Optimization of Push Back Time Windows That Ensure Conflict Free Ramp Area Aircraft Trajectories

The scheduling and execution of ramp area operations is a challenging task. Unlike aircraft maneuvers on taxiways, ramp area aircraft maneuvers are typically not confined to well-defined trajectories. The stochastic nature can force ramp area aircraft to slow down or stop along routes to the taxiway spot to avoid a loss of separation. To address this, we provide a tool for ramp controllers to help meet the assigned taxiway spot times. We formulate a mixed integer linear program model to compute the optimal push back windows that ensure conflict free trajectories. Initiating the push back within the optimal window ensures each departing aircraft can proceed along the route to the taxiway spot without having to slow down or stop for other traffic.