Time-Based Metering Simulation Environment

Time-Based Flow Metering (TBFM), which will eventually replace the FAA’s existing TMA system, schedules aircraft to en route trajectory points which then creates a more efficient scheduling of aircraft and thus more efficient use of airspace capacity.  Recognizing the importance of TBFM to the NextGen program, Metron Aviation was asked to simulate time-based metering within the Integrated Simulation Environment (ISE).  Metron Aviation is expanding its existing simulation capabilities to include the future TBFM program. This includes the incorporation of NASA’s Future ATM Concepts Evaluation Tool (FACET) into Metron Aviation’s Jupiter Simulation Environment (JSE), improvements to the existing JSE trajectory modeling, changes to JSE’s TFMS emulator, and development of a new user interface for defining Time-Based Metering (TBM) initiatives. This project will allow the FAA to quickly analyze the impact of TBFM and the impact of new features under consideration for the TBFM program.  Additionally, this project will allow more detailed analysis of the interaction between TBFM and existing TFMS programs such as Ground Delay Programs (GDPs) and Airspace Flow Programs (AFPs).