Theoretical Model for Determination of Airspace Capacity

Abstract

In the last decade, the constant air traffic growth has brought certain problems as well. While aircraft production and airline functioning are being stimulated by the competition, the situation in air traffic control and in infrastructure component is completely different. Air traffic management (ATM) is still owned by the state. The state, however, is known for the fact of not being a good manager and is solving problems slowly and not efficiently because of its large administration. There is a very strong trade union movement functioning in ATM system, which makes several rational decisions impossible. Critics of the current ATM system in Europe warn of increasing problems-delays and operational expenses. The control component is the only one among the four components of air traffic, which has not been liberalised and harmonised yet. There is no competition in the fields of air traffic. All matters are taken care of by CAA or by semi-private companies, owned by the state. According to air carriers which have to put in 4-9% of business expenses into terminal-and over-flights charges, these expenses are far too heavy a burden.