A NETWORK THEORETIC INVESTIGATION INTO THE TOPOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF U.S. AIRLINE ROUTE NETWORK GROWTH
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Authors
Hicks, Kenneth A.
Subjects
network science
airline network
multilayer network model
network evolution
airline network
multilayer network model
network evolution
Advisors
Gera, Ralucca
Isenhour, Michelle L.
Date of Issue
2018-06
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
Commercial airline networks are complex, dynamic systems that have become critical components of infrastructure, and understanding the nature and evolution of these networks is necessary in order to maximize their benefits. In this thesis we model the U.S. domestic air transportation system as a temporal multilayer directed network and investigate the route network structure of different U.S. airlines. We apply a network theoretic framework to the evolution of these airlines, represented as layers of the network. We identify the topological properties of these layers as airports are added to and dropped from the airline route networks during years of growth. From this framework, we develop a model based upon centralities for identifying airports that make good candidates for addition to or removal from an airline network, and assess how our model aligns with historical decisions made by the airlines. We find the model to be more successful in identifying airports (1) for removal from, rather than in addition to, a layer, and (2) for addition by low-cost carriers rather than full-service carriers.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Applied Mathematics (MA)
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.