Flight Path Optimization with Optimal Control Method

TL;DR

The paper addresses flight-path optimization under wind disturbances by formulating a Constrained Finite Time Optimal Control (CFTOC) problem for a 2D point-mass aircraft model. It constructs a wind model from RAP/NCEP forecasts using polynomial fits and discretizes the CFTOC into a nonlinear program solved with IPOPT, evaluating ORD→SFO trajectories. Results show wind-aware optimization produces trajectories closer to real flight paths and reveals trade-offs between travel time and fuel use, though global optimality is not guaranteed due to nonconvexity and solver sensitivity. Overall, the work demonstrates CFTOC's viability for nonlinear, large-scale flight-path optimization and identifies challenges in solver robustness and model fidelity for practical deployment.

Abstract

This paper is based on a crucial issue in the aviation world: how to optimize the trajectory and controls given to the aircraft in order to optimize flight time and fuel consumption. This study aims to provide elements of a response to this problem and to define, under certain simplifying assumptions, an optimal response, using Constrained Finite Time Optimal Control(CFTOC). The first step is to define the dynamic model of the aircraft in accordance with the controllable inputs and wind disturbances. Then we will identify a precise objective in terms of optimization and implement an optimization program to solve it under the circumstances of simulated real flight situation. Finally, the optimization result is validated and discussed by different scenarios.

Figures (9)

• Figure 1: Actual Flight Tracks from ORD to SFO
• Figure 2: Vector field generated with the raw wind data collected on 07/02/13 at 00:00.
• Figure 3: Actual wind force distribution in u direction
• Figure 4: Approximate function in u direction
• Figure 5: Actual wind force distribution in v direction