Operational evolution of an integrated URET/CPDLC capability

The MITRE Corporation´s Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (CAASD) is supporting the evolution to Free Flight. For Free Flight Phase 1 (FFP1), CAASD developed the User Request Evaluation Tool (URET), which provides problem prediction and notification capabilities, as well as sector-level problem resolution capabilities via manual trial planning. An evolutionary approach to introducing new en route sector capabilities is being used. The integration of URET with the Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) offers the potential to improve safety and efficiency in the NAS. MITRE CAASD has developed an initial capability to evaluate the integration concept. The purpose of this initial capability is to assess en route controllers´ interactions with an integrated URET/CPDLC capability and identify information display requirements. A simulated CPDLC messaging capability has been integrated in a research version of the URET En Route Research Prototype at MITRE CAASD. This integrated capability allows a controller to simulate the exchange of a limited set of CPDLC messages with aircraft through an enhanced URET Computer Human Interface (CHI.) This paper describes the stand-alone URET and CPDLC functionality, conceptual levels of integration, and a concept of use for an integrated capability. Next the URET/CPDLC integrated capability is described. A scenario describing the use of the integrated capabilities is presented. Finally, the initial results of the evaluation using this capability and the next steps in its development are discussed.