Optimization of NAS Lemoore Scheduling to Support a Growing Aircraft Population
The manual process for flight scheduling at Naval Air Station Lemoore accommodates the needs of 16 fighter resident squadrons as well as constraints imposed by limited military operating area availability. Given the complexity of this problem, attempting to additionally avoid periods of high activity and resultant congestion would challenge the manual process. However, congestion leads to long wait times for flight-line services. Refueling operations are particularly costly when operational time is lost, and resources are backlogged. The problem of avoiding inefficient periods of high demand is complicated by the two types of refueling available: hot refueling, which occurs when the aircraft's engine is running, and cold refueling, which occurs when the aircraft is shut down. Achieving a balance between the two refueling methods is key to maximizing operational effectiveness. The authors discuss an optimization model designed to determine the best daily flight schedules based on the squadrons' flying and training requirements, the refueling infrastructure, and range availability.