Long Short-Term Memory Network Based Trajectory Prediction Incorporating Air Traffic Dynamics

Abstract

Accurate 4D trajectory predictions are required for the implementation of Trajectory Based Operations. In addition, decentralized, free routing can make medium- to long-term flight trajectories more difficult to predict. Novel trajectory prediction techniques are needed, independent of waypoint-to-waypoint navigation and air traffic control operator behaviour. This research aims to improve the accuracy of medium- to long-term 4D flight trajectory predictions by incorporating a model that encompasses the dynamics of the air traffic situation. Data-driven techniques are well-suited to trajectory prediction purposes as high-fidelity air traffic and environmental data are widely available. A statistical analysis is first conducted to select the most suitable air traffic dynamics features for trajectory prediction purposes. The selected air traffic dynamics features are then translated to a spatiotemporal map. This paper proposes a composite, deep neural network to predict individual trajectories, merging a LSTM network with a 2D Convolutional LSTM based network.