November 2, 2009

Amtrak plans to offer free wi-fi on Acela trains by 2010

Amtrak’s high-speed Acela trains are on track to get wi-fi in 2010 and at least initally, the service will be free, according to the five-year fiscal plan issued Thursday by the railroad.

“Launch is anticipated in the second quarter of FY10. This service will initially be offered at no cost to our customers, though pricing may change depending on customer response, system performance, and costs,” the Amtrak document states. “The goal for this offering is to drive competitive advantage that will result in additional ridership and revenue on Acela trains. As of the end of FY09 the company will have just begun deployment.”

The service could then extend beyond the business-class train: “In addition to Acela, Amtrak is preparing to extend WiFi to other services, depending on market response. Amtrak has budgeted an additional $26.2 million for these investments in the period FY11-FY14, with the first most likely additional WiFi offering to be on the Northeast Regional,” the Amtrak document states.

In July, an Amtrak spokesman told NewYorkology wi-fi was available on some Acela trains for free, while the service was in test mode.

The Acela travels between Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. with only a few other stops along the way.

Image source: Acela route map from Amtrak’s official website.

Earlier: Amtrak confirms wi-fi in test mode on Acela trains
Amtrak sale extends to Dec. 16; $49 to D.C. or Boston

November 2, 2009 9:23 AM in Arrivology, Techology

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