A dynamic air traffic model for analyzing relationship patterns of traffic flow parameters in terminal airspace

This paper provides a special view on air traffic flow parameters and presents certain influences from airspace to traffic flow characteristics. Based on statistics on measurement radar data within terminal airspace, we obtain time distributions and interrelationships of the basic parameters, and accordingly divide traffic flow states into 3 phases: free flow, mild-controlled and strong-controlled flow. Through analyzing characteristics shown in different phase states, as well as aircraft performing in real airspace operations, we establish dynamic models to describe potential behaviors including following, holding and maneuvering, while programing them into simulation tools. Relationship patterns are validated by comparison analysis on the similar simulation results against measurement data. Taking air route adjustment as simulation example, we conduct experiments on airspace elements that may have effects on traffic flow, with further discussing on possible reasons. (C) 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.