Interactive dynamic aircraft scheduling and fleet routing with the out-of-kilter algorithm

Abstract

A decision support system is introduced that automates dynamic aircraft scheduling and fleet routing. Interactive graphics-based schedule construction and modification tools automate the dynamic scheduling of aircraft of a single-type aircraft fleet and the out-of-kilter algorithm is employed to automate their routing. With the out-of-kilter algorithm, either the minimum fleet size required to serve a complete schedule or the routes that aircraft of a fleet of fixed size should serve in order to maximize fleet income can be determined. Since many scheduling scenarios can be easily constructed and evaluated, fleet routing solutions that achieve planning goals, while satisfying organizational constraints, can be quickly obtained. As a result, significant improvements in aircraft scheduling and fleet routing productivity and quality are possible.