Evaluation of the Applicability of a Modern Aircraft Performance Model to Trajectory Optimization

Much of the research being performed as part of the current Air Traffic Management (ATM) modernization effort involves trajectory optimization. The trajectory computation tools required for this rely on aircraft performance models, but the validity of these models for optimization purposes has often not been demonstrated. As a first step towards filling this gap, this paper evaluates the accuracy of trajectory optimization results from a modern aircraft performance model (APM) designed for ATM applications, using reference data from a major aircraft manufacturer. The study focuses on cruise speed optimization and considers several aircraft types representative of jet airliner operations. A detailed evaluation of the APM presents the accuracy of its optimization results (cruise speed and fuel consumption) and underlying parameters (drag coefficient, specific range) for several cruise optimization criteria: maximum range, long range, and economy. Representative results are summed up to assess the suitability of this APM for cruise optimization in several types of applications: ATM simulations, environmental impact assessments, business and economic studies, and on-board applications.