Cost-Effectiveness of the "Digital Air Traffic Controller"

Abstract: Our paper analyzes the economic cost-effectiveness of "Digital Air Traffic Controller" (Digital ATCO), an AI-supported system developed by the Project “Collaboration of aviation operators and AI systems” (LOKI) of the German Aerospace Center (DLR). In Europe, delays due to air traffic control constraints—particularly staffing shortages—impose annual costs of around €1.9 billion on airlines. Additionally, the annual employment costs for air traffic controllers reach approximately €2.9 billion. With air traffic on the rise, these costs are anticipated to grow further. Currently, two air traffic controllers work collaboratively to manage a sector. The Digital ATCO system aims to significantly reduce the workload of air traffic controllers. This innovation reduces staffing requirements, allowing reallocation of personnel to address shortages or build capacity where needed. Our findings indicate that the benefits of Digital ATCO are very likely to outweigh its costs, demonstrating strong potential for economic and operational efficiency in air traffic management.

Keywords: AI, Air Traffic Controller, Economic cost-effectiveness

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005894

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