AmtrakConnectSM now available on Acela Express trains and in major Northeast Corridor stations
WASHINGTON – This morning Amtrak launched its Wi-Fi Internet service, known as AmtrakConnectSM aboard all 20 high-speed Acela Express trains, in six major stations along the Northeast Corridor, and in all four ClubAcela lounges. Initially offered as a complimentary service, AmtrakConnect is available to every passenger on board Acela Express both in Business and First class seating.
“AmtrakConnect delivers the fast, reliable and consistent connectivity that our customers have been asking for,” said Matt Hardison, Chief, Sales Distribution and Customer Service, noting the on-board Wi-Fi system typically outperforms cellular air cards and smart phones.
Using any laptop computer or other portable device that is Wi-Fi enabled, Amtrak passengers traveling on Acela Express between Washington, D.C. and Boston can connect to the service for general Web surfing and reading email. The system also allows passengers to access their corporate networks through most standard Virtual Private Network (VPN) solutions, turning the train trip into productive work time.
In addition, Amtrak is launching AmtrakConnect for all Amtrak passengers within the gate areas of Washington Union Station, Baltimore Penn Station, Philadelphia 30th Street Station, New York Penn Station, Providence Station and Route 128 Station in Boston. Wilmington Station will be Wi-Fi equipped once major station renovations are completed in early 2011. Wi-Fi service continues to be available in all ClubAcela lounges in Washington, DC, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston.
“This is only the first step for our mtrakConnect program,” says Lenetta McCampbell, Senior Director for On-board Systems. “Amtrak will continually improve the service as Wi-Fi technology evolves, and we are evaluating opportunities to expand AmtrakConnect to additional routes and stations throughout the country.”
AmtrakConnect service on Acela Express trains will remain free of charge during the introductory period, after which the policy will be reviewed based on customer demand and system performance.
AmtrakConnect was deployed on Acela Express by Virginia Beach-based GBS Group and its partner Nomad Digital.
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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Even though when I travel (even if just the 18mile - still free, but maybe not much longer - ride into town on the BNSF for the Symphony), I feel like this fellow "in reverse', I accept that this Wi-Fi stuff is 'expected' nowadays on premium transportation. Even the livery car, a Lincoln Town Car, I used this past October for my "escape from Brooklyn' (to GCT and thence back to my hotel in Greenwich as well as away from some God-awful heavy metal rock) even had a sign saying it was Wi-Fi enabled and complimentary.
Henry Kisor Member # 4776
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I'm heading out on No. 5 this week for Grand Junction, and hope that the wifi in the sleeper lounge at CUS is back up. If it's not, I'll do the Smitty trick and buy lunch at the tavern/restaurant upstairs to access the eatery's wifi node.
TNCMAXQ Member # 4875
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I will be eager to try it next time on the 4.5 hour trip from New Haven to DC. Glad I bought a netbook. It is quite small and sometimes hard to get used to the keyboard but it's certainly easier to travel with than a regular laptop.
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