EATS: An agent-based air traffic simulator

Abstract

We present an Experimental Air Traffic Simulator (EATS) implemented as a Multi-Agent System to run on a JADE framework. The EATS is conceived as a tool for preliminary evaluation of algorithms, flight procedures and man-machine interfaces to be used in future Navigation and Air Traffic surrounding the new Communication, Navigation and Surveillance System to Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM). The EATS simulator provides realistic data for the aircraft dynamic and includes the exchange of information among the aircraft from the point of view of the Air Traffic Control (ATC). It also takes into account the meteorological and terrain conditions. The architecture of this system facilitates its later extension to incorporate and to evaluate new communication protocols and negotiation between the agents that fly in a specific air space.