Real-Time Trajectory Optimisation Models for Next Generation Air Traffic Management Systems

This paper presents models and algorithms for real-time 4-Dimensional Flight Trajectory (4DT) operations in next generation Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) systems. In particular, the models are employed for multi-objective optimisation of 4DT intents in ground-based 4DT Planning, Negotiation and Validation (4-PNV) systems and in airborne Next Generation Flight Management Systems (NG-FMS). The assumed timeframe convention for offline and online air traffic operations is introduced and discussed. The adopted formulation of the multi-objective 4DT optimisation problem includes a number of environmental objectives and operational constraints. In particular, the paper describes a real-time multi-objective optimisation algorithm and the generalised expression of the cost function adopted for penalties associated with specific airspace volumes, accounting for weather models, condensation trails models and noise models.