Computerized logistics and ERP system in air freight transport: a multitype crew scheduling optimization model by considering human resource constraints

The increase in air freight demands brings significant pressure and challenges to airport operation. The development of computerized logistics and ERP system has potential ability to improve the air freight transport efficiency, where the intelligent crew scheduling is an important component in the system. To this end, this study focuses on the apron freight support crew scheduling problem in flight peak periods, and develop a multi-type apron freight support crew scheduling optimization model by considering human resource constraints. The objective of the model is to maximize the flight pairs that can be served under the given limited human resources. The constraints of the model consider the flight operation rules and ensure that the flight pairs can be served without delay. In addition, a numerical case study is provided to demonstrate the proposed optimization model. The results indicate that, it is necessary to investigate the multi-type apron freight support crew scheduling optimization model that considers human resource constraints, in which a 20% reduction in available size of apron freight support crew would result in 8.3% of flight pairs being unable to be serviced. The research results can provide decision-making support for crew scheduling in air freight transport and other transportation systems.