Improving Utilization of Air Force Cargo Aircraft

The Deployable Mobility Execution System (DMES) was developed for the US Air Force to improve aircraft utilization and responsiveness in airlift operations. The model uses a modified cutting stock heuristic to generate feasible cargo loads, which the planner can modify using detailed interactive graphics. The system runs on a small, off-the-shelf microcomputer which can be operated at remote sites. In three tests during military exercises, the system reduced load-planning man-hours by 90 percent and increased airlift utilization by 10 percent. During the Grenada rescue operation in October 1983, the system saved over $2.5 million in flying-hour costs and provided timely planning. Projected annual savings for peacetime exercises are estimated to exceed $20 million. More importantly, DMES significantly improves airlift support of combat operations.