Dubins-Based Trajectories: Enhancing Smart Air Traffic Management for Energy-Efficient Environments

This study presents an investigation into the use of Dubins trajectories for runway approach procedures and their 4D tracking by aircraft. The study proposes a method to generate a fictitious aircraft that will follow the Dubins trajectory, providing a 4D reference for real aircraft to follow. It explores an innovative approach for 4D trajectory tracking of aircraft in smart environments and energy-efficient settings, based on Dubins-based aircraft approximation trajectories. These trajectories offer optimal curves that connect specified positions while considering the aircraft's turning constraints. The study discusses the theoretical foundations of 4D trajectories and Dubins-based paths, presenting algorithms commonly used in aviation trajectory tracking. A review of existing approaches in the literature is provided, highlighting the limitations and opportunities for improvement. The study then details the proposed approach, emphasizing its potential to optimize aircraft trajectory tracking and reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Simulations and real-world data examples illustrate the efficiency of the approach. Furthermore, the study discusses potential applications in smart environments and energy management, emphasizing benefits such as improved air traffic management and enhanced energy efficiency. It concludes by outlining future research perspectives and challenges, emphasizing the need for integrating the approach into smart air traffic management systems while addressing operational complexities and ensuring data security.