Visual Controller Aids to Support Late Merging Operations for Fuel Efficient and Noise Reduced Approach Procedures

Abstract

Objective: The paper studies aircraft ghosting on a radar display as a potential means to support air traffic controllers with late merging operations in approach control. Background: A formerly presented late merging concept has pointed out operational benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and noise reduction. A first exploratory study has shown that the concept puts high task demands on the air traffic controller to achieve necessary precision. The provision of a ghosting system is considered as a potential automation tool which supports the controller in merging traffic. Methods: A microworld simulation of approach control was used to study the effect of two potential ghosting solutions (time-based vs. distance based ghosting) on control performance while executing late merging operations. Objective performance, situation awareness (SAGAT), and subjective ratings on the ghosting system were the main evaluation criteria. Results: The results confirm the hypothesized positive effects of both ghosting solutions on objective merging performance. Under certain conditions, ghosting had a negative effect on situation awareness as regards the position of real aircraft. Finally, the majority of participants reported that time-based ghosting support is less strenuous and more helpful for merging operation than distance-based ghosting. Conclusions: Ghosting brings about performance benefits. Yet, SA of real aircraft has to be ensured. Application: Results will inform the system design and experimental design for follow-up studies in the full mission simulator.