01336823

Component

This study proposes a mathematical model that finds an en route sector combination that minimizes controller staffing. The model uses fixed posting areas (FPA) as the fundamental units for combination and incorporates statistical estimation results that serve as the mechanism for predicting staffing levels based on traffic conditions. To solve the model with typical optimization solvers, linearization techniques are applied to approximate or transform the nonlinear objective functions and constraints. Realistic traffic and staffing data are used to evaluate the model's ability to predict controller staffing. In the scenario analysis, the restrictions that have been imposed in the baseline model are relaxed. The potential savings in controller staffing are thus revealed by solving the problems under relaxation scenarios. It is shown that if the FPAs can be freely formed into sectors, then maximum savings can be obtained. The proposed model is intended to help practitioners, especially area supervisors or air traffic managers, forecast daily or hourly staffing requirements, so that controller resources can be used efficiently.

01329018

11-3247

English

20p

2011

Transportation Research Board 90th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures (4) ; References; Tables (3)

Air traffic controllers; Air transportation; Mathematical models; Personnel management; Selection and appointment; Statistical analysis; Terminal air traffic control; Working conditions

En route sectors; Staffing levels

Administration and Management; Aviation; Planning and Forecasting; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2011 Paper #11-3247

TRIS, TRB

Feb 17 2011 6:27PM