Terminal flight data management for NextGen towers

In the next generation air traffic system (NextGen) terminal automation will be a focal point of improvements. Every flight starts at a Gate and ends at another Gate. Only fully embracing Gate-to-Gate optimization will maximize the NextGen cost-effectiveness and safety. At the beginning of these concepts stands the terminal flight data management (TFDM). This paper outlines the shortcomings of the current flight data operations in the terminal and draws attention to alternative concepts reducing controller workload, inefficient use of resources, and unnecessary delays. With the advent of System Wide Information Management (SWIM) in the NAS, new capabilities will be brought online, which allow for interaction between terminal systems and generate the basis for the future Gate-to-Gate concept. Key success factors include an Electronic Flight Strip Management System to maximize cost-effectiveness and safety.