Scheduling at Scale: Inside Timetable Optimization & Operational Flight Models
Details
⚠️ Important Note:
PyData Amsterdam is transitioning to Luma. ✨
- Please subscribe to PyData Amsterdam on Luma: https://luma.com/pydataamsterdam
- And register at the Luma registration link for this event: https://luma.com/ref9worx
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Join us at PyData Amsterdam’s very first meetup in Amersfoort!
We are excited to announce our next meetup on Thursday, March 12, 2026, hosted by Lynxx, near Amersfort Central Station! This edition dives deep into Operations Research and large-scale optimization algorithms. We will explore how complex logistical puzzles, from railway disruptions to aircraft assignments, are solved using mathematical models and Python.
This evening goes beyond the textbook basics of mixed linear programming. We’re diving into the engineering challenges of building solvers in Python that are fast, robust, and capable of handling massive scale. From creating alternative timetables to allow for railway maintenance to solving the complex puzzle of aircraft assignments, you’ll discover the architectural decisions—and the necessary trade-offs—that turn raw mathematical models into operational efficiency.
Thrilled as well?! We'd love to welcome you for an evening full of knowledge sharing, deep technical dives, and, of course, great conversations, networking, and a fun evening with the community!
Agenda
- 17:30 - 18:25: Walk-in with drinks & food (🍕/🍻)
- 18:25 - 19:15: Talk 1 - RAAD - A timetable optimizer build in Python,
by Merel Groen & Robin Weber - 19:15 - 19:30: Break
- 19:30 - 20:15 Talk 2: The optimisation engine behind tail assignment, by Tessa van Kleef
- 20:15 - 21:00: Networking + drinks & bites 🍻
Talk 1
RAAD: a Timetable optimizer build in Python, by Merel Groen & Robin Weber
RAAD is an optimization tool developed by Lynxx for ProRail. RAAD can quantify the impact of service disruptions on the railway network and the consequences for an alternative timetable, balancing between the different railway operators. In this presentation, we will further elaborate on the developed codebase, with special attention to the class structure, performance, solver integration, and more!
Merel Groen is a Data Scientist at Lynxx, where she specializes in optimizing operational processes through analytical problem-solving. She joined the team in 2023, starting her journey by writing her Master's thesis in Econometrics on industry-relevant challenges. At Lynxx, she leverages her background to dive into complex logistical details, translating theoretical models into practical solutions for rail and transport networks.
Robin Weber is a Data Scientist at Lynxx, where he specializes in shaping and delivering complex Operations Research projects. Before joining Lynxx in 2022, he worked as an Operations Research Scientist at Dassault Systèmes. With a strong academic background in Econometrics and Operations Research from the University of Groningen, Robin combines deep theoretical knowledge with practical application to solve intricate logistical puzzles.
Talk 2
The optimization engine behind tail assignment, by Tessa van Kleef
In this session, I’ll show how a mathematical optimization model transforms the complex tail assignment puzzle, i.e., deciding which aircraft operates which flight, into a fast, automated, and robust process. By integrating operational constraints, maintenance needs, and fuel considerations, the model delivers more efficient schedules while saving planners significant time.
Tessa van Kleef is an Operations Research Specialist at Transavia, where she focuses on optimizing airline logistics and planning. With a strong background in mathematics and aviation, she specializes in solving complex operational puzzles like aircraft tail assignment. Her work bridges the gap between theoretical models and real-world flight schedules, ensuring efficiency and robustness in daily airline operations.
Directions
Address: Stationsplein 61, Amersfoort
We are located directly inside the station building!
- Head to the main hall: Look for Bakker Bart and Smullers.
- The entrance: Keep both shops on your right-hand side. Our entrance (number 61) is one of the first doors on the right as you walk outside toward the bus station.
- To the 3rd floor: Take the elevator or stairs up to the 3rd floor.
By car? The following P+R garages are the most convenient and lead directly to the station:
- Barchman Wuytierslaan
- Piet Mondriaanplein
