Book excerpt: This insightful book provides readers with an in-depth discussion of the use of benchmarking in regulation in the European transport sector. It argues that benchmarking is invaluable to regulators, particularly in the transport sector where the pressures of competition in - or for - the market are often absent. Written by a range of expert contributors, chapters offer an analysis of methodology, data requirements as well as practical examples of the use of benchmarking in the main transport modes (such as road, rail, seaports, airports and local public transport). Utilising illuminating case studies, the book also reviews the importance of benchmarking in the application of European competition law and considers the issue of obtaining appropriate and reliable data to achieve this. Benchmarking and Regulation in Transport will be an essential read for researchers, scholars and students in the fields of economic regulation, governance, transport economics and transport law. It will also be useful for policymakers and regulators who wish to further their understanding of the benefits of benchmarking in an efficiency-enhancing public policy strategy, especially within transport infrastructure.