Q: How do I download Quick Office files onto my laptop from an iPad Air?

USB to iPad supports only "Camera" files via camera connection kit.

There are lots of ways of moving files.

A simple and popular way to copy files and share files amoung your devices.

https://www.dropbox.com/

Using iTunes to transfer files:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4094?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

Files Connect -- The swiss army knife of remote file connect

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/files-connect/id404324302?mt=8

iExplorer -- " iExplorer's disk mounting features allow you to use your iPhone, iPod or iPad like a USB flash drive."

http://www.macroplant.com/iexplorer/

Windows File server

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/filebrowser-access-files-on/id364738545?mt=8