French aircraft manufacturer Airbus is actively developing and testing advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and quantum sensing, to address the complexities of increasingly crowded skies and airports. The company's Optimate demonstrator project focuses on enhancing aircraft safety and operational efficiency.
At VivaTech in Paris, Jonathan Rigaud, head of the Optimate project, explained that the initiative aims to protect aircraft routes, optimize flight operations, and assist pilots in challenging visibility conditions such as heavy rain or fog. Airbus is integrating tools like radar, LiDAR, cameras, and computer vision, with AI playing a key role in identifying potential obstacles and risks.
A significant focus is on improving the taxiing process, where aircraft currently spend considerable time on the ground. By enabling more efficient information sharing between aircraft, airlines, and air traffic control, Airbus seeks to optimize taxi routes, reduce unnecessary fuel burn, and lower emissions. Some technologies have been tested using an "aircraft on wheels" demonstrator, accumulating over 400 hours of trials at airports like Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Furthermore, Airbus is exploring navigation systems that are less dependent on GPS, a vulnerability highlighted by recent geopolitical tensions. Quantum sensing, which uses quantum physics for precise movement measurement, and sensor fusion, which combines data from multiple sources, are being investigated as robust alternatives. Rigaud emphasized that while automation will provide pilots with better information, human pilots will continue to make the ultimate decisions.
