Geometric Trajectory Optimization for TRACON Arrivals: An NLP Approach with ATC Vectoring Maneuver Modeling

TL;DR

This paper presents a high-fidelity NLP-based trajectory optimization framework for TRACON arrivals that explicitly models controller vectoring maneuvers to improve terminal airspace efficiency.

Contribution

It introduces a nonlinear programming model that incorporates geometric constraints and controller maneuvers for realistic and feasible arrival trajectory planning.

Findings

Monte Carlo simulations show minimal separation violations below capacity.

The model effectively generates feasible trajectories aligned with controller practices.

Path stretching reduces separation violations at high arrival rates.

Abstract

Terminal airspace congestion remains a major bottleneck in the global air traffic network. Although the Aircraft Sequencing and Scheduling Problem (ASSP) has been widely studied, many methods rely on simplified node-link abstractions that ignore the practical flight path, producing schedules that can be hard to execute under real airspace geometric constraints. This paper introduces a high-fidelity trajectory optimization framework for Terminal Arrival Sequencing and Scheduling (TASS) that explicitly models controller vectoring maneuvers. We formulate a single-stage nonlinear programming (NLP) model with a weighted objective function that optimizes Baseleg path extension and segment-wise speed profiles for arriving aircraft. The model enforces nonlinear geometric coupling between Baseleg extensions and the required Radius-to-Fix (RF) turn for Final Approach Fix (FAF) intercept through closed-form expressions. Under the First-Come-First-Served (FCFS) rule, it generates separated, operationally feasible trajectories aligned with controller practice. Monte Carlo simulations with ample runs on the A80 TRACON in Atlanta demonstrate minimal separation violations below the runway capacity threshold through tactical path stretching, with violations occurring only when arrival rates exceed the maximum tolerable rate.