Adaptive ATC tracking management for safety assurance

This paper describes a novel methodology for adaptive management of centralized ATC surveillance systems (radar networks, ADS (automatic dependent surveillance), ground based ADS-B, ...). It is based on linking tracking systems overall resources consumption with air traffic control operational requirements. The sensors and the overall surveillance system change their current passive role, adapting their behavior in real time, focusing its resources to enhance surveillance in problematic areas or situations. Using this approach, high level ATC functions, such as separation assurance, 4D flight plan monitoring, or track continuity requirements will command the functioning of the overall tracking system, including sensors, data processing functions and communication networks, in real time.