ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents research at the interface between complexity science and air traffic management (ATM) to provide a useful resource to facilitate and inspire future work in this area. It introduces the field of complexity science as it relates to ATM, outlines the origins of the Complex World network and the diverse expertise of the participants. The book focuses on the application of complex systems analysis approaches developed in a range of disciplines to the study of the socio-technical air transport system. It provides telling examples from what is probably the most used European air traffic dataset and explores the growing use of big data and the associated challenges. The book highlights data science as a novel area deserving its own separate network initiatives and signals the importance of continued support from the European institutions.
