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Dynamic reconfiguration of terminal airspace during convective weather | IEEE Conference Publication | IEEE Xplore

Dynamic reconfiguration of terminal airspace during convective weather


Abstract:

Dynamic airspace configuration (DAC) algorithms strive to restructure the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) in ways that allow air traffic control to better manage airc...Show More

Abstract:

Dynamic airspace configuration (DAC) algorithms strive to restructure the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) in ways that allow air traffic control to better manage aircraft flows. Although past research has largely focused on enroute airspace in clear weather conditions, the principle of better matching airspace structure to ambient conditions has potential to benefit airport terminal areas, which are often impacted by congestion due to convective weather, especially during summer months when travel demand is high. This paper studies the problem of dynamic airspace configuration in the terminal area given a stochastic model of route availability during convective weather conditions. An integer programming model is proposed for the dynamic reconfiguration of the terminal area. This model recommends small changes to airspace structure that alleviate airspace congestion, while limiting disruptions to air traffic control procedures. The model is tested against actual weather scenarios, and shows promising benefits to operations.
Date of Conference: 15-17 December 2010
Date Added to IEEE Xplore: 22 February 2011
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ISSN Information:

Conference Location: Atlanta, GA, USA

I. Introduction

The growth in demand for air traffic operations in the United States has made the system particularly susceptible to weather-related disruptions. In 2009, 44% of the total minutes of flight delays in the U.S. were due to weather [1]. Convective weather, in particular, is responsible for large delays and widespread disruptions in the National Airspace System (NAS), especially during summer months when travel demand is high. Efficiently operating the airspace system in the presence of weather requires the integration of weather forecast products into air traffic management decision-making. One strategy for managing aircraft during periods of decreased airspace capacity due to the presence of storms is to relax the rigid structure of airspace and reconfigure airspace more effectively given the specific demand and weather conditions.

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