Real-Time Data Link of Aircraft Parameters to the
Center-TRACON Automation System (CTAS)

R. A. Coppenbarger
NASA Ames Research Center
Moffett Field, CA 94035

G. Kanning
NASA Ames Research Center
Moffett Field, CA 94035

R. Salcido
Raytheon Technical Services Co.

Abstract

Modern, strategic Air Traffic Control (ATC) decision
support tools are highly dependent upon accurate
predictions of four-dimensional (4-D) aircraft
trajectories. The accuracy of these trajectory
predictions is a function of the availability of
aircraft state, atmospheric state, and flight intent
data. Research efforts in the U.S and Europe are
exploring the feasibility of air-to-ground data
link as a means for delivering flight-specific aircraft
parameters to ATC decision-support tools. This paper
describes the preliminary results from a field test
involving the automatic data link of aircraft parameters
to the Center-TRACON Automation System (CTAS) at NASA
Ames Research Center. In support of this investigation,
data were collected from over 1,000 United Airlines
flights of Boeing-777 aircraft operating within the
Denver Air-Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC).
The aircraft parameters and system for acquiring them
are first described, followed by an assessment of the
impact of these data on en-route CTAS trajectory
predictions. Although this study exploits current-day
infrastructure for generating, delivering, and processing
air-to-ground data, it is intended to support the
generation of requirements for future data link systems
and services.