ACRP IdeaHub Research Projects

This research would examine several examples where implementation of Metroplex or other procedures has resulted in widespread increased community complaints and would explore options for redesigning those flight tracks to reduce noise concentrations over noise sensitive areas while satisfying project design goals and constraints. Changes in aircraft noise exposure, fuel consumption, and air emissions would be quantified... more »

Develop a simplified airport emissions inventory tool for criteria pollutants.

The proposed research project would evaluate carbon removal strategies that could be deployed at airports to help achieve "Net Zero Emissions" in order to align with global emission reduction targets and to address increasing public scrutiny. Carbon removal strategies include both natural (e.g., tree plantings and agricultural soil management) and technological approaches (e.g., carbon-absorbing concrete and direct air... more »

Conduct research on airport noise and emissions regulations,

requirements, programs in place at U.S. airports, including the impetus

for each, legal authority and impact.

We propose an ACRP guidebook and associated tools to help airports plan and implement EV charging stations. Specific topics of the guidebook could include: station siting, codes and standards, costs and benefits, pricing electricity use, payment systems, future-proofing investments, ADA requirements, signage, and incorporation with airport emission goals and airport master plan.

To develop carbon offset methodologies for both commercial and general aviation airports that generate revenue.

Develop emissions factors for air pollutants emitted from aircraft auxiliary power units for a larger set of APUs than are currently in AEDT.

The objective is to update the guidance and software for calculating airport construction emissions in order to:

• Incorporate the latest construction practices and regulatory requirements.

• Calculate emissions through the latest version of MOVES.

• Integrate applicable modifications to ACRP Report 102 and the Airport Construction Emissions Inventory Tool (ACEIT)

Develop a spreadsheet tool and user guidebook for airports to quantify the non-energy benefits of SAJF in their region, to enable more accurate and comprehensive benefit-cost analysis for investment and policy decision-making.

Airports can play a meaningful role advancing the Sustainable Alternative Jet Fuel (SAJF) adoption. One key area is understanding SAJF infrastructure needs. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has demonstrated leadership along with partners Alaska Airlines and Boeing by pursuing an "Aviation Biofuels Infrastructure Feasibility Study." In 2018, San Francisco International Airport is poised to issue an RFP to identify... more »

Produce a guidebook to provide a thorough overview of the emerging commercial space market and its implications for air traffic and airports. The research should include launch and reentry operations and cover emerging markets such as commercial crew operations to the International Space Station, space tourism, and fast point-to-point travel. The guidebook should address integrating flight operations with existing air... more »

Development of a microgrid standard framework (Technical, Financial, Regulatory, Permitting) solution which can apply to all airports across the country. Due to the complexity of the airports' operation and numbers of stakeholders and decision-makers, this comprehensive solution has not been developed.

This research seeks to compile available research on per- and polyfluoroalklyl substances (PFAS) air emissions at airport facilities and provide a better understanding of potential concerns related to PFAS release and exposure during aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) activities. As fluorine-free firefighting foams are being developed, it is also important to understand air emissions during use of these new alternatives.... more »

Install and operate a low cost remote tower solution using COTS/FAA approved radar only FOD detection solution (currently in operation at Heathrow) combined with an optical aircraft tail number/aircraft counter system/situational awareness system.