UK airlines are desperate for the government to extend its support for an insurance scheme that is due to expire next week.
British Air Transport Association (BATA) secretary general Roger Wiltshire said an extension was "vital" to avoid domestic airlines being at a competitive disadvantage.
An extension even until the end of the month could allow UK airlines to join European rivals in negotiating cover.
BATA and the Association of Insurance and Risk Managers called for such an extension.
Most European governments support insurance schemes until 31 March.
The US is expected to decide this week if it will support a scheme for its airlines.
Critics see it as an attack on insurers which withdrew cover in the wake of the 11 September attacks.
One executive said: "It's the airlines saying, `You stung us, now we're setting up our own so we don't need you any more."
Broker Marsh is believed to be behind the mutual scheme.
