Human-in-the-loop performance assessment of optimized descents with time Constraints. Results from full motion flight simulation and a flight testing campaign

TEMO (time and energy managed operations) is a new concept that aims to optimise continuous descent operations, while fulfilling with a very high accuracy controlled time of arrival (CTA) constraints at different metering fixes. This paper presents the results and main lessons learnt from two human-in- the-loop experiments that aimed to validate the TEMO trajectory planning and guidance algorithm: a full motion flight simulation experiment and a flight testing campaign. Positive results were obtained from the experiments, regarding the feasibility of the concept and acceptance from the pilots. TEMO descents typically showed lower fuel figures than conventional step-down descents. Moreover, RTA adherence at the initial approach fix (IAF) showed very good performance. Time accuracy at the runway threshold, however, did not fulfil the (very challenging) time target accuracies. Further work is needed to enhance the current algorithm once the aircraft is established on the instrument landing system glideslope.