes just months after PsiQuantum formed a similar strategic partnership with Lockheed Martin in November 2025. The pattern suggests that aerospace leaders are no longer waiting for utility-scale hardware to be fully operational before investing in software development.

By developing algorithms like the QLB now, companies like Airbus are positioning themselves to deploy quantum solutions immediately once the hardware capabilities catch up. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of a “software bottleneck” when fault-tolerant machines eventually come online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “QuLAB”?
QuLAB is the project name for the collaboration between PsiQuantum and Airbus, located at Airbus facilities, focused on developing quantum algorithms for aerospace applications.

What is the specific technical focus of this partnership?
The primary focus is Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), specifically using a Quantum Lattice Boltzmann Algorithm (QLB) to simulate complex airflow and turbulence more efficiently than classical computers.

Why is this important for the aviation industry?
Improved simulations can reduce the reliance on expensive wind tunnel testing and lead to more aerodynamic, fuel-efficient aircraft designs, aiding the industry’s decarbonization efforts.

Sources

• Business Wire: PsiQuantum Collaborating with Airbus
• PsiQuantum Official Site

This article is based on an official press release from JetZero.

JetZero Secures $175 Million Series B to Propel Blended Wing Body Aircraft

On January 13, 2026, JetZero, the California-based aerospace company developing the “Blended Wing Body” (BWB) airframe, announced the successful closing of a $175 million Series B financing round. According to the company’s official statement, the funding will accelerate the development of its full-scale demonstrator aircraft, which is currently scheduled for its maiden flight in 2027.

The investment round was led by B Capital, a global multi-stage investment firm, and included participation from several high-profile strategic partners in the aviation and defense sectors. This latest injection of capital brings JetZero’s total funding, including private capital, government grants, and commercial commitments, to over $1 billion, signaling strong industry confidence in the potential for a radical shift in aircraft design.

Strategic Investment and Industry Backing

The Series B round drew support from major industry players, underscoring the dual commercial and military applications of JetZero’s technology. Alongside B Capital, the round saw renewed or new commitments from:

• United Airlines Ventures: Reaffirming its support following an initial investment in 2023.
• Northrop Grumman: A key manufacturing partner assisting with the demonstrator’s composite airframe.
• RTX Ventures: The venture arm of RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies), the parent company of engine supplier Pratt & Whitney.
• 3M Ventures: Focusing on manufacturing innovation and advanced materials.

In the press release, JetZero leadership emphasized that this diverse investor base reflects the broader industry’s readiness to move beyond traditional aircraft architectures.

“The strength and diversity of our investor base reflects the momentum behind JetZero and the industry’s readiness to reshape the future of aviation. This round brings together key strategic partners across the value chain… to deliver an efficient aircraft that elevates the passenger experience.”

Tom O’Leary, Co-founder and CEO of JetZero

The Blended Wing Body Advantage

JetZero’s primary innovation is the Blended Wing Body (BWB) design. Unlike the “tube-and-wing” shape that has dominated commercial aviation for over 60 years, the BWB integrates the fuselage and wing into a single aerodynamic structure. According to JetZero, this design eliminates the need for a tail and allows the entire aircraft to generate lift.

The company claims this architecture will deliver a 50% reduction in fuel burn and carbon emissions compared to traditional aircraft of similar size. Additionally, the design mounts engines on top of the fuselage, which is expected to significantly reduce noise pollution on the ground.

Development Timeline

The capital raised will primarily fund the construction and flight testing of the full-scale demonstrator. This prototype is also supported by a $235 million U.S. Air Force contract awarded in 2023. JetZero has stated that the demonstrator is on track to fly in the first quarter of 2027. Following the demonstrator phase, the company aims to certify a commercial passenger liner, the Z4, which targets the middle-of-the-market segment with a capacity of over 250 passengers.

“As aviation faces rising emissions and fuel costs, the need for a step change in efficiency has never been greater. JetZero is positioned to reshape the industry.”

Jeff Johnson, General Partner at B Capital

AirPro News Analysis

While the funding milestone is significant, the path to commercial entry remains steep. The aviation industry is under immense pressure to decarbonize by 2050, and with hydrogen and electric propulsion technologies still facing significant hurdles for large aircraft, aerodynamic efficiency offers the most immediate solution. However, certifying a completely new airframe architecture is a rigorous process.

JetZero’s target for commercial entry by 2030 is viewed by some industry observers as ambitious. The “tube-and-wing” design is a known quantity for regulators; a BWB introduces new variables regarding emergency evacuation, cabin pressurization, and airport compatibility. However, the backing of heavyweights like Northrop Grumman and United Airlines suggests that the industry views these risks as manageable in exchange for the promised 50% efficiency leap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the main investors in JetZero?

The Series B round was led by B Capital. Strategic investors include United Airlines Ventures, Northrop Grumman, RTX Ventures, and 3M Ventures. Alaska Airlines also invested in 2024 via Alaska Star Ventures.

When will the JetZero aircraft fly?

The full-scale demonstrator aircraft is scheduled for its maiden flight in the first quarter of 2027. Commercial entry is targeted for 2030.

What is the main advantage of the Blended Wing Body?

The design allows the entire fuselage to generate lift, significantly reducing drag. This results in up to 50% lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional aircraft.

Sources

PR Newswire

This article is based on an official press release from the University of Central Florida.

UCF Secures NASA Grant to Study Advanced Air Mobility Impacts at Ocala Airport

Researchers at the University of Central Florida (UCF) have been awarded a $750,000 grant from NASA to investigate the environmental and societal impacts of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). According to an official announcement released by the university in January 2026, the project will focus on the integration of next-generation air transportation systems, such as electric air taxis and drones, into existing community infrastructures.

The study is being conducted in partnership with Ocala International Airport, which will serve as the primary testing and data collection site. The research aims to analyze how noise and pollution from these emerging technologies affect local residents, ensuring that future implementation addresses community concerns regarding quality of life.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Aviation Research

The initiative combines aerospace engineering with sociological research to create a comprehensive picture of AAM integration. Leading the engineering side are Subith Vasu, a UCF Trustee Chair and Professor, and Justin Urso, a postdoctoral scholar. Their team is tasked with measuring and modeling the acoustic footprint and potential pollution generated by AAM vehicles.

To address the human element, Yingru Li, a UCF Professor of Sociology, will lead community assessments. According to the university’s release, this portion of the study is designed to gauge public perception and acceptance of high-frequency low-altitude flights over residential neighborhoods.

“Anything that flies makes noise, and it can be annoying for residents. We’re looking at how to minimize the risk so the community isn’t bothered.”

Subith Vasu, UCF Trustee Chair (via UCF News)

AirPro News Analysis

The inclusion of a sociological component in this NASA-funded study highlights a critical shift in the aviation industry’s approach to AAM. While early development focused heavily on vehicle certification and battery density, the current hurdle for the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) sector is public acceptance. We observe that regulatory bodies are increasingly prioritizing “community annoyance” metrics over simple decibel limits, making data from studies like UCF’s vital for future urban planning.

Strategic Importance of Ocala International Airport

The selection of Ocala International Airport as the testbed for this research is strategic. Located approximately two hours by car from major hubs like Tampa and Orlando, Ocala represents the type of regional city that stands to benefit most from short-haul air mobility solutions. The research team estimates that Ocala could host a functional “vertiport”, a launch pad for AAM vehicles, by 2035.

In the university’s announcement, Vasu noted the logistical challenges residents currently face when trying to access major international airports.

“Depending on where you live, AAM can be very helpful. If you live in Ocala and want to take a flight to Europe, California or New York, where do you go? The Tampa and Orlando airports are two hours away by car.”

Subith Vasu, UCF Trustee Chair (via UCF News)

Future Expansion Plans

While the current scope of the $750,000 grant focuses on Ocala, the research team has expressed intentions to expand the project to include Orlando International Airport in future phases. The data collected will likely inform NASA’s broader strategies for AAM implementation and assist city planners in designing infrastructure that is both operationally efficient and socially acceptable.

Sources

• University of Central Florida