Robustness Analysis of Air Route Network Based on Topology Potential and Relative Entropy Methods

Air route network (ARN) is the important carrier of air transport, and its robustness has important influence on the safety and stability of air transport. To analyze the robustness of ARN, in this paper, a topology potential relative entropy (TPRE) model is proposed, based on topology potential (TP) and relative entropy (RE) methods. Firstly, the TPRE model is established as the theoretical basis for the research. Secondly, an air route reduction network (ARRN) model is constructed according to real Chinese ARN. Besides, the basic topology features of ARRN are given by complex network theory. To prove the applicability, objectivity, and accuracy of the proposed method, attack strategies including random, degree, betweenness, closeness, eigenvector, and Bonacich are used to attack ARRN. Eventually, the performance of ARRN robustness is analyzed by network efficiency, size of giant component, and the proposed TPRE model. This conclusion has practical significance for optimizing ARN structure and improving airspace efficiency.