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The current joint NASA-FAA simulator program, designed to study the problems anticipated in the integration of the supersonic transport (SST) into the air traffic control (ATC) system, is explained. The initial tests have consisted of simulated departure and arrival operations of a variable-sweep SST configuration in the New York terminal area under high-density traffic flow conditions with as many as six SST operations per hour. Several types of separation standards and handling concepts were investigated while using an ATC system based on present-day concepts and procedures. Results describing the operating problems for the SST and the workload, delay, and capacity problems for the ATC system are discussed.

Major in-service improvement programs in air traffic control are the high altitude area positive control expansion program and the terminal positive separation program. Both are in consonance with recommendations of the FAA Administrator's Task Force on air traffic control. The former will establish positive control in all U.S. airspace between 24,000 and 60,000 ft. A protoytpe terminal positive separation area will be established at Atlanta, Ga., in November 1962 to separate all aircraft within 15 miles of Atlanta between 2000 and 6000 ft. mean sea level. This will test the capability of the system to provide positive separation to all traffic operating within the designated airspace. This paper discusses the implementation of these systems.

The proper use of the nation's airspace involves a large complex system which must function as an integrated unit. This paper deals with future automation of the air traffic control subsystem of this larger airspace utilization system. A detailed description of the data processing and display equipment and functions is given. The equipment which will be installed in air traffic control facilities permits the separation of advance planning and active control of aircraft. Reliability is enhanced by the use of several independent channels between data acquisition elements and the controller's display. This approach results in a system which will “fail softly.”