Impact of Airport Elevation on the Operational Performance and Fuel Consumption of Wide – Body Aircraft within a Sustainable Development Framework

Abstract

This paper evaluates the impact of airport elevation on the operational performance of wide – body aircraft within a sustainable aviation framework. A comparative analysis was conducted across three distinct elevations: Singapore Changi Airport, Hartsfield – Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and Denver International Airport. Empirical results indicate that elevated airport altitudes induce reductions in ambient air density, atmospheric pressure, and oxygen molecules in cubic meter of air. Consequently, the diminished air mass flow rate entering the propulsion system attenuates both net engine thrust and instantaneous fuel consumption rate. Conversely, this degradation in in aerodynamic and propulsive efficiency exacts a significant penalty by extending the required takeoff distance. Balancing these high – elevations performance trade – offs is essential for optimizing eco – efficiency. since aircraft operations at high elevation airports lead to land - use expansion for airport infrastructure and concentrate engine emissions in low - lying areas, managing operations in high elevation airports faces significant challenges. therefore, through the results of the comparative study among the three airports, and in order to achieve environmental and economic sustainable development in the aviation sector, this research has assisted decision makers in trade- offs and in evaluating the implications of managing flight operations at high elevation airports.