AAA Offers Travel Tips to Combat Potential Amtrak Shutdown
ORLANDO, Fla.--June 26, 2002--Although Amtrak will run its full passenger service for another week, the railroad could begin a shutdown of its services prior to or during the Fourth of July holiday and travelers need to be aware of their options, according to AAA.Amtrak President David Gunn has said that without financial aid from the government the railroad will start turning away passengers next week. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta has indicated that the Bush Administration and Amtrak will work together with Congress to ensure rail service continues, but no action has been taken so far.
"While Amtrak operates across a 22,000-mile network, the biggest impact from any shutdown will be felt in the heavily traveled Northeast Corridor," said AAA Travel Vice President Sandra Hughes. "Currently, Amtrak reports all trains are operating. "
With the Fourth of July holiday rapidly approaching, AAA offers the following tips to travelers who already have purchased a ticket or are considering travel on Amtrak:
| -- | If you haven't purchased a ticket, make your reservations through a travel agent. If you do encounter problems due to a reduction or elimination of service, the agent can help you make alternate arrangements. |
| -- | Pay for your ticket with a credit card so that you can notify your credit card company to credit your account for the full fare if you are forced to make alternate arrangements. Amtrak also has pledged to reimburse any person who may be adversely affected by changes to its schedule. |
| -- | Reconfirm your departure at least 48 hours prior to departure and again 24 hours in advance. |
| -- | Be prepared to produce a valid photo identification, such as driver's license or passport, when purchasing a ticket or checking baggage. |
| -- | Purchase a ticket prior to boarding any train between Washington and Boston since conductors will not sell tickets to customers boarding at stations whose ticket office is open at the time of departure. Photo identification is required to purchase tickets from conductors on board trains in other areas of the country. |
As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides its 45 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.