Terminal Chaos

Terminal ChaosGeorge L. Donohue and Russell D. Shaver withEric Edwards

ProblemCommercial flying in the U.S. is an abysmal experienceThe situation is getting worseFailure to fix the system will severely hurt our economy

ProblemDelays at most major U.S. airports are TEN times larger than those at European airportsEuropean airports move 30% more passengers through vs. U.S.

Why?Airlines overschedule flights DelaysHigh load factorsMore delays (no where to put passengers if cancelled)

Why?Air Traffic Controller union resistant to any changePolitically powerfulSlow adoption of new technologyAirport competitionAirport authorities focused on local bottom line, NOT system efficiency.

Why?General Aviation May exceed number of airliners under ATC controlPay fraction of ATM operating costsU.S. publicAccept the system as it isNo collective demands for change

Case StudiesAir Traffic Controller union (NATCA) attempted to reject automation project because of QWERTY keyboardsFAA/airline collaborative efforts have caused transfer of control to airlines

SolutionsCapacity increaseAirports physically limited and local populations resistant to expansionAirlines must upgauge:Larger more fuel efficient aircraftDecrease number of flights

SolutionsPrivate sector ATC servicesUPS, Fedex prime examples that companies can:Equip fleets with next generation avionicsIncrease airport efficiency Manage advanced transportation systems

Solutions30% Solution30% reduction in flight frequency & 30% increase in aircraft size should:Meet expected demand increasesUtilize 80-90% maximum throughput capacities

SolutionsGovernment ActionPublication of passenger quality of service (QOS) metricCongestion pricing for landing slotsPassenger Bill of Rights

SolutionsPublic ActionDemands for change!