The Virtual Block Control concept makes use of Virtual Stop Bar positions on a controller display and aims at reducing the size of control blocks that are used under low visibility conditions to achieve sufficient spacing between taxiing aircraft. Within the SESAR Programme, Virtual Block Control was chosen as an operational concept for improving weather resilience at airports as part of the conceptual step towards time-based operations. Concept feasibility and expected performance were validated on the NARSIM-Tower platform which realistically simulated a working environment for Milan-Malpensa Airport (LIMC).
