Air Transportation and Multimodal, Collaborative Decision Making during Adverse Events

Abstract : This paper makes the case for multimodal Collaborative Decision Making (CDM) during adverse events. Two case studies, the Asiana Crash in the US, and an hypothetical closure of London Heathrow airport in Europe, demonstrate that multimodal alternatives to reaccommodate passengers impacted by diversions and cancellations, have the potential to significantly decrease passenger delay at effective costs. Based upon additional evidence and interviews conducted a preliminary study sponsored by the EU, a multimodal CDM concept is elaborated, defining milestones and information flows to support harmonized decision-making and passenger treatment, and ensure a faster recovery process from a passenger standpoint.