QUBO formulation for aircraft load optimization

In this article, we tackle the aircraft load optimization problem using classical optimization algorithms and optimization algorithms with QUBO (quadratic unconstrained binary optimization) formulation to run on quantum annealers. The problem is realistic based on plans of a certain aircraft model, the Airbus A330 200F, and can be adapted to other models from other manufacturers. We maximize a characteristic of the combination of containers (unit load device, ULD) to be transported, be it weight, volume, profit, or another, while complying with necessary parameters related to the flight such as the balance of the center of gravity as well as stress in the structure. Finally, examples of the results of different runs on QUBO in the D-Wave simulator are presented.