Air Cargo Scheduling Using Genetic Algorithms

Abstract

This project is to optimize the scheduling of the packages within the aircrafts' loading capacities, which are simulated. The optimization criteria are evaluated by customer satisfaction and maximize the usage and profit of the aircrafts. Three algorithms for the batch delivery scheduling problem are developed to find the optimal air cargo shipment. These algorithms are genetic algorithm with earliest due date method, extended due date method and genetic algorithm with extended due date method. The performances of these algorithms are compared to first come first serve and earliest due date scheduling method. The performance of genetic algorithm is analyzed by its fitness function. Air cargos which are handled within Chinese cities is based on flight schedules of nine airline companies including Air Macau, EVA Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Dragon Air, China Airlines and Mandarin Airlines.