Control system for optimal flight trajectories for terrain collision avoidance

The aim of this project is to research optimal escape trajectories for aircraft in close ground proximity using a given digital terrain model. Optimal escape trajectories will depend on pilot skills, aircraft performance and as well as other requirements, such as the need to fly low or fast. This paper presents initial results of a project to optimise for a McDonald F-4 Phantom flight trajectories in a hypothetical, digital terrain using a non-linear optimisation method. The 2 outcomes show that different controls result depending on the objectives or constraints.