A review on air traffic flow management optimization: trends, challenges, and future directions

Abstract

Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) is the backbone of modern aviation and ensures that aircraft move safely and efficiently through increasingly congested skies. As global air travel grows, managing air traffic has become more pressing than ever. This review assesses ten years of the ATFM literature, the period between 2014 and 2024, and discusses 162 studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Employing VOSViewer and Biblioshiny, this review analyzes the history of ATFM research. It explores the trends and gaps in research, which suggest there is room for improvement for more sound approaches. While optimization techniques have significantly improved efficiency and eased bottlenecks, the future lies in real-time solutions that can handle unpredictable events, from weather disruptions to technical failures. The review identified key areas for optimizing ATFM, categorized by primary focus: delay minimization, airspace congestion, and scheduling. It suggests ways in which more dynamic ATFM systems are possible in the growing global aviation network. By synthesizing the current research landscape, this review addresses the progress made. It offers a roadmap for future innovations that will enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of air traffic management.