The analysis of the influence of delay absorbing sequence on flight delay propagation

Abstract

Due to the connection between the flights, flight delay will be spread to the downstream flights via the flight string. Therefore, we need to take some corresponding measures to mitigate flight delay propagation. Firstly, based on the sequences of flight delay absorption by buffer time, the paper analyzes the law of delay propagation among different nodes from three different perspectives. Then, based on the random forest algorithm, the factors affecting delay propagation are sorted by order of importance, and the key influencing factors of delay propagation are obtained. Finally, through a case study of an airline's flight operation data, some measures to mitigate flight delays are proposed from the perspective of adjusting buffer time.