Modeling Aircraft Gate Utilization

In this paper, two computer models are developed with MATLAB and ITHINK software packages: Baseline Aircraft Gate Model (BAGM) and Aircraft Gate Optimization and Requirements Model (AGORM). These models will be a sophisticated, real-time resource allocation system that supports the allocation and management of aircraft gate resources. The models will be designed to analyze a single day scheduling system and as a resource planning tool to formulate short- to long-term improvements. The scalable nature of the product and the flexibility of this program make it an ideal solution for assessing gate utilization at an airport of any size. The principal objective of this research effort is the development of a computer program to model the utilization of aircraft parking positions (gates and remote stands) at airports and to develop related utilization and operating data. Ultimately, this program could be deployed as decision support systems to aid airport and airline personnel.