Published Report (DOT/FAA/CT-94-36)

MULTIPLE PARALLEL APPROACH PROGRAM TECHNICAL WORK GROUP
(MPAP TWG) OPERATIONAL ASSESSMENT
The simulation of simultaneous approaches to the proposed
triple parallel runway configuration at the new Denver
International Airport (DIA) was conducted at the Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) Technical Center, Atlantic
City International Airport, New Jersey, from November 18-20,
1992, and November 30-December 17, 1992. The goals were to
demonstrate the safety and feasibility of conducting triple
simultaneous instrument landing system (ILS) operations to
triple parallel runways.
The simulation included approximately 11,800 ILS approaches
in which two conflicts resulted in less than a 500-foot (ft)
slant range distance. A total of 705 conflicts of 30-degree
turns generated into flight simulators involved
incommunicado blundering aircraft. One hundred eighty-six
of these 705 conflicts were llat risk" if the controller did
not intervene. Detailed evaluation was conducted on the two
situations which resulted in 500 ft or less slant range
distance. The closest point of approach was computed to
have a 187-ft slant range distance.
Based on the established test criteria, the controllers met
the simulation objective. The arrival monitor positions in
the simulation proved to be operationally effective and
feasible.
The test controllers participated in the simulation as
though they were controlling live traffic. Their attention
and dedication was critical to the success of the
simulation.
Based upon the results of the simulation, the TWG believes
that the proposed triple simultaneous ILS approaches at DIA
are acceptable, achievable, and safe with the final monitor
aid (FMA) system and an appropriate radar system, such as a
Mode S monopulse system or an ASR-9 radar system enhanced to
provide improved target resolution capabilities.
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