The Dynamics of Air Transportation System Transition

Abstract

Both U.S. and European Air Transportation Systems face substantial challenges in transforming to meet future demand. This paper uses a feedback model to identify and describe key issues in the dynamics of system transition, with particular emphasis on stakeholder cost-benefit dynamics and processes for reviewing and implementing new system capabilities. Understanding of these dynamics is further reinforced through discussion of ADS-B and new runway construction examples. To implement the significant changes currently envisioned for ATM systems, it will be critical to structure system changes to anticipate and overcome stakeholder disagreements and improve the efficiency of the approval and implementation processes.