Follow-the-Greens: The Controllers’ Point of View. Results from a SESAR Real Time Simulation with Controllers.

Abstract

Although pilots are often supported by signage, markings and lighting when taxiing on the airport surface, navigation and monitoring remain workload intense tasks even in good weather conditions. Radio communication is near capacity limits on many airports today resulting in waiting times and delay. Apart from well-known safety issues this also constitutes a negative impact on the environment. The European aviation research program SESAR addressed this problem and came up with a solution: A new surface traffic management concept proposes the automated use of Airfield Ground Lighting with individually switched green taxiway centerline lights indicating the path to be followed. This paper presents official validation results indicating that SESAR developed a safer, quicker and greener surface traffic management concept.