In the last decade or so the air travel infrastructure of India has undergone something of a revolution.
Whereas in the past few Indians could afford the extravagant fares charged for a cross-country flight, this new, wealthy generation of Indians have more than enough disposable income to choose a quick flight over a long bus or train journey.
There are many, though, who would prefer to stick with the old forms of transport, no matter how aged the infrastructure or slow the service.
While the younger generation take to the skies the older, more set in their ways fold continue to travel by bus and train.
In an effort to prove that air travel is a better option, here's a quick example of the costs and benefits of a single cross-country journey from Jaipur to New Delhi.
Using a popular Indian price comparison site I planned this journey by air, road and rail.
The journey is a one way trip, dated about a month in the future (to account for last-minute price changes).

• By Air

At least 8 airlines provide regular service between Jaipur and Delhi.
The cheapest, an early morning or early evening flight, cost 2,685 rupees ($53.
50).
The flight is economy class, non stop, and takes exactly one hour.

• By Rail

The popular route between Delhi and Jaipur books up fast at certain times of the year, and while the train is relatively quick compared to other Indian services it's certainly nowhere near the level of comfort offered by the airlines.
I took this train in 2011 on the way to Jaisalmer, and the second class air-conditioned carriage is pretty basic.
Three levels of hard beds are on offer, and if you take a lower berth you can expect to share your bed with several non-fare paying passengers who don't understand the concept of train travel.
The standard fare for a second class air-conditioned berth is around 550 rupees ($11), and the journey time is a little over 6 hours.

• By Road

Finally, those who are on a serious budget can travel to Delhi from Jaipur by public bus.
A ticket on a reasonably comfortable air-conditioned bus would cost around 400 rupees ($8), but the seriously frugal can grab a ticket on a 'deluxe' bus (nothing of the sort) for just 145 rupees ($3).
I'm not sure of the exact travel time, but the 260 km journey should take somewhere in the region of 8 hours.
Clearly, then, those with the means would do well to choose to fly from Jaipur to Delhi.
At a cost of around $50 travellers could touch down in Delhi just an hour after take off.
Those who simply can't afford $50, though, should take the bus.
While they would be facing an 8 hour journey, a price of $3 is very impressive.
The train, though, occupies the no man's land between the two.
Not considerably quicker than the bus, and not quick enough to rival flying.
Bus of plane, take your pick.