Question

Distinguish between waterways and airways.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Waterways	Airways
1.	Use natural/constructed water routes (rivers, canals, seas); require ports, docks and navigable depth.	Use the atmosphere/airspace; require airports, runways, air traffic control and advanced navigation systems.
2.	Generally slower - suited for bulk, non‑urgent cargo and large passenger ships/ferries.	Much faster - preferred for urgent, time‑sensitive passengers and high‑value/light cargo.
3.	Lower cost per tonne‑kilometre and very high cargo capacity.	Higher operating cost per unit and lower cargo volume per flight.
4.	Less affected by short‑term weather but constrained by seasonal navigability, port locations and channel depth; best for coastal/intercontinental trade.	More sensitive to weather, terrain and airspace restrictions; needs favourable conditions, clear approaches and technical support (limits in fog, mountains, severe weather).