En-route sector capacity estimation methodologies: An international survey

Reliable estimation of en-route sector capacity is important, especially in high-density traffic areas where controller workload is the driver. En-route sector capacity is commonly estimated using fast-time computer simulation techniques employing models of controller workload. This paper analyses the methodologies employed by a number of countries in Europe and North America, to estimate the capacity of en-route airspace. The data used was obtained from airspace planners and managers. The survey involved interviews using pre-designed questionnaires. The results show that there are two main models used in the simulation of controller workload, and that there is considerable variation both in their application and controller involvement in the capacity estimation process.