Optimizing Flight Routes for Better Fuel Efficiency and Optimal Path using Grover's Algorithm & QAOA Algorithm - Quantum Computing

• Published in: 2024 International Conference on System, Computation, Automation and Networking (ICSCAN) pp. 1 - 4
• Main Authors: Khan, M. Imran, Govindharaj, I., Sathishkumar, R., Jenifer, D., Maeghasree, T., Yohini, K.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 27.12.2024
• Subjects: Approximation algorithms; Aviation Industry; Flight Route Optimization; Fuel Efficiency; Fuels; Green products; Grover's Algorithm; Heuristic algorithms; Job shop scheduling; Meteorology; Optimization; Proposals; Quantum algorithm; Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA); Quantum Computing; Real-Time Data Integration; Real-time systems
• DOI: 10.1109/ICSCAN62807.2024.10894075

Optimization of flight routes is one of the hard problems in the aviation sector. This paper focuses on the prospects of quantum computing developed using Grover's Algorithm and the Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA). Grover's Algorithm provides a quadratic speedup for searching an unsorted database and is therefore quite useful for identifying optimum flight routes amongst millions of choices. Preliminary benchmarking suggests that it can efficiently search a space of more than one million routes in far less time than the conventional approach, which is important for timely decisions over aviation. Simultaneously, QAOA refines candidate routes with the aid of real-time inputs such as weather and air traffic, and each time delivers near-optimal solutions even during sudden changes. The quantum framework in development would make it possible to improve the accuracy of routes recommended and respond fast to changing circumstances. This includes weather conditions whereby, based on research, estimated savings in fuel by optimizing routes run between 5% to 10%, which translates to costs lower with fewer carbon emissions playing a role in environmental sustainability. Flight scheduling also improves through quantum algorithms because of increased operational efficiency, which would enable airlines to cope better with complicated constraints and not allow delays when flights are involved. In summary, the Grover's Algorithm and QAOA hybrid shows a more holistic approach of giving an advantage regarding speed over the traditional approach as well as flexibility.