Technology & Innovation
PsiQuantum and Airbus Partner on Quantum Computing for Aerospace CFD
PsiQuantum and Airbus collaborate on QuLAB to develop quantum algorithms improving Computational Fluid Dynamics for aerospace design and sustainability.
This article is based on an official press release from PsiQuantum and Airbus.
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.
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.”
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.”
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.
What is the “QuLAB”? What is the specific technical focus of this partnership? Why is this important for the aviation industry?
PsiQuantum and Airbus Launch “QuLAB” to Revolutionize Aerospace Design
Solving the Turbulence Challenge with Quantum Algorithms
Strategic Context: The Race for Fault Tolerance
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
QuLAB is the project name for the collaboration between PsiQuantum and Airbus, located at Airbus facilities, focused on developing quantum algorithms for aerospace applications.
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.
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.
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Photo Credit: PsiQuantum