Conceptual model for runway change procedure in Guarulhos International Airport based on SODAR data

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this work, we qualify and quantify the advantages of using SODAR (sonic detection and ranging) from current scenarios of Aeronautical Meteorology, with the goal of establishing a conceptual model for runway change procedures at Guarulhos International Airport (São Paulo, Brazil). The methods consist of analysing data from the Department of Airspace Control (DECEA) and Brazilian Airport Infrastructure (Infraero) about the reports of runway changes in Guarulhos in addition to SODAR data from September 2011 and December 2013. It is noted that in 234 analysed cases of runway change, there were significant periods of weak-intensity wind on the surface as well as the anticipated modification wind direction at altitude detected by sonic detection and ranging (SODAR), indicating future changes in levels closer to the surface. By examining the intersection of both scenarios, it is possible to observe that there is enough time for the air traffic controller to anticipate the needed runway change while minimising the impact on the aircraft flow, and this period has an average duration of 1 hour and 24 minutes. This confirms that the preliminary analysis of the information provided by SODAR can help predict alterations in wind direction, requiring redirection and bringing advantages in economic and security terms.