ACRP IdeaHub Synthesis Topics

The objective of this research is to create a database of performance benchmarks for airport facilities. Airport staff need a better understanding of key operational metrics associated with building performance in order to improve efficiency, decrease operating costs, and reduce environmental impacts. A standard system which normalizes for weather, location, carbon intensity of utility supplied energy, and airport specific... more »

The objective of this research is to create a guidebook of Aircraft Characteristics. The first step is a synthesis that summarizes the data sources available for determining Aircraft Characteristics for airport planning, design, construction, and operation. The characteristics would include at a minimum Aircraft Approach Category (AAC), Airplane Design Group (ADG), Taxiway Design Group (TDG), wingspan, tail height, length,... more »

Identify how drones can be utilized as a tool for airport operations (inspections, maintenance, wildlife) and emergency response. Identify who is currently using them and what are the best practices for their use in an airport environment.

This topic was discussed for the FY2018 synthesis program and has been held over for further discussion at the FY2019 synthesis topic selection meeting.

John Pokryfke, jpokryfke@broward.org... more »

To compile data from various airports around the country about practices they use for airport credentialing. This would also include the setup and staffing of an airport credentialing office.

Airports have been using the Internet of Things to become more connected and offer enhanced customer service logistics as smart airports. This synthesis would document the state of the industry with regard to the application of smart airport technologies and lessons learned from current adopters.

Changes to the RCAM have impacted how and when airports remove contaminants on the runway and in turn has impacted the hours needed for personnel and equipment to remove contaminants as well as the useful life of markings and pavement surfaces.

Compile and contextualize lessons learned, including strengths and areas for improvement, identified by airports of all sizes from around the nation. These lessons learned, derived from documented after action reports and interviews with airport officials, will support industry-wide preparedness when collected and shared.

Perform economic, environmental and social benefits analysis of using plant based diet in airports and flights.
Industrial meat, poultry, and dairy production has a huge footprint of resource consumption--energy, water, and land. As a result the practice produces air, water and land pollution. The practice also causes human health related deceases.

A triple Bottom Line analysis of low carbon plant based food usage... more »

Airports, airlines and their emergency response partners can develop a culture of interagency coordination that promotes the regular sharing of airline, airport, and other emergency response plans and strategies. This can provide an opportunity for both airline and support staff and the airports to be familiar with individual corporate emergency response and family assistance plans in the event there is the need for a... more »

The objective of this research is to identify how airports can assist Federal and state law enforcement in combatting human trafficking. By supporting investigation and interdiction of human trafficking occurring in and around their facilities, airports can improve their security posture and the safety of the traveling public, as well as the diverse victims of this under-reported crime. Potential research products would... more »

The purpose of this synthesis is to compile research, reports, and practices related to state and local regulations, seaplane operation, policy issues, arguments for and against aircraft and motorboat usage, and sample regulations, practices or guidelines regarding invasive species control.

The synthesis will serve as a useful reference document for presenting data and informing policymakers, seaplane operators, regulators,... more »

FAA Airport Improvement Program, CFR Part 135 and 212 Certificate Holders Deicing Program and Airport Snow and Ice Control Plan or improved deicing efficiency and public safety for all cold climate Commercial Airports, Commercial/Military Airports of the United States.

This topic was uploaded to a topic submittal screen before IdeaHub was launched.

 

Henry Doyle, hdoyle@aviationsafetyresearch.org, ACI Committee Member and TRB Affiliate Member submitted this topic

The profession can benefit from a synthesis and assessment of practices applied at airports and elsewhere.

The Covid-19 Pandemic has had a more deleterious effect on the worldwide aviation system than anything that has come since the Wright Brothers first set wing to wind in the early 1900's, eclipsing even the impacts associated with the September 11th attacks in 2001. The governmental guidelines (in some municipalities, stated as requirements), for physical distancing (the now-infamous six-foot rule), may work manually and... more »