Air traffic controller conduct of a no-closer-than spacing operation

Abstract

To examine a new concept called Cockpit Display of Traffic Information (CDTI) Assisted Pilot Procedure (CAPP), a Human-In-The-loop (HITL) simulation was conducted. With CAPP, the controller issues a no-closer-than spacing distance to the flight crew who then makes spacing judgments using information provided on the CDTI. The flight crew manages aircraft speed to stay at or outside of that spacing value until a transition to visual separation occurs. The purpose of the simulation was to determine the feasibility and operational acceptability of CAPP. The simulation was conducted with air traffic controllers and pilots. Controller results are presented in this paper. Overall, the results indicate controller acceptability of, and ability to conduct, CAPP. Potential benefits were found but recommendations were made for continued examination of the most beneficial concept.