Capacity and Workload Effects of Integrating a Cargo Drone in the Airport Approach

Within the project ALAADy (Automated Low Altitude Air Delivery) several options for start and destination of a cargo transport mission are discussed. One option in the concept study is the integration of larger transport drones in regular airport operations. In this case, integration of the vehicle in air space class B, C, or D (depending on the country) is required. The feasibility of this option was evaluated at the Air Traffic Validation Center at DLR (German Aerospace Center). As an example, the approach sector of Dusseldorf airport (EDDL) was simulated with different arrival traffic flows with and without a drone included. In a Human in the Loop (HITL) simulation the test persons controlled the air traffic in the sector according to ICAO rules assuring separation between all aircraft (including the drone) at any time. The resulting traffic flow with and without drone was compared to analyze the capacity effects of that vehicle. In addition, the test persons performed a questionnaire asking for workload and situational awareness. Based on the information gained by the analysis and the questionnaire, possible operational improvements were developed.