Flight Test Results for Distributed Self-Sequencing Operations Using a Cloud-Based Flight Management System

This paper presents an analysis of results from a live flight test for a concept called distributed self-sequencing. Distributed self-sequencing allows aircraft to communicate with each other and self-organize both their sequencing and their spacing at a coordination fix. They self-determine their sequencing and spacing using a simple set of rules that are executed independently by a cloud-based system connected to each aircraft. This concept is part of a larger research initiative called Digital Flight, a proposed new operating mode in which aircraft are managed digitally and coexist with aircraft managed through traditional IFR and VFR operating modes. The system connected to each aircraft that determines the sequencing and spacing is called the Cloud Flight Management System (CFMS). CFMS is a digital twin of an aircraft’s Flight Management System that resides in a cloud-based computing platform. Each aircraft is connected to a separate CFMS via an air-ground communication link. In early 2025 we conducted a live flight test of this concept using a piloted flight in airspace near Burlington, Vermont. This flight was combined with two virtual flights remotely piloted from Cleveland, Ohio. All three flights were digitally twinned using the CFMS. Each digital twin executed the self-sequencing and spacing rules and, when a maneuver was required to properly sequence and/or space its aircraft, the digital twins communicated the relevant commands to their “ownships.” The test plan and results are detailed in this paper.