Uncovering Hidden Inefficiencies in the Route Availability Document

This study investigates inefficiencies within the Route Availability Document (RAD) used in European air traffic management, focusing on flights from Zurich Airport (LSZH) to various airports in London (EGLL, EGKK, and EGLC). The RAD imposes complex restrictions that impact flight planning, which can lead to inefficiencies. By analyzing flight plans and historical aircraft trajectories, this study highlights discrepancies between filed flight plans and actual flight paths for these city pairs, with only between 2.7% and 4.5% of the flights flying as filed. The impact of EUROCONTROL’s All Together Now 2024 initiative was also assessed, revealing no improvements in adherence to the flight plans. Statistical tests were employed to quantify differences in flight distance and duration, demonstrating that deviations from the RAD constraints lead to shorter and more efficient flights. The study proposes methods for scaling this analysis to uncover inefficiencies and suggests potential RAD modifications to enhance air traffic management efficiency.