Unstable approach in aviation : using agent-based modelling to investigate interaction breakdown

Abstract

The aviation industry has seen vast improvements in its safety records over the last few decades. However, accidents in the landing phase of flight are still an area of concern for all stakeholders involved. Most notably, unstable approaches contribute approximately 14% to landing incidents and this can certainly be reduced due to their recoverable nature. This project investigates the decision-making processes of pilots and air traffic controllers and specifically, their mental models to identify the critical breakdown in this team interaction that will ultimately lead to unstable approach. An agent-based model will be used to simulate the interaction and provide insight into this natural phenomenon.