Objective
Quantum computing has emerged as a disruptive paradigm with transformative potential for Air Traffic Management (ATM), where safe separation of aircraft, fuel efficiency, and real-time adaptability present highly complex, NP-hard optimisation challenges. Even a small number of aircraft can generate vast decision spaces that are unsolvable in polynomial time. Building on the SESAR JU–funded ARTIMATION project, which applied explainable AI and genetic algorithms for pairwise conflict resolution, this study explores the role of quantum computing in enabling scalable, real-time trajectory optimisation. The NEXT-QCM framework integrates quantum optimisation and Quantum Machine Learning (QML) to evaluate exponentially large sets of routing alternatives in parallel, offering conflict-free, fuel-efficient, and sustainable solutions. Four core innovations underpin the approach:
(1) global optimisation across entire sectors or networks, balancing safety, efficiency, and environmental impact;
(2) real-time adaptability, using quantum simulators such as ColibrITD’s MPQP to reconfigure trajectories as new data arrive;
(3) quantum-enhanced optimisation via QML to accelerate model learning and improve computational efficiency; and
(4) explainable QML (XQML) to enhance interpretability and build controller trust.
By leveraging advanced encoding, noise mitigation, and error-correction techniques, NEXT-QCM aims to deliver a proof-of-concept system validated through realistic field cases. This exploratory research demonstrates how quantum computing can move ATM from sequential, rule-based conflict resolution toward massively parallel, bias-aware, and sustainable airspace management.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering vehicle engineering aerospace engineering aircraft
- engineering and technology electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering electronic engineering computer hardware quantum computers
- social sciences social geography transport transport planning air traffic management
- natural sciences computer and information sciences artificial intelligence machine learning
You need to log in or register to use this function
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
-
HORIZON.2.5 - Climate, Energy and Mobility
MAIN PROGRAMME
See all projects funded under this programme
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-JU-RIA - HORIZON JU Research and Innovation Actions
See all projects funded under this funding scheme
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-SESAR-2025-DES-ER-03
See all projects funded under this callCoordinator
Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
722 20 VASTERAAS
Sweden
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.