The correct answer is (A) is false but (R) is true. • Air transport is a very useful means of transport in mountainous and hilly regions but it is not for all as it is a very expensive mode of transport and its reach is limited to fewer people compared to road and rail transport. Hence, Assertion(A) is false. • Air transport is a very capital-intensive industry that is why it is very expensive. • Thus, the assertion is incorrect. • The reason is correct as it is very costly and difficult to construct roads and railways in the mountainous regions as there is rough terrain, harsh weather and it is also difficult to move heavy machinery there. Hence, Reason (B) is true. Related Concepts: • Air Transport was started in 1911 in India between Allahabad and Naini. • Pawan Hans Helicopter Limited has been providing helicopter support services to the petroleum sector like ONGC, ODL, etc., and also provides services to certain state Governments, PSU, and in the North-Eastern States. Important Notes: • In 1995, the International Airport Authority of India and the National Airports Authority were merged to form the Airports Authority of India. • Indian Railway is the 3rd largest rail network in the world after the US and China. • There are six national waterways set up by the Inland Waterways Authority of India in 1986.