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Delta Optimizes Continuing-Qualification-Training Schedules for Pilots

Author

Listed:
  • Milind G. Sohoni

    (Operations Research, Department 709, A3 Building, Delta Technology Inc., 1001 International Blvd., Atlanta, Georgia 30354-1801)

  • T. Glenn Bailey

    (Operations Research, Department 709, A3 Building, Delta Technology Inc., 1001 International Blvd., Atlanta, Georgia 30354-1801)

  • Kristi G. Martin

    (Operations Research, Department 709, A3 Building, Delta Technology Inc., 1001 International Blvd., Atlanta, Georgia 30354-1801)

  • Helen Carter

    (Crew Resource Analysis, Department 021, Delta Air Lines Inc., Atlanta, Georgia 30320-6001)

  • Ellis L. Johnson

    (School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0205)

Abstract

Delta Air Lines periodically trains its cockpit crew members to maintain their flight qualifications. The negotiation of the new pilot working agreement (PWA) in June 2001 introduced a short and stringent planning cycle and a new training-pay structure that affects operating costs. The downturn in airline business after September 11, 2001 forced Delta to reduce its workforce and to modify its requirements for scheduling pilot training. To mitigate Delta's exposure to costs and to automate the scheduling process under a rigid planning time line, we developed and deployed an automated optimization system, CQOPT, that builds and assigns training schedules based on individual pilot's requirements. The primary objectives of CQOPT are to minimize overall operating costs and maximize training assignments. Shortly after CQOPT's deployment in May 2002, the planning cycle dropped from several days to a few hours. Delta expects to save $7.5 million in annual operating costs by using CQOPT to schedule continuing qualification (CQ) training for its pilots.

Suggested Citation

  • Milind G. Sohoni & T. Glenn Bailey & Kristi G. Martin & Helen Carter & Ellis L. Johnson, 2003. "Delta Optimizes Continuing-Qualification-Training Schedules for Pilots," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 33(5), pages 57-70, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:orinte:v:33:y:2003:i:5:p:57-70
    DOI: 10.1287/inte.33.5.57.19253
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jeffrey E. Dillon & Spyros Kontogiorgis, 1999. "US Airways Optimizes the Scheduling of Reserve Flight Crews," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 29(5), pages 123-131, October.
    2. Ioannis T. Christou & Armand Zakarian & Jun-Min Liu & Helen Carter, 1999. "A Two-Phase Genetic Algorithm for Large-Scale Bidline-Generation Problems at Delta Air Lines," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 29(5), pages 51-65, October.
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    4. Ranga Anbil & Eric Gelman & Bruce Patty & Rajan Tanga, 1991. "Recent Advances in Crew-Pairing Optimization at American Airlines," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 21(1), pages 62-74, February.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Patrick Hew, 2007. "ASP, The Art and Science of Practice: Direct Advisors vs. Tool Developers---Implications for Practice," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 37(3), pages 279-284, June.
    3. Kozanidis, George, 2017. "Optimal assignment of aircrew trainees to simulator and classroom training sessions subject to seniority and preference restrictions," Journal of Air Transport Management, Elsevier, vol. 59(C), pages 143-154.

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