This draft chapter evaluates alternative measures to address growing aircraft delays caused by airspace interactions between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) and Boeing Field, which are projected to worsen significantly from 1990 through 2000. The measures examined include improved air traffic control (ATC) technology, airport facility improvements such as a new runway and reliever airports, and demand management strategies like flight quotas and peak-period surcharges. The chapter emphasizes that, despite delays not being critical until around 1990, immediate planning and commitment from various agencies is necessary given the lengthy implementation timelines involved.Open full document
Notes
Chapter 7 of a draft study evaluating alternative measures to reduce aircraft delays resulting from airspace interactions between Sea-Tac Airport and Boeing Field. Topics include improved ATC technology, reduced aircraft separations, Microwave Landing System (MLS) instrument approaches, new Runway 13-31 at Sea-Tac, reliever airports, IFR quotas, IFR peak period surcharges, and cooperative rescheduling of flights. Analysis covers effect on airfield and airspace capacity, aircraft delay, cost of implementation, and feasibility. Document is labeled ‘Working Draft for Discussion Purposes Only’ and references the 1982 National Airspace System Plan.