As the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) evolves in tandem with air travel demand, new and innovative technologies, methods, and models are needed to support Air Traffic Management while ensuring that safety is not compromised. Improved and integrated Traffic Flow Management (TFM) initiatives must be developed and designed to efficiently redirect air traffic flows and respond to probabilistic weather forecasts and rapidly changing conditions. Multiple and inter-related optimization objectives must be integrated and blended into consistent and equitable strategic plans for all National Airspace System (NAS) users given a diverse set of equipage, market share served, and level of early planning participation.

The Air Flow Management Division applies information technology (IT) and operations research disciplines to enhance the capacity, safety, and security of the National Airspace System (NAS). The Division develops concepts and designs automated decision-support tools that provide solutions to existing and anticipated traffic flow issues. A key component of this work is developing and maintaining technologies that enhance the operational capabilities of existing air traffic management systems and procedures. The Division provides the system connectivity resources necessary to continuously support these applications, many of which are housed within the Volpe Center's NextGen Innovation Center. Through Inter-Agency Agreements, the Division provides support to the Federal Aviation Administration, United States Air Force, and other government entities.