Dynamic FPAs: A new method for dynamic airspace configuration

Abstract

Methods to dynamically adjust airspace in response to changing weather/traffic conditions are presently being actively researched. This includes the application of various sector boundary optimization techniques; although they show promise, they present many challenges as well. In this paper these challenges will be discussed in detail. Additionally, in order to overcome these challenges, a new method for dynamic airspace configuration is presented: Dynamic FPAs. Using the fix posting area (FPA), a key building block of today's airspace, we expand this concept and develop a method for controlled, incremental dynamic adjustments of sector boundaries that maintains workload (i.e., sector occupancy counts as percentage of MAP value) within specified limits. This method works well in 3D space and allows for both boundary adjustments and sector combinations where justified. It may also support many of the proposed Dynamic Airspace Configuration (DAC) airspace design concepts and classes. It is envisioned that this method can serve as a bridge between current and future NAS airspace design concepts.