Simulation of inter-airport relations using a system-of-systems model

Abstract

Local airport operations depend on the air traffic network performance, since delays are propagated over the day of operations. We provide a formal System-of-Systems model to analyze this interdependent traffic network to enhance local operations by means of collaborative decision making. Airport operations are assumed to have benefits by collaborative efforts, even while following local objectives. Our System-of-Systems modeling research shows a structured way to model, build and analyze a global air traffic system with focus on joint airport coordination. Collaboration between airports is expected to result in higher, local operational efficiency, due to sharing of information for local decision making and capabilities to react on events outside of an airports’ responsibility. Modeling System- of-Systems is challenging as constituting airport-sub-systems are heterogeneous, complex to model in a formal way and follow their own, competing operational objectives. Optimization of operations is traditionally done within the specific sub-systems. Combining our System-of-Systems framework with collaborative decision making methods, opens up new potential in airport per- formance (e.g. capacity, punctuality) and leads to implementation of innovative techniques for airport decision systems.