Definition, development and validation of a vertidrome manager within the U-space framework

Abstract

This thesis concerns itself with the definition, development and validation of a vertiport manager within the U-space framework. This vertiport manager is intended to automate a majority of the tasks an air traffic controller, as well as the flow management would normally perform. The focus of this system is put on the scheduling and controlling of the airborne and pad operations. In preparation of the development, an initial work analysis is conducted, comparisons, highlighting the differences to conventional air traffic are made and the overall structure and requirements of such a management system are defined. Subsequently, the implemented functions of the vertiport manager and the simulation as a whole, as well as options for customization of the simulation and addition of pre-specified inputs, are introduced and their functionality validated. A short look is then taken on already implemented emergency and contingency procedures and a non-exhaustive set of scenarios with possible procedural solutions outlined. In a final chapter the developed simulation and the vertiport manager are discussed and short-comings, possible solutions, as well as further development options are proposed.