Validation of an automated ground movement management concept

Abstract Increasing traffic density and airport surface complexity cause growing demands on air traffic control. Automation, that expands and matures, could help to manage this challenge and reduce air traffic controller workload. In this paper we focus on the automation of air traffic control for ground movements and validate prospects and acceptance of automation implemented by an automated ground movement management system. For this purpose, a prototype of a surface management system was enhanced with a module capable of controlling traffic. The aim of the validation trials was to assess the feasibility and acceptance of the automation concept. This includes the influence of automation on situation awareness, workload and the detection of safety-critical and operational disturbances. For this purpose, real-time human-in-the-loop simulations were conducted with ten ground and apron controllers in DLR’s apron and tower simulator. This paper describes and discusses the addressed research questions, the experimental set-up and the methods used for data collection and data analysis. It includes a comprehensive analysis and an overview of the simulation and debriefing results, providing valuable insights into the participants’ opinions on automation at the ground controller working position. More than half of the participants (56%) agreed that the automated system controlled the traffic safely and orderly. Furthermore, 85% of the intentionally induced disturbances were detected by participants while using the automation. Both concerns and recommendations for further improvement have been identified and analysed.