Managing aircraft by trajectory: Literature review and lessons learned

Abstract

In order to realize the full potential of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), improved management along planned trajectories between air navigation service providers (ANSPs) and system users (e.g., pilots and airline dispatchers) is needed. Automation improvements and increased data communications between aircraft and ground automation would make the concept of Management by Trajectory (MBT) possible. Key components of the MBT concept include: • The ability for air traffic controllers and managers to quickly generate, evaluate and implement changes to an aircraft's trajectory. • Imposing constraints on flight operator-preferred trajectories only to the extent necessary to maintain safe and efficient traffic flows. • A method for the exchange of trajectory information between ground automation systems and the aircraft that allows for trajectory synchronization and trajectory negotiation. MBT addresses shortfalls that remain in the Trajectory Based Operations (TBO) solution set, despite years of research into various aspects of transitioning from the current airspace environment to TBO. This paper provides findings and insights from a literature survey of TBO-related concepts and technologies. These insights can be applied to improve the feasibility and ultimate adoption of MBT.