Advancements in passenger processes at airports - An aircraft perspective

Abstract

This paper provides an overview about the research done in the field of aircraft boarding focusing on fast and reliable progress. Since future 4D aircraft trajectories demand the comprehensive consideration of environmental, economic, and operational constraints, a reliable prediction of all aircraft-related processes along the specific trajectories at both air and ground is essential for punctual operations. The ground processes (aircraft turnaround) are mainly controlled by the ground handling, airport or airline staff, except the aircraft boarding, which is driven by the passengers' experience and willingness or ability to follow the proposed procedures. In this paper we provide a comparison of two model approaches to cover the individual behavior of passengers during the aircraft boarding. The implementation of two innovative infrastructural changes demonstrates the still unused potentials to further improve the boarding progress. Furthermore, the need for adapted procedures, the capabilities of a future connected cabin, and field trial results of a dynamic seat allocation are presented.