South Korea was viewed in the early stages as a potential operator.

"You're going to have potential multiple operators of these vehicles," he said.

In February of 2012, the city hosted a walk around for potential operators of a new Tavern on the Green.

But potential operators of such proposals have had difficulty getting investors.

India was also viewed as another potential operator of the Su-33.

Two potential operators came forward, but submitted plans that would have been too expensive for the city to fund.

At the time bidding began, Mr. Zoffinger said the authority had received requests for information from 17 potential private operators.

An important step, he said, would be for Mass Moca to recruit a potential operator.

The critical question is whether once potential operators do their own studies, will they still be interested?

His key role, both locally and internationally, was as a propagandist and inspiration to potential terrorist operators.