Airbus, Technology Innovation Institute and Aspire sign agreement to accelerate advanced technologies for aviation

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 19 November 2025 – Airbus, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), part of Abu Dhabi Government's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), and ASPIRE, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced and disruptive technologies for aviation.

The agreement, announced today at Dubai Airshow 2025, marks an important milestone in Airbus' ongoing mission to harness breakthrough science for world-class, cutting edge practical and sustainable aerospace solutions. This collaboration was triggered by TII's engagement as a finalist in the Airbus BMW Quantum Challenge 2024, where the institute proposed a possible quantum algorithm to accurately predict aerodynamic flows and the propagation of sound waves, a critical factor in reducing noise pollution and lowering carbon emissions.

Through this initial reconnaissance, both companies commenced exploring other opportunities for technology joint-development. Beyond quantum computing and sensing, the collaboration will extend to the study of new technologies for rotary aircraft and advanced materials. Airbus and TII will jointly investigate biosourced composites and self-healing and self-repairing materials such as polymers, for space applications, aiming to improve sustainability, resilience, and safety in future aircraft and spacecraft.

Stephane Timpano, CEO at ASPIRE, said: 'At ASPIRE, we are dedicated to advancing disruptive technologies that address real-world challenges. Our collaboration with Airbus is a testament to the power of global partnerships in translating quantum research into practical solutions for industry. Together, we look forward to pioneering new frontiers in aviation and beyond.'

Gabriel Semelas, President, Airbus Africa and Middle East said: 'Extending our global technology ecosystem through this partnership with TII in the UAE underscores Airbus's long-term commitment to embracing breakthrough science. Together we will harness the immense potential of advanced and disruptive technologies, like quantum, and accelerate our shared ability to turn scientific research into real-world impact and products for a sustainable aviation future.'

Airbus has a long-standing presence in the Middle East, working with governments, armed forces, and industry partners to deliver advanced aerospace solutions and foster local talent development. The company remains committed to supporting the UAE's ambitions for industrial growth, innovation, and global leadership in aerospace.