To determine the efficient scale of an operator for the purposes of the cost model, NRAs should take into account that in fixed networks operators have the opportunity to build their networks in particular geographic areas and to focus on high-density routes and/or to rent relevant network inputs from the incumbents.

This is distinct to the situation for new entrants in fixed markets which have the opportunity to achieve low unit costs by focusing their networks on high-density routes in particular geographic areas and/or by renting relevant network inputs from the incumbents.

However, the imposition of public service obligations on regular air services to thinly-served destinations or to an airport serving a geographical region, following the issuing of an invitation to tender, is allowed even after the expiry of the transitional period.

According to Article 4(1)(a) of the Regulation on access for Community air carriers to intra-Community air routes [55], a Member State, following consultations with the other Member States concerned and after having informed the Commission and air carriers operating on the route, may impose a public service obligation in respect of scheduled air services to an airport serving a peripheral or development region in its territory or on a thin route to any regional airport in its territory, any such route being considered vital for the economic development of the region in which the airport is located, to the extent necessary to ensure on th ...[+++]at route the adequate provision of scheduled air services satisfying fixed standards of continuity, regularity, capacity and pricing, which standards air carriers would not assume if they were solely considering their commercial interest.

This may concern routes serving an airport a peripheral or development region in its territory or on a thin route to any regional airport in its territory.

To find an effective response to the international spread of terrorism, the countries of the European Union must exchange their information and intelligence on terrorist groups more efficiently; they must gain greater mutual knowledge of the funding mechanisms of terrorist networks and their channels for obtaining weapons supplies and material resources and, lastly, step up cooperation as regards links between drug trafficking, other forms of serious crime and terrorists.