The Point Merge Arrival Flow Integration Technique: Towards More Complex Environments and Advanced Continuous Descent

This paper reports on a recent series of simulation s on Point Merge, a new method for merging arrival flows with existing technology. The paper shows how Point Merge can be adapted to typical terminal area configurations wit h benefits in terms of staffing (standardisation of working methods), predictability (extensive use of lateral flight management system guidance) and environment (advanced continuous descent), even under high traffic load. These investigations contributed to demonstrate the intrinsic flexibility and scalability properties of Point Merge. They paved t he way to the implementation in the short term to three real environments. The paper shows also how Point Merge can be seen as a “building block” for queue management, and a sound basis towards 4D trajectory management.