Agent-Based Assessment of Trajectory-Oriented Operations with Limited Delegation

An evolutionary concept called "trajectory-oriented operations with limited delegation" is the subject of a preliminary assessment conducted using fast-time simulations with computational agents that represent air traffic controllers. The concept integrates technologies relevant to the next generation air transportation system (NGATS) and holds promise for efficiency gains by enabling aircraft to fly continuous descent approaches (CDAs). The assessment focuses on how controller strategies and automation tools impact CDA operations. The results indicate the concept represents an advance toward higher-efficiency NGATS operations, and emphasize the importance of shared information and air traffic controller decision support tools