New Model for the Optimization of Runway Orientation

Abstract

One of the most significant factors that affects the location of airport elements is the optimum runway orientation. In this study, a new model called Calculation of Optimum Runway Orientation (CORO) is developed with an approach different from the previous related models. All models previously developed to solve the problem of optimum runway orientation are based on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) wind rose methodology. Alternatively, in the new model, the number of wind observations is used directly in the calculations without grouping wind velocities; the use of wind percentages is also excluded. The new model is written in CSharp (C#) programming language, which can be operated within a Windows environment. The proposed model is tested and compared to existing methods by using two different numerical examples to ascertain its accuracy and reliability. Since the errors arising from partial coverage problem and the FAA’s assumption defined in wind rose methodology are eliminated, it can be argued easily that it is possible to obtain more accurate results from the new model.