Current Airspace Configuration Practicesand Their Implications for Future Airspace Concepts

摘要

The Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) envisions a flexible, dynamic airspace structure that is better able to adapt to changing traffic conditions than today's rigid system of airways and airspace sectors. However, to develop effective NextGen airspace concepts, a thorough understanding is needed of current airspace configuration practices, and of the constraints that influence airspace design. This paper describes current-day airspace configuration practices and the factors that affect the partitioning of today's airspace. These observations are based on site visits to air traffic control facilities and subject matter expert critiques of potential future airspace designs. The implications that today's airspace configuration practices have for NextGen airspace concepts are then discussed.