Terminal area arrival management concepts using tactical merge management techniques

This paper describes operational concept options for 4D trajectory-based arrival management in the terminal area, using Flight Management Systems (FMS) capable of Area Navigation (RNAV), Required Navigation Performance (RNP), Vertical Navigation (VNAV), as well as Required Time of Arrival (RTA) and airplane-based Interval Management (IM). Furthermore, it is assumed that the ATM automation system provides support to the controller to enable the airplane to fully utilize the above capabilities while maximizing the throughput of a large airport. The paper assumes an arrival management process that is consistent with the current FAA automation architecture for Time-Based Metering, and with the capabilities of the NASA Center-TRACON Automation System (CTAS), i.e. the Traffic Management Advisor (TMA) and Efficient Descent Advisor (EDA). The paper refers to the use of these particular capabilities, but many other similar capabilities are already in use or under development across the ATM industry. The paper also assumes the use of an automation capability for efficient operations through the TRACON that supports the airplane capabilities described above. The capability considered in this paper is based on the Relative Position Indicator (RPI) developed by MITRE CAASD, which is scheduled for demonstration in selected FAA TRACON facilities in 2010. The paper discusses the RPI concept in the context of other concepts that involve RNAV/RNP, RTA and IM capabilities. An analysis of the technical performance of these arrival management concepts using the Boeing Trajectory Analysis and Modeling Environment (TAME) is presented. The paper describes how the authors chose to represent the potential application of the RPI in a fast-time simulation of the Denver TRACON airspace. The results show the influence of speed control strategies and scenario design on spacing performance and runway delivery accuracy.