The VV Development Team has been working on configuring VVsim to run Point Merge scenarios, a procedure developed by Eurocontrol that provides an efficient use of airspace, reduces controller workload and improves operational outcomes. In response to rising traffic levels, Point Merge is increasingly being adopted at aerodromes around the world.
Although the team encountered some challenges in adjusting aircraft trajectories to mimic real-world operations, the real difficulty will be ensuring that the simulation behaves as it should under the techniques and procedures used by controllers when working Point Merge. To assist with this, we will be reaching out to subject matter experts to help validate and refine the simulation. If you have operational experience with Point Merge procedures and would be interested in contributing to the project, please contact us.
The completed Point Merge module will extend the VVApproach course and will also be made available as a standalone package for end-users seeking to develop their understanding of the technique.
Above is a sped-up screen capture of a Point Merge exercise in generic airspace based on the Oslo TMA. The full-length scenario can be viewed below.
