Simulation-Based Virtual Cycle for Multi-Level Airport Analysis

Abstract

The aeronautical industry is expanding after a period of economic turmoil. For this reason, a growing number of airports are facing capacity problems that can sometimes only be resolved by expanding infrastructure, with the inherent risks that such decisions create. In order to deal with uncertainty at different levels, it is necessary to have relevant tools during an expansion project or during the planning phases of new infrastructure. This article presents a methodology that combines simulation approaches with different description levels that complement each other when applied to the development of a new airport. The methodology is illustrated with an example that uses two models for an expansion project of an airport in The Netherlands. One model focuses on the operation of the airport from a high-level position, while the second focuses on other technical aspects of the operation that challenge the feasibility of the proposed configuration of the apron. The results show that by applying the methodology, analytical power is enhanced and the risk of making the wrong decisions is reduced. We identified the limitations that the future facility will have and the impact of the physical characteristics of the traffic that will operate in the airport. The methodology can be used for tackling different problems and studying particular performance indicators to help decision-makers take more informed decisions.

Modelling of the ground connection between two airports in a multi-airport system: case Santa Lucia - Mexico City

“…The methodology followed in this work, is the one presented by Mujica et al (2018) for developing a multi model system in which a combination of models are developed in order to create one that minimizes the uncertainty associated with the modelling process (Figure 2). By using this methodology an integral model of the multi-airport is developed considering all the different components such as: terminal facilities of the two airports and the connection between them.…”

“…The approach allows identifying potential problems of the future system as well as increasing the situational awareness during the planning process of the airport facilities. A more detailed description of the methodology can be found in the paper of Mujica et al (2018).…”

“…In this context, it becomes critical the use of the right tools for evaluating the performance of the system, so that infrastructures can be designed in the most optimal way. Modeling and simulation techniques have been widely used for planning activities in various fields, from logistics to manufacturing (Banks 1998;Brunner et al 1998;Negahban and Smith 2014), and lately some authors have also used them for airport planning purposes (Mujica et al 2018;. Considering the previously issues regarding the multiairport planning and design, the aim of this study is to identify and understand the limitations and impact of the connecting infrastructure in the performance of the system Santa Lucia-Mexico City.…”

Influence of the Apron Parking Stand Management Policy on Aircraft and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Gaseous Emissions at Airports

“…Afterwards, Ref. [16] uses a model based on a "virtual cycle", which consists of two independent models, feeding each other to optimize apron configuration. Through this "virtual cycle", the groups and number of required vehicles can be determined according to the two proposed apron configurations (independent and supported stands).…”

Use of Simulation Tools for Optimization of the Time Duration of Winter Maintenance Activities at Airports

“…All these events can critically endanger not only the airport's infrastructure but also its smooth and safe operation [18]. Ensuring operational continuity is a key task for airport management [19]. One of the ways to solve the problem is to manage the risk [20,21].…”