Aircraft route optimization using genetic algorithms

In the course of TF/TA/sup 2/ (Terrain Following/Terrain Avoidance/Threat Avoidance), it is necessary to do flight mission planning by which to obtain the optimal flight route based on the information of terrain feature, culture and threats in the mission area, so as to increase the aircraft's survivability in the flight mission. The paper uses genetic algorithms to optimize the flight route. The description of the cost function in low altitude flight and penetration is discussed. The special structures of the chromosomes and genes in the algorithm are designed. Furthermore, simulations in different types of flight areas are presented. The results show that this method is better than dynamic programming and the gradient method.