I don't disagree but I still see rail as a viable alternative for short distance travel in some aspects. I'd never take Amtrak to Detroit for instance due to time and somewhat cost. At the same time flying is more efficient time wise, the cost can be close to prohibitive in terms of add ons. Parking or other airport transportation, rental cars at DTW, etc. Not to mention flying these days seems akin to traveling by Trailways or Greyhound in terms of the overall personalities of fellow travelers.
I can go from Richmond to DC in about two hours, cheaper parking at the train station that you would find anywhere in the district and little or no issues with traffic. I feel the same way about DET to Chicago, except it might be a bit quicker to drive but the parking rates and having to deal with Chicago traffic would probably negate that for me.
Now if I can just find a way to get to Durham on demand in less than 2 hours