Arrival time optimization at hubs of network airlines

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the prospects and feasibility of optimizing the speed of an arriving aircraft flying into a hub of a network airline to prevent congestion, reduce costs and maximize profit. Design/methodology/approach The cost function of each arriving aircraft is compared to other aircrafts arriving in the same wave of an airport. These cost functions are the sum of the time-variant cost functions of each passenger; the aircraft itself is taken into account for fuel consumption, fuel price or the cost of possible missed connections of passengers. An optimization is done in terms of speed adjustments to maximize the revenue of those flights arriving at a hub of a network carrier airline. Findings The simulation shows that it is theoretically possible to control the speed of an aircraft by a real-time optimization to minimize costs of airline hub operations. Research limitations/implications There are more influence factors to be investigated than the ones mentioned in this study. Practical implications Practical use in airline operation is more complicated as in simulation, and the interface with reservation systems is difficult to establish. Originality/value Systems as shown here are not used in the airline business presently; therefore, an immediate demand on research in this field is vital.