Wake vortex prediction and detection utilising advanced fusion filter technologies

Abstract As a consequence of its aerodynamic lift, each aircraft is generating wake vortices that can become a serious hazard for the succeeding aircraft and in the worst case lead to loss of control. Separation standards were introduced to prevent dangerous wake encounters that have proven sufficiently safe but also very conservative, thus limiting airspace and airport capacity. The objective of contemporary wake vortex research is regaining capacity in favourable atmospheric conditions, at the same time preserving or even improving the current safety level. The wake vortex advisory systems developed for this purpose are nearing experimental implementation and all include a forecasting component and additional online detection sensors, with both elements having their benefits and limitations. The wake vortex research objectives at the Institute of Flight Guidance (IFF) of the Technische Universitaet Braunschweig focus on a close coupling approach between model predictions and sensor measurements. Using the complementary capabilities of each, the aim of improved performance of the overall system shall be reached. After giving a short overview on the wake vortex phenomenon and current approaches to wake vortex alerting and advisory systems, this paper will introduce the fusion concept. The benefits of this approach will be demonstrated by means of examples. An outlook on further development and envisaged advanced implementation concepts will be given.