The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently welcomed the ratification of the contract for the definition phase for the Single European Sky Implementation Programme. IATA Director General & CEO Giovanni Bisignani met with Jacques Barrot, Vice President of the European Commission in Lisbon recently and praised the leadership in taking a giant step forward to more efficient European skies.

"While this day has been a long time coming, we are glad to see that the Commission and EUROCONTROL have recognized the need to move forward and that work can begin on making a European Single Sky a reality," said Bisignani. "Mr. Barrot's leadership has been instrumental in attaining this critical milestone. We must now turn our attention to making it happen. Industry losses continue to mount and the efficiencies of a more efficient European air traffic system will reduce delays to the traveling public and contribute to the overall health of the airline industry."

SESAR, formerly known as SESAME, has been recognized by the air transport community as the most appropriate means to mobilize the required support for the operational implementation of the Single European Sky legislation.

IATA is one of the 29 Air Traffic Alliance consortium partners that ratified the contract. The consortium consists of airspace users, airports, Air Navigation Service Providers and supply industries.