Optimization of Strategic Airlift in-flight Refueling.
Abstract
During the 1980s increases in the potential use of Strategic Airlift to transport equipment and personnel is anticipated. The capabilities of Strategic Airlift aircraft are extended through the inclusion of efficient in-flight refueling. The primary objective of this research was to develop a method which determines the combination of in-flight refueling rendezvous point, takeoff fuel loads and tanker base which results in the minimum total fuel consumption for an airlifter and tanker aircraft. The experimental design included the creation of two models. An analytic flight planning model determined the optimal rendezvous point and the takeoff fuel loads for the aircraft in a specific mission scenario. A SLAM simulation model verified the operational feasibility of the results of the analytic model by simulating the flights of aircraft.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA101137
Entities
People
- John C. Marcotte Jr
- Vernon P. Bordelon Jr.
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology