Not really so outrageous - but here is just one source:
Environmental Physics, by Clare Environmental Physics, by Clare Smith (first published 2001), Pgs. 66-67
Table 2.5 Energy use in freight transport
Mode Energy consumption kJ tonne-km
Road 2,890
Rail 677
Air 15,839
Water 423
Pipeline 168
This indicates why, e.g., gravel, coal, steel girders, cement, and other bulk non-perishable items (for which time is not especially a contraint) are almost always transported by ship, rather than in airplanes.
The above relation would also hold true for passenger transportation - if not only cruise ships, but also jets had to be equipped with, e.g., swimming pools and gyms for the amusement and convenience of their passengers.
Hint: You cannot question my background on this matter.
I wouldn't dream of indulging in an ad hominem attack (nor, conversely, in an ad auctoritatem defence).
Regards,
“I wouldn’t dream of indulging in an ad hominem attack (nor, conversely, in an ad auctoritatem defence).”
LOL
OK, that was a good one! ;-)