Stability of intersecting aircraft flows under centralized and decentralized conflict avoidance rules

Abstract

Considering two intersecting flows of aircraft, this paper provides new stability proofs of aircraft deviation boundedness under decentralized, sequential conflict avoidance rules. In particular, proofs are provided to handle lateral displacement and offset maneuvers. Turning then towards the case of three intersecting aircraft flows using a simplified offset model, this paper provides evidence that simple decentralized conflict avoidance rules may not be closed-loop stable. However, centralized conflict resolution algorithms are proven to be stabilizing, that is, a suitable maneuver pattern is displayed that is resulting in bounded aircraft deviations.