Reduced-Engine Taxi: A Cost-Savings Exploration
Abstract
Reduced-engine taxi procedures are a tactical issue with operational and strategic level impacts. In the execution of Rapid Global Mobility, the MAFs reliance on energy makes it particularly vulnerable to shifts and adaptations in the energy market. This dependence underpins the criticality of research exploiting margins for energy savings and optimization. This research explores the viability of C-17 reduced-engine taxi procedures from a cost-savings and capability perspective. This study models expected engine fuel flow based on number of operational engines, aircraft gross weight, and average aircraft groundspeed. Using this model, the research executes a cost-savings simulation estimating the expected annual savings produced by the proposed taxi methodology. Finally, this research proposes an optimal taxi policy model which prescribes either a two-engine or four-engine taxi methodology based on aircraft gross weight and minimization of excessive jet blast. The results indicate that significant fuel and costs savings are available via the employment of reduced-engine taxi procedures. On an annual basis, the MAF has the capacity to save approximately 1,178,590 gallons of jet fuel ($2,663,613 in fuel costs) without adding significant risk to operations. The two engine taxi methodology has the ability to generate capable taxi thrust for a maximum gross weight C- 17. This research recommends coordination with Boeing to rework checklists and flight manuals, installation of a fleet-wide training program, and evaluation of future aircraft recapitalization requirements intended to exploit and maximize savings during aircraft surface operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 15, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1055442
Entities
People
- Michael W. Wells
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology