Optimal Resolution of En Route Conflicts

Abstract

In this article, we present mathematical modeling for en route conflict resolution, discuss the mathematical complexity of this problem, and show that classical mathematical optimization techniques are not suited to solve it. Instead, a stochastic optimization algorithm based on genetic techniques is presented. This algorithm can find many different nearly optimal solutions in real time, even in very complex situations involving many aircraft. Different examples of resolution with highly loaded traffic are presented and the results of the solver on an air traffic controller simulation prototype with real flight plans are evaluated. Limitations of the system and possible improvements are discussed. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.