Wifi Revolution

Showing itself as powerful as the little engine that could, Amtrak announced the rollout of wireless Internet access on all 20 of its Acela Express trains between Washington, D.C., and Boston and in the six major stations between both destinations.

 

Known as AmtrakConnect, the WiFi (News - Alert)  service 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 WiFi system typically outperforms cellular air cards and smart phones.

 

Using any laptop computer or other portable device that is WiFi-enabled, Amtrak passengers traveling on Acela Express between Washington, D.C. and Boston can connect to the service for general Web surfing and reading e-mail. The system also allows passengers to access their corporate networks through most standard Virtual Private Network solutions.

 

In addition, Amtrak launched 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 in Delaware will be WiFi-equipped once major station renovations are completed in early 2011.

 

“This is only the first step for our AmtrakConnect program,” said 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.”

Back to WiFi Revolution home