Cloud Computing for Air Traffic Management - Cost/Benefit Analysis

A study of recent developments in the field of cloud computing indicates that, while challenges exist, with the proper alignment of technical and investment decisions, transitioning of Air Traffic Management functions to the cloud computing environment can be achieved much sooner than one would perceive, and that the transition is already happening for applications in air transportation. This paper demonstrates a framework for transitioning Air Traffic Management functions to cloud computing, for cost savings, and gains in performance and efficiency. An application modeled after a dynamic flow management system was used in a case study to identify required system changes and the associated cost. An analysis of the operating cost of the application revealed that significant savings can be achieved through this transition, along with the ability to benefit future upgrades and developments.