Amtrak is advising travelers to book their holiday train tickets as soon as possible due to high demand. The national rail service recently announced a record 34.5 million customer trips in fiscal year 2025, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. This surge in ridership is expected to continue through the upcoming holiday season.
The company's president, Roger Harris, emphasized the importance of early booking, particularly for Thanksgiving and other peak travel periods. He noted that trains are likely to be very full.
Key Takeaways
- Amtrak recorded 34.5 million customer trips in fiscal year 2025, a 6% increase.
- Travelers should book holiday train tickets promptly due to high demand.
- New Airo trains, featuring modern amenities, will launch in 2026.
- Flexible ticketing options are available for last-minute changes.
- Booking during less popular times can help save money on fares.
Record Ridership Fuels Demand
Amtrak's recent fiscal year achievements highlight a growing interest in passenger rail travel across the United States. The 34.5 million trips represent an all-time high for the company.
Roger Harris commented on this trend, stating, "There's a genuine interest in passenger rail travel throughout the country." He also mentioned the company's efforts to enhance the travel experience, including increasing capacity and optimizing schedules for customer convenience.
Did You Know?
Amtrak's ridership in fiscal year 2025 reached 34.5 million customer trips, a 6% increase over the previous year.
Anticipating a Busy Holiday Season
With Thanksgiving approaching, Amtrak is preparing for one of its busiest periods. Harris explained that the record ridership observed throughout the year is expected to extend into the holiday travel season.
"It's the busiest time of year here at Amtrak," Harris said. He advised passengers to pack light, anticipating very full trains. This recommendation aims to ensure a smoother boarding process for everyone.
Future of Rail Travel: Airo Trains
Looking ahead, Amtrak is set to introduce its new Airo trains starting in 2026. These modern trains are designed to replace some of the older models, with some currently in service being up to 50 years old.
The Airo trains promise a significantly upgraded travel experience. Passengers can expect modern seating, larger restrooms, and an improved contemporary food service.
"The Airo service that comes out next year is going to be replacing trains that are 50 years old." – Roger Harris, Amtrak President
Broader Transportation Vision
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently spoke about the future of American rail. He expressed optimism for "faster trains, more affordable service and extended routes," suggesting a new era for the country's rail system.
Booking Advice for Travelers
Given the expected high demand, Harris strongly recommends that travelers book their tickets as soon as their holiday plans are firm. He highlighted Amtrak's flexible ticketing policy as a benefit for those planning ahead.
"The good thing about Amtrak is that we're very flexible in terms of our ticketing," Harris explained. He added that customers can change their tickets using the Amtrak app, offering convenience for last-minute adjustments.
Travel Day Logistics
While train travel is generally less hectic than flying, Harris noted a few key points for departure. Trains close for boarding two minutes before departure. He advised passengers not to wait until the last moment to arrive at the station.
Travelers do not need to arrive hours in advance, unlike air travel, but planning to be at the station in time to board before departure is crucial.
- Book tickets early once holiday plans are confirmed.
- Utilize the Amtrak app for flexible ticket changes.
- Arrive at the station with enough time; trains close two minutes before departure.
- Pack light to manage busy train conditions.
Navigating Pricing and Weather
Amtrak's pricing structure has recently drawn attention on social media, with some customers observing significant price variations for similar routes. Harris addressed these concerns, acknowledging that high demand can influence ticket costs.
"It's true that with the tremendous interest we have in train travel today, trains are really full and that does have the impact of driving up prices," he said.
Traveler Numbers
Nearly 82 million people are expected to travel over the Thanksgiving holiday season, according to AAA figures.
Tips for Cost Savings
To potentially save money, Harris suggested that travelers be flexible with their travel times. "If you can travel on trains at less popular times a day, you can save money," he advised. He also recommended comparing prices before purchasing tickets.
Winter Travel Preparations
With record cold weather, lake-effect snow, and unsettled conditions impacting various regions, Amtrak is taking steps to ensure safe winter travel. Harris detailed measures such as winterizing trains to prevent freezing and maintaining stations for safety.
These preparations are part of Amtrak's commitment to ensuring passenger safety and convenience, even in challenging weather. He reiterated the importance of passengers arriving at stations with ample time to avoid difficult weather conditions.
