Air Traffic Management Concept Baseline Definition - The Boeing ...

5 Available and Emerging Technology
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 System Performance
To achieve reduced airplane separations in part requires a formal definition of system
performance that encompasses improved communications, navigation and surveillance
performance. In addition, a formal characterization is required of the airspace environment
(e.g., airspace configuration, traffic characteristics, available functionality, procedures
definitions) for both nominal and rare-normal performance (e.g., failure modes, temporary
constraints such as weather, etc.).
Experience has shown the need for a formal definition of system performance. For
example, more precise departure and approach paths and direct routings for improved
airspace operations were expected with the introduction of area navigation technology
such as that introduced in the initial 757/67 aircraft fielded in 1982. A more complete
characterization of systems capabilities and features (i.e., the airplane operating
environment and air traffic infrastructure) since 1982 has led to incremental step benefits.
Total system performance characterization of the primary variables enables the higher level
of performance and closer permitted separation.
The proposed definitions of the required performance components for navigation,
communication and surveillance are summarized in the following paragraphs. RNP has
been adopted by the ICAO Required General Concept of Separation Panel (RGCSP) and
All-Weather Operations Panel (AWOP), implemented in the Boeing 737, 747, 777 models
(757/767 will be certified in early 1998), and is ready for initial operational approval. RCP
and Required Monitoring Performance (RMP) are in various stages of development.
These performance definitions can be combined in many ways to support the reduction of
buffer regions in airplane separation. However, the identification of Required System
Performance must find a practical set of CNS capabilities that address operational needs in
a way that provides intended efficiency while maintaining or increasing safety. To
illustrate the objective of RSP, one can conceive a protection volume around the airplane,
whose size depends on the dimensions of the combined communication, navigation,
surveillance performance, and synthesizes into an RSP performance characterization.
5.1.2 Communication Performance
Airplane communication requirements for each phase of flight are a function of the
controller-pilot communication needs. These vary greatly with traffic complexity and
density, the weather conditions, the controller’s needs to issue clearances and vector the
airplane or simply to establish contact with the crew.
Increased communication performance will be provided through air/ground data link
communications integrated into the Aeronautical Telecommunication Network (ATN) to
complement the current voice communications means. This evolution to more data
communications together with increased flexibility in the use of communication
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