Is the Acela train better?

The key thing to know is that Acela tickets are considerably more expensive and trains stop at fewer stations. Plus, Acela trains aren't much faster than the Northeast Regional unless you are traveling a long distance. Despite these drawbacks, there are a few Acela perks.



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We realize that you have many options when traveling in the Northeast, but the answer should be clear: Acela is the smarter and more efficient way to go, saving you time, money and hassles when traveling from DC to New York and Boston.

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With 95% of the trainset components being made in America, our new Acelas have generated over 1,300 new jobs in over 90 cities across the United States. The new Acela will operate at top speeds of 160 mph vs. today's fleet, which operates at top speeds of 150 mph.

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Superior comfort, with more space and legroom than typical airline seating. With free WiFi, and power outlets at your seat it's easy to stay connected while traveling at speeds up to 150 mph.

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We look forward to welcoming you in Acela First Class. Once onboard, you'll enjoy complimentary at-seat meal and beverage service provided by our onboard staff of First Class attendants. Selections include freshly prepared chef inspired entrees as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

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Why is the Acela so slow? The Acela can do 135 mph up to New York, but it averages about half that speed. That's because the rails are more than 100 years old in places, and thus too frail for anything faster. Amtrak also shares them with slower freight and local commuter lines.

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Before the first train was built, the Federal Railroad Administration required it to meet crash safety standards that senior Amtrak officials considered too strict. That forced the manufacturers, Bombardier Inc. of Canada and GEC Alstom of France, to make the trains twice as heavy as European models.

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Each passenger may only bring a total of 2 carry-on items onboard the train; each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches.

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All Acela trains now offer seat selection in Business and First Class, offering more peace of mind knowing your seat is waiting for you.

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Acela First Class also offers seat selection, allowing for seamless boarding while taking the guesswork out of finding your seat. Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation, but you may change it to an available seat of your choosing at no additional cost.

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On average, Acela and Northeast Regional trains departing New York on the weekend have 15 percent better on-time performance than trains leaving on weekdays. The majority run on-time more than 80 percent of the time — that figure jumps to 90 percent for morning Acela trains.

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Service Attendant All tips are always appreciated, but, unless something special is done for you (luggage porterage, a wake-up, etc.) there is no need to tip for routine services included in the ticket.

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Roomy, Comfortable Seating Conference tables, with seating for two or four, are available. A luggage tower and oversized overhead bins enable easy storage of carry-on luggage. Complimentary WiFi is also available. Amtrak Guest Reward members traveling in Acela First Class receive 50% point bonus.

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Acela trains are the fastest in the Americas, reaching 150 miles per hour (240 km/h) (qualifying as high-speed rail), but only over 49.9 miles (80.3 km) of the 457-mile (735 km) route. Washington, D.C. Overhead line; 25 kV 60 Hz AC (Boston–New Haven)

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Train travel is much simpler, as there is no TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR equivalent for Amtrak. Amtrak trains offer private rooms, more legroom, more space from your fellow passengers, more comfortable seats, and more food & beverage options.

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Probably not. The flight itself is much shorter than the train ride, but the Acela spares you the airport hassles. Between driving, flying and train between Boston and NYC, I usually opt for train. I used to do day trips to NYC for work and they always flew me.

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The new Acela fleet utilizes cutting-edge safety systems to provide real-time monitoring, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. Additional safety systems include handles integrated into the seatbacks to aid customers as they walk through the train and grab bars for stability.

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So how are they different? The key thing to know is that Acela tickets are considerably more expensive and trains stop at fewer stations.

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Acela was the first train to offer the amenity. According to Amtrak, passengers can now connect on more than 30 short-haul and long-distance trains across the country. The company plans to upgrade to 5G.

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Amtrak Business Class offers many amenities over coach class including extra legroom, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and a 25% point bonus through Amtrak Guest Rewards.

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