A metroplex phenomenon is an interaction between two or more operations at closely-spaced airports.  Mosaic ATM is studying examples of metroplex phenomena to identify the types of interactions that occur and also the types of approaches currently used to manage those interactions.  A combination of traffic demand growth, Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) technologies and operational concepts, and increased utilization of regional airports is expected to increase the occurrence and severity of coupling between operations at proximate airports.  Without understanding the nature of metroplexes and developing solutions that provide efficient coordination of operations between closely-spaced airports, the use of NextGen technologies and distribution of demand to regional airports may provide little increase in the overall metroplex capacity. 

The project has several objectives.  First, we are developing a thorough understanding of the nature of metroplexes. We are providing a framework for discussing metroplexes by proposing and validating a definition and set of dimensions along which metroplexes may be measured. Two types of definitions are being advanced – a definition that supports metroplex management approaches but requires site-specific knowledge and a definition that quantifies metroplex phenomena from observable data with no initial site-specific knowledge.  We will estimate probable locations and characteristics of metroplexes in the NextGen timeframe and their dependence on various assumptions about changes in traffic volume, composition, and operational concepts.  Lastly, we will propose and study ideas for optimally and robustly managing metroplex operations in a manner that is coherent with other NextGen traffic management concepts.