Fuel and Emission Benefits for Continuous Descent Approaches at Schiphol

Master thesis (2016)

Authors

Contributors

J. Ellerbroek (mentor)
Department
Control and Operations (Aerospace Engineering) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2016 Inaad, M.
Benefits Continuous Descent Approach CDA Fuel BADA Emission
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Published Date

16-12-2016

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Faculty

Aerospace Engineering

Department

Control and Operations

Abstract

As the demand for air transportation increases, it becomes more and more challenging for the aviation industry to reduce its CO2 impact. This thesis presents the potential fuel and emission benefits of implementing continuous descent approaches (CDA) at Schiphol International Airport, from cruise altitude to the final approach fix, for a large scope of aircraft types. Using historical data from FMS and ADS-B, fuel-optimal CDAs are simulated using the total-energy model from BADA. By comparing the fuel consumption between the historical flight and the simulated CDA flight, fuel benefits are found. CO2 emissions are then calculated linearly from the fuel benefits. The results show average savings of 92 kg up to 500 kg of fuel per flight. For Schiphol, this results in a total of 39 million kg of fuel savings per year leading to more than 123 thousand tonnes of CO2 savings per year.