First of all, the story involves CVG, one of America's strongest fortress hubs. If airfares were the guy's biggest concern, then I'm sure a 1-stop into IND, DAY, or wherever would have been more optimal. I've done one-way rental cars between IND and CVG a couple times before - this is apparently semi-common, because rental rates were very fair with no drop charges or mileage charges.

Second, we all face this decision from time to time - fly or drive. Usually it's a little shorter for me out of MCI: maybe 400-500 miles. MSP is a drive. CHI is usually a flight. DEN is always a flight. But if it was a city that required at least one connection, I can see that stretching out to 600-700 miles. Depends on the purpose of the trip, whether it's just me or the whole family, what airlines are involved, etc. 720 miles...I'm *probably* flying it, but I could see a situation where I'd drive it.

The guy in the story just doesn't seem like a real critical thinker.