Trajectory synchronization and negotiation in Trajectory Based Operations

Trajectory Based Operations (TBO) is a key component of both the US Next Generation Air Transport System (NextGen) and Europe's Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR). There is a significant amount of effort underway in both programs to advance this concept. Trajectory Synchronization and Negotiation are key required capabilities in both the NextGen and SESAR TBO concepts, and they provide the framework to improve the efficiency of airspace operations. In recognition of the importance of TBO, General Electric and Lockheed Martin have created a Joint Strategic Research Initiative (JSRI), which aims to generate technologies that accelerate adoption of TBO. This paper explores various trajectory synchronization and negotiation concepts, including existing gaps and shortfalls. This paper also presents the JSRI simulation and evaluation environment being developed, which embeds trajectory synchronization and negotiation concepts, and has the potential to address existing gaps and shortfalls.