Trains in the USA are busy too

Amtrak, America’s passenger rail is celebrating its 40th anniversary during a period of long-term growth that has seen the company set annual ridership records in seven of the last eight fiscal years, including more than 28m passengers last year.  Amtrak is on track to set a new record in 2011.

Forty years ago, on 1 May 1971, Amtrak operated its first intercity passenger train.  For four decades, through periods of opportunity and challenge it has connected America, its intercity passenger rail provider and only high-speed rail operator.

While the 40th anniversary provides an opportunity to look back at each of the great transitions in the short history of the service and the introduction of 150 mph (241 kph) high-speed Acela Express service in 2000, Amtrak is committed to providing America with the transportation choices it will need in the future.  It is actively planning for next-generation 220 mph high-speed rail service along the Northeast Corridor and is beginning to implement a fleet renewal programme to provide new, modern and more reliable equipment for passengers and to meet anticipated future service expansion.  Typically Boston (Back Bay) to New York (Penn) is less than 3hrs 30mins, competes very favourably with the full air journey including the airport/city transfer. www.amtrak.com

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