Impact of continuous climb operations in a high traffic density TMA = Impacto en la capacidad operativa de un TMA de alta densidad por la integración de operaciones de ascenso continuo

Abstract

Air transport is currently undergoing one of the biggest transformations in its history due to the development of the macro-programs SESAR and NextGen. To manage this growth, SESAR and NextGen are developing novel procedures that contribute to pollutant reduction in the vicinity of airports. These eco-friendly procedures are based on continuous operations throughout the flight. However, it is increasingly difficult to use flight-optimal trajectories due to the ongoing growth in air traffic. This dissertation aims to assess the impact of Continuous Climb Operations (CCOs) in a high traffic density Terminal Control Area (TMA). CCOs are new optimal departing trajectories that minimise fuel consumption, emissions and noise-levels within the vicinity of airports. In contrast to previous research, this dissertation does not focus on the optimisation techniques of these procedures but the impact in terms of safety and capacity. The reason is that the introduction of CCOs in low-density airports does not mean any impediment. However, these procedures can be prevented from their use during rush hours in high-density TMAs. The ultimate goal of the CCO integration is to permit the operation of optimised trajectories by airlines. Nonetheless, the variability associated with optimised trajectories that can be operated is very large. Airspace and procedure design, as well as Air Traffic Control (ATC), must provide an air transport system that favour the integration of CCOs. A CCO is not removed by the ATC interaction, but the aircraft worsen their performances. Then, ATC should focus on facilitating the operation of optimised trajectories free of their interactions. This cannot be achieved without the modification of current ATC techniques and airspace design. Therefore, new runway separation minima are calculated for consecutive CCOs. These CCO separation minima ensure a conflict-free departure