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Class Scheduling for Pilot Training

Author

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  • Xiangtong Qi

    (Department of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong)

  • Jonathan F. Bard

    (Graduate Program in Operations Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712-1063)

  • Gang Yu

    (Department of Management Science and Information Systems, Red McCombs School of Business, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712)

Abstract

In this paper, we study the class scheduling problem at the training center of Continental Airlines. When pilots get new assignments, they must be retrained for up to eight consecutive weeks. During that time, they are removed from the roster, and thus impose a significant cost on the airlines. We formulate the problem with the objective of minimizing the total weighted length of all classes. Solutions are obtained with a branch-and-bound algorithm and a family of heuristics based on the idea of a rolling horizon. A series of computational experiments is performed to evaluate the algorithms. The results indicate that it is possible to obtain near-optimal solutions within acceptable time limits. The algorithms have been implemented and are now in use at Continental.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiangtong Qi & Jonathan F. Bard & Gang Yu, 2004. "Class Scheduling for Pilot Training," Operations Research, INFORMS, vol. 52(1), pages 148-162, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:oropre:v:52:y:2004:i:1:p:148-162
    DOI: 10.1287/opre.1030.0076
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    Cited by:

    1. Gang Yu & Julian Pachon & Benjamin Thengvall & Darryal Chandler & Al Wilson, 2004. "Optimizing Pilot Planning and Training for Continental Airlines," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 34(4), pages 253-264, August.
    2. Lixin Tang & Ren Zhao & Jiyin Liu, 2012. "Models and algorithms for shuffling problems in steel plants," Naval Research Logistics (NRL), John Wiley & Sons, vol. 59(7), pages 502-524, October.
    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.
    4. Rajendran, Suchithra & Srinivas, Sharan, 2020. "Air taxi service for urban mobility: A critical review of recent developments, future challenges, and opportunities," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 143(C).

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