By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In Fiscal Year 2025, Amtrak achieved record-breaking ridership and revenue, marking the second consecutive year of substantial growth. The company saw 34.5 million customer trips and $2.7 billion in adjusted ticket revenue, demonstrating strong demand for quality service and a focus on customer experience. Investments in infrastructure and fleet modernization, including the launch of new services like the Amtrak Mardi Gras and NextGen Acela, further contributed to the year’s success. These achievements set the stage for continued expansion, with a focus on achieving operational profitability by Fiscal Year 2028.
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Amtrak hits highest ridership ever for second year in a row, and it’s something to celebrate. It’s a clear signal that there’s a real hunger for good rail passenger service in the United States. People are clearly yearning for the rails, and they’re showing it by choosing trains in record numbers. This is a testament to the fact that when we offer a decent alternative to flying or driving, people will take it.
The reasons for this surge are varied, but some themes emerge. For many, train travel offers a superior experience. It’s often more comfortable and less stressful than the airport hustle or the long haul behind the wheel. The opportunity to relax, watch the scenery, and enjoy the journey is a huge draw. People talk about the joy of watching shows while the world rolls by, of not having to deal with the cramped seats and security lines of air travel. For others, the convenience of avoiding traffic or the environmental benefits of choosing a less carbon-intensive mode of transport are key drivers. Some find that buying tickets weeks in advance can make the cost surprisingly reasonable, especially on routes like Boston to New York City.
However, the enthusiasm is often tempered by practical realities. Many people acknowledge the significant limitations of Amtrak’s current infrastructure and service. One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of widespread connectivity. A vast number of major cities across the US, including places like Columbus, Phoenix, and Las Vegas, are simply lacking in proper rail service. The lack of infrastructure and capacity limits, especially outside the Northeast Corridor, make it difficult for Amtrak to meet the demand. Existing trains are often sold out, and the price of tickets can be prohibitively expensive.
Another major issue is the time factor. While train travel can be a delightful experience, it often takes longer than flying or driving. The lack of schedule reliability, with frequent delays, can be a major frustration for travelers. This is particularly true on long-distance routes, where a train journey might take significantly longer than a flight, costing more in some cases. The hope is high-speed rail becomes a reality.
The financial aspect is also a significant factor. While some routes offer competitive pricing, the cost of train tickets can often be higher than air travel, especially for last-minute bookings. The fact that the US lags behind other countries with better train infrastructure is a source of frustration for many. In China, ridership is in the billions annually, highlighting the potential for growth if the US invested more in its rail system. We need more, faster, and cheaper trains in America.
Despite these challenges, the overwhelming sentiment is positive. The recurring theme is the desire for more service, better schedules, and improved infrastructure. People want more connections between cities and more options within cities. Many are also calling for the expansion of pet-friendly services, acknowledging that this could significantly boost ridership.
Ultimately, the success of Amtrak, reflected in its record ridership, underscores the potential for rail travel in the US. What’s needed is more investment, more innovation, and a commitment to providing a travel experience that meets the needs of modern travelers. As long as big business is not as savvy in seeing how much more spending money the average person in the US would have if they didn’t have to pay a car note and car insurance monthly, public transportation will be hindered. The future looks bright for Amtrak if we can deliver.