The relative value of trajectory prediction and conflict-resolution algorithms

In the future, air traffic controllers will most likely come to rely on decision-support tools and increased levels of automation to help manage and separate aircraft. Conflict-detection and conflict-resolution are examples of two key areas where increased automation and improved accuracy are considered imperatives to the future efficiency of airspace systems. The inclusion of decision-support tools for conflict-detection and resolution is expected to reduce controller workload by decreasing the mental stress associated with identifying potential conflicts and maintaining aircraft separation. Despite the benefits of such systems, there has been limited study into the relative importance of improved conflict-detection tools as compared to the introduction of conflict-resolution algorithms for decision-support in order to manage the taskload associated with conflict-resolution. Taking aim at such an analysis, our goal is to understand how efforts into improved conflict-detection and conflict-resolution tools should be appropriated as part of a future research portfolio.