Evaluating Benefits of Reduced Separation Minima for North Atlantic Traffic Through Computer Simulations

Abstract

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract (ADS-C), Controller-Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC), Advanced Required Navigation Performance (RNP), Advanced Area Navigation (RNAV), and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) are technologies that enhance air traffic surveillance and improve air traffic control and pilot situational awareness. To measure the potential benefits of advanced surveillance systems we use a simulation tool named the Global Oceanic (GO) model. The GO model is a fast-time computer simulation tool developed jointly by the Virginia Tech Air Transportation Systems Laboratory and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The GO model employs discrete-time algorithms to simulate the entire trajectory of a flight from an origin airport to a destination. The objective of the GO Model is to evaluate new technologies and policies to improve flight operations in oceanic airspace including oceanic portions of the National Air Space (NAS). This study uses three metrics to quantify the potential benefits of new surveillance technologies that allow a reduction in oceanic separation standards. Metrics used in the study are fuel consumption, travel time, and the number of tactical resolution maneuvers (changing flight level, changing Mach number, or performing a lateral deviation) used by Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) to resolve air traffic conflicts.