Strategic conflict detection and resolution for free flight

Abstract

We analyze free flight conflict detection and resolution problems at the strategic level, where conflicts are resolved primarily with economics as the driving force, and with safety as a constraint. First, both deterministic and non-deterministic models are presented for conflict detection. Then, we present an economic model that is appropriate for heading, speed, and altitude maneuvers. For a cost-benefits analysis, we compare the economic results of heading, speed, and altitude maneuvers based on horizontal separation requirement of 5 nmi. for free flight. In general, altitude maneuvers are shown to be the most economical, followed by heading maneuvers, and finally speed change maneuvers.