A real-time integrated optimization of the aircraft holding time and rerouting under risk area

Abstract

Fight on-time rate is one of the key air transport industry’s service quality indicators, often affected by adverse weather. In order to improve flight punctuality and reduce the impact of adverse weather on flights, a Real-time Integrated Optimization of the Aircraft Holding Time and Rerouting under Risk Area (RIOAHTR-RA) model is proposed at minimizing the total flight duration from the start point of rerouting to the end point of rerouting under adverse weather condition. In this model, the update cycle based on radar data is generally 6 min, and the position relationship between risk area and the aircraft is available and described in real time. The RIOAHTR-RA model is then solved by the distribution estimation algorithm with improved artificial potential field (IAPF) by introducing intermediate target point, relative position and relative velocity factors. Then, the optimal holding time and rerouting path for aircraft were allocated. The results are compared with the single rerouting strategy, and the effectiveness of the optimization solver with improved IAPF is evaluated. Compared with the data of the Hong Kong Observatory’s forecast system, the results show that appropriate holding time before rerouting can reduce flight delays. The proposed RIOAHTR-RA model is suitable for real-time air traffic flow management.