Introduction to Terminal Area Route Generation, Evaluation, and Traffic Simulation (TARGETS)

Introduction

The TARGETS software application is a tool that offers a unique combination of capabilities for area navigation (RNAV) procedure design, flyability assessment, and air traffic service provider and operator evaluation. Developed by The MITRE Corporation’s Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (CAASD) under sponsorship of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the tool is being used by several facilities and multiple regions within the United States to design RNAV arrival and departure procedures. The visualization features of TARGETS and its readily accessible design tools enable specialists to rapidly and easily design RNAV procedures for the terminal environment. The integrated design capabilities of TARGETS enable quick assessment of alternative design concepts, leading to robust solutions that satisfy operational needs and constraints. Using TARGETS significantly reduces the time necessary to capture requirements and expedites the overall design process. The data export capabilities of TARGETS seamlessly integrate with standard office applications making it easy to prepare presentations or document procedure design. The data output of TARGETS is formatted to support operational, certification, and charting needs.

Course Rationale

Development of RNAV procedures has become a high priority for the FAA due to the potential for reducing controller and pilot workload. Additionally, the repeatability and predictability of RNAV flight paths may provide justification for the application of reduced separation minimums, thus increasing the overall capacity of the National Airspace System (NAS). Use of the TARGETS tool enhances the ability of the procedure designer to produce accurate and consistent results in a short period of time. Familiarity with TARGETS and its application will enhance understanding of the FAA RNAV procedure design process.

Course Description

This two and one-half day course introduces the student to TARGETS procedure design application. TARGETS software is being used by the FAA to design terminal area RNAV arrival and departure procedures at several facilities. TARGETS offers a dynamic combination of capabilities for RNAV procedure design, flyability assessment and air traffic control/operator assessment through simulation. The course consists of in-depth examples of TARGETS applications and interactive laboratory exercises. Each participant will obtain hands-on experience using TARGETS.

Cost:

Two and a half Day Course: $1,300

FAA employees will be invoiced upon completion of the course. The above-listed cost may be used as an estimate.

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