Conflict resolution advisory for autonomous airborne separation in low-density airspace

The autonomous aircraft operations concept is discussed as a main option for the future European air traffic management system (EATMS). This concept addresses the delegation of air traffic control function to the flight deck to operate in the EATMS free-flight airspace. The feasibility of this concept is investigated within the framework of the FREER (free route experimental encounter resolution) project at EUROCONTROL. In this paper, we discuss its conflict detection, based upon the principle of "forbidden" zones, and a conflict resolution approach, using an artificial force technique. A prototype of the FREER airborne system is implemented on a network of cockpit simulators to demonstrate the concept.