4D-trajectory time windows: definition and uncertainty management. Issue 5 (19th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rodríguez-Sanz, Álvaro; Gómez Comendador, Fernando; Arnaldo Valdés, Rosa M.; Pérez-Castán, Javier A.; González García, Pablo; Najar Godoy, Mar Najar Godoy
• Is Part Of: Aircraft engineering and aerospace technology. Volume 91:Issue 5(2019)
• Page Start: 761
• Page End: 782
• Publication Date: 2018-12-19
• Subjects: Monte Carlo simulation -- Causality -- Predictability -- 4D trajectories -- Air traffic management -- Bayesian networks; Aerospace engineering -- Periodicals; Aeronautics -- Systems engineering -- Periodicals; Astronautics -- Systems engineering -- Periodicals; Airplanes -- Equipment and supplies -- Periodicals; Space vehicles -- Equipment and supplies -- Periodicals; Aerospace industries -- Periodicals; 629.1
• DOI: 10.1108/AEAT-01-2018-0031
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-8842

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The use of the 4D trajectory operational concept in the future air traffic management (ATM) system will require the aircraft to meet very accurately an arrival time over a designated checkpoint. To do this, time intervals known as time windows (TW) are defined. The purpose of this paper is to develop a methodology to characterise these TWs and to manage the uncertainty associated with the evolution of 4D trajectories. Design/methodology/approach: 4D trajectories are modelled using a point mass model and EUROCONTROL's BADA methodology. The authors stochastically evaluate the variability of the parameters that influence 4D trajectories using Monte Carlo simulation. This enables the authors to delimit TWs for several checkpoints. Finally, the authors set out a causal model, based on a Bayesian network approach, to evaluate the impact of variations in fundamental parameters at the chosen checkpoints. Findings: The initial results show that the proposed TW model limits the deviation in time to less than 27 s at the checkpoints of an en-route segment (300 NM). Practical implications: The objective of new trajectory-based operations is to efficiently and strategically manage the expected increase in air traffic volumes and to apply tactical interventions as a last resort only. We need new tools to support 4D trajectory management functions such as strategic and collaborative planning. The authors propose a novel approach for to ensure aircraft punctuality. Originality/value: The main contribution of the paper is the development of a model to deal with uncertainty and to increase predictability in 4D trajectories, which are key elements of the future airspace operational environment.