Flight testing of a prototype Cockpit Display of Traffic Information for approach spacing applications

Rockwell Collins participated in the operational evaluation of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and Cockpit Display of Traffic Information (CDTI) applications sponsored by the Cargo Airline Association (CAA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safe Flight 21 Program Office. The evaluation was held in the Louisville, Kentucky area Oct. 26-30, 2000. The goal of the operational evaluation was to help to validate concepts to enhance aircraft surveillance, separation assurance and situational awareness, as well as evolve the interface between aircraft and Air Traffic Control (ATC) under CNS/ATM initiatives. In addition to participating in the evaluation of advanced operational procedures, Rockwell Collins evaluated prototype implementations of CDTI formats and an advanced approach spacing tool. The advanced approach spacing tool is expected to improve the efficiency of landing operations by achieving more consistent arrival intervals. The company also evaluated the Departure Spacing/Clearance Operation, which has the potential to improve takeoff operations. Rockwell Collins flew its Sabreliner test aircraft equipped with a modified ATC transponder to transmit ADS-B signals in the 1090 MHz band and a modified Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) to receive the ADS-B signals from other participating aircraft. Aircraft information transmitted over the ADS-B link was generated by a Collins GPS receiver. The company also modified the Sabreliner´s cockpit to include a prototype CDTI, integrated with Air Transport class 8×8-inch liquid crystal Navigation and Primary Flight Displays. Results are reported regarding the human factors aspects of the operational concepts and use of the prototype formats