The Concept of Merging Arrival Flows in PMS for an Example Airport

Abstract

Air traffic management must develop to a more comprehensive standard aimed at increasing the complexity of the structure of airspace. It requires implementing new solutions to optimize the efficiency of sectors, as well as modifying current operating methods. A broad overview of airborne sequencing and merging practices which focuses on mathematical formulations and methodologies, also considering different optimization criteria, is provided. Efficient and feasible managing of arrivals involves not only strategic decision-making but also tactical control. In this paper, a novel concept of integrated aircraft trajectory planning in the PMS (Point Merge System) was devised for operations realized to RWY33 (Runway) at EPWA (Warsaw Chopin Airport). The created system is derived from Eurocontrol’s guidelines which are based on deployed PMS procedures. Airspace configuration in TMA EPWA (Terminal Maneuvering Area) imposes a specific structure of the designed configuration. It relies on the operational route network indicated in STAR (Standard Terminal Arrival Route). A systematic approach prototype is aimed at dynamically managing the large trajectories in routine dense operation with automated conflict-free solutions. Although such an anticipation introduces early limitations in operational management of upstream sectors, it reduces the need for holding and is beneficial in terms of standardization of working methods and flight efficiency.