Experimental Evaluation of an Integrated Datalink and Automation-Based Strategic Trajectory Concept

Abstract

This paper presents research on the interoperability of trajectory -based automation conce pts and technologies with modern Flight Management Systems and datalink communication available on many of today’s commercial aircraft. A tight integration of trajectory -based ground automation systems with the aircraft Flight Management System through da talink will enable mid -term and far -term benefits from trajectory -based automation methods. A two -way datalink connection between the trajectory -based automation resident in the Center/TRACON Automation System and the Future Air Navigation System -1 integra ted FMS/datalink in NASA Ames’ B747 -400 Level D simulator has been established and extensive simulation of the use of datalink messages to generate strategic trajectories completed. A strategic trajectory is defined as an aircraft deviation needed to solv e a conflict or honor a route request and then merge the aircraft back to its nominal preferred trajectory using a single continuous trajectory clearance. E ngineers on the “ground side” of the datalink generated lateral and vertical trajectory clearances and transmitted them to the Flight Management System of the 747 ; th e airborne automation then fl ew the new trajectory without human intervention , requiring the flight crew only to review and to accept the trajectory . This simulation established the protoco ls needed for a significant majority of the trajectory change types required to solve a traffic conflict or deviate around weather. This demonstration provides a basis for understanding the requirements for integration of trajectory -based automation with c urrent Flight Management Systems and datalink to support future National Airspace System operations.