Next, the 63 en-route centers in Europe should be trimmed to no more than 40, which would save another 10% in unit costs. In their final state, IATA says the proposals could cut costs by up to 50%.

The blueprint also focuses on reinforcing the cost-efficiency performance goals that are related to the Single Sky effort. IATA wants the establishment of an independent European economic regulator to oversee air navigation charges. The existing Performance Review Body could be strengthened to fulfill this role, IATA says.

Tyler told AviationWeek on the sidelines of the CANSO conference that there is little point in helping pay for new ATM technology “if we’re not going to see a return on that investment.”

The other major aviation industry groups, along with the European Commission and Eurocontrol, are receptive to discussing the blueprint for reforming the Single Sky process, says Tyler. “We don’t mind if ours is not the one that is decided on, but we need a blueprint.” He says all those involved want to make progress. “There is a will, now we want to find a way.”