Optimization of the waiting time and makespan in aircraft departures: A real time non-iterative sequencing model

Abstract

This work aims to minimize the waiting time in the runway queue, by proposing a non-iterative real-time model, which can assist air traffic controllers in decision making in times of congestion on the ground at any airport. The model shows that the number of sequenced aircraft at the same time directly influences waiting times and makespan. In addition, factors such as landing time and operational restrictions modify the optimized sequencing as well as the waiting time of the aircraft on the ground. Particularly, the separation minima possibly become the major factor of influence when the SID is considered. Finally, by using Monte Carlo simulation it was possible to state that uncertainties related to taxiing time do not imply significant changes in the departure queue.