A multi-paradigm approach to system dynamics modeling of intercity transportation

•Both micro- and macro-level views are essential for complex systems research.•A classification is formulated to guide efforts in integrating both views.•A new hybrid approach is developed for multimodal inter-city travel demand.•The model is validated and replicates historical trend of aviation demand.•Demand sensitivity to socioeconomics match showing the congruity of ABM and SD.

The complexity of the transportation system calls for a holistic solution approach that employs multiple modeling paradigms such as agent-based modeling and system dynamics. Various techniques for combining these paradigms are explored and logically classified, which helps guide hybrid modeling. A system dynamics model for multimodal intercity transportation is created, which integrates socioeconomic factors, mode performance, aggregated demand and capacity. The model is calibrated against a set of data points from an existing agent-based model. An effective inheritance of the proven predictive power of the agent-based model is demonstrated by reproducing the historic aviation demand with sufficient accuracy.