Discrete Event Passenger Flow Simulation Model for an Airport Terminal Capacity Analysis

Abstract

This paper describes analysis of departure passenger flow in an airport terminal, from the passenger entrance to boarding; involving the development of simulation model. The basis for the simulation model was a snapshot of the passenger flow data taken during the summer periods from 2003 to 2004. Various data were collected and used to define the inputs to a simulation model. The next step was a statisti­cal analysis of the collected data. A discrete-event simulation model using simulation programming language General Purpose Simulation System (GPSS) was constructed. The performance of the system in the present and expected future was studied. The simulation model helped us to evaluate the passenger flow, identify the system bottlenecks as well as the system capacities. Critical aspects in the passanger flow through the airport terminal have been explored and studied. Recommendations based on the results of models runs were made.