High Density Terminal Areas Research Articles

Radar track segmentation with cubic splines for collision risk models in high density terminal areas

This paper presents a method to segment airplane radar tracks in high density terminal areas where the air traffic follows trajectories with several changes in heading, speed and altitude. The radar tracks are modelled with different types of segments, straight lines, cubic spline function and shape preserving cubic function. The longitudinal, lateral and vertical deviations are calculated for terminal manoeuvring area scenarios. The most promising model of the radar tracks resulted from a mixed interpolation using straight lines for linear segments and spline cubic functions for curved segments. A sensitivity analysis is used to optimise the size of the window for the segmentation process.

The Effect of Social Proof on Weather-Related Decision Making in Aviation

This paper examines several accident reports to investigate how a pilot's decision-making is influenced by the decisions made by pilots flying in her/his proximity. Among all the possible theories on influence we frame the problem in terms of Cialdini's (1993) concept of social proof, one that seems particularly appropriate for the analysis of accidents that occurred under deteriorating weather conditions in high-density terminal areas. In the paper we argue that, under those conditions, a very critical moment occurs when pilots should start making no-go or divert decisions after a stream of successful takeoffs and landings has been conducted. Following our examination, we highlight potential streams of research that may yield significant results in this area.

An algorithm for computer assisted sequencing and scheduling of terminal area operations

A methodology is proposed for sequencing and scheduling of aircraft in high density terminal areas. Termed Constrained Position Shifting (CPS), this methodology is examined and its effectiveness tested. Potential capacity improvements are noted over the First-Come, First-Served, Runway (FCFS-RW) strategy, especially during peak periods.

The dynamic scheduling of aircraft in high density terminal areas

We find the most efficient (airport) runway utilization by using a methodology which we call Constrained Position Shifting (CPS). We examine this methodology from the perspectives of both pilots and air traffic controllers by simulation. The results indicate that significant and equitable improvements in system performance are achieved, especially during peak periods.

Area Navigation and the Relationship to Terminal Area Capacity

An area navigation capability can be of considerable benefit to users as well as providers of ground facilities. A.T.C. radar terminal service and area navigation utilizing cockpit pictorial displays are complementary from a total system viewpoint. Pictorial displays, coupled with digital computers capable of storing navigation information, will greatly reduce pilot workload. Optimum usage of A.T.C. radar service and cockpit navigation will provide maximum redundancy at least total cost and reduce controller workload.Pictorial computer procedures will have many applications of benefit to high density terminal areas, such as (1) departure paths from a satellite airport, (2) descent paths from high altitude to a terminal area, (3) missed approach patterns, (4) approaches to satellite airports, (5) simplified holding procedures, and (6) discrete paths for descent corridors. Procedures are expected to be developed as a result of a full-scale Federal Aviation Administration operational programme for selected en-route and terminal areas permitting use of area navigation facilities, using F.A.A., airline and general aviation aircraft in a live A.T.C. environment.