Measuring the effects of RNAV departure procedures on airport efficiency

To analyze the impact of area navigation-standard instrument departure (RNAV SID) on operations at Atlanta terminal radar approach control (ATL TRACON). The MITRE Corporation's Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (CAASD) collected radar track data prior to implementation of the RNAV procedures, as well as post-implementation data. Through analysis of this radar track data, we measure the effects of RNAV SID procedures on departure throughput, and the resulting effects on taxi-out time and departure delay. In addition, distance flown inside the terminal area is a key metric. Vertical performance inside the terminal area was analyzed for reductions in level-offs. Results are coordinated and validated with anecdotal data from the airlines regarding these benefits and others, and statistical analyses combined with operational feedback provides insight towards the benefits of these procedures.