Research network strategic monitoring tool

R-NEST is a EUROCONTROL model-based simulation tool dedicated to research activities for evaluating advanced ATM concepts. Sharing the same base as the NEST tool (NM operational tool for capacity planning), R-NEST is a stand-alone desktop application combining dynamic ATFCM simulation capabilities with powerful airspace design and capacity planning analysis functionalities.

R-NEST offers an intuitive, planner-orientated interface with a low barrier to entry for new users. It is a powerful scenario-based modelling engine, capable of running a broad range of complex, operationally relevant analyses and optimisation functionalities.

R-NEST can be used to emulate Area Control Centres (ACC) or airports for strategic planning and network level assessment. R-NEST can process and consolidate large quantities of data spanning multiple years, but makes it possible to drill down into the details by analysing and observing 10-minute periods of data.

R-NEST dynamically simulates network operations and allows the detection and observation of delays that characterise the degradation of network performance.

R-NEST is able to capture:

• ATFCM delays, thanks to an emulation of the CASA (Computer Assisted Slot Allocation) algorithm used by the Network Manager to respond to network constraints and an integrated STAM (Short Term ATFCM Measures) model developed following the guidance of the SESAR concept.
• Non-ATFCM delays, mostly generated by internal ATM network disturbances. These delays can result from various causes, e.g. handling, passengers or baggage problems. (source: EUROCONTROL/CODA)
• Reactionary delays, incurred by delays affecting previous flights using the same aircraft. It is through reactionary delays that problems at one airport propagate through the network.

R-NEST can propose an optimum operational opening scheme according to controller availability, sector configurations and sector or traffic volume capacities. The model balances working time and overloads, based on a customisable optimisation strategy.

R-NEST automatically calculates the period and capacity required to smooth detected overloads. The model can be customised to mimic operational behaviours.

R-NEST can calculate 4D flight trajectories for a given route network, taking into account aircraft performance data, route restrictions and flight level constraints, SID & STAR and military area opening times. The traffic can be distributed via shortest, cheapest (minimising route charges) or optimum (minimising overloads) routes.

R-NEST can generate future traffic samples using traffic growth forecasts provided by STATFOR. Airport capacities and curfews can be used to constrain traffic growth.

R-NEST is able to measure at Network level the improvements generated by the local implementation of a new ATM concept.

R-NEST offers an evaluation of global indicators including route length extension for flight efficiency, fuel consumption, ATFCM/Non-ATFCM delays, CO₂ and NO_x emissions.

R-NEST can process large quantities of data spanning multiple years. A strategic view allows users to detect trends or carry out detailed analysis.

R-NEST is provided with ready-to-use study templates and can automate frequently-used tasks and dynamically create new data-computing activities.

All analysis data from R-NEST can be exported in the form of customised reports, which can also be fed into external tools or templates for further analysis.