Hello Reader,

ALL ABOARD, for this week's newsletter, we chat about "empty" Amtrak trains and more.

Why Does Amtrak Run “Empty” or Light Trains?

If you’ve ever traveled on Amtrak or watched a train pass, you might have noticed some trains with few passengers.

This practice raises a common question: Why would Amtrak run a nearly empty train? At first glance, it doesn’t seem logical or a waste of resources and money—or does it?

This thought came to mind during my trip last week on the Hiawatha from Sturtevant to Milwaukee and then to Chicago. I had the car to myself and the two conductors. As the train pulled into the Sturtevant station, I knew I’d easily snag a window seat without a seatmate.

Critics of train travel often use these lightly used trains to argue against increasing passenger rail frequency, questioning their efficiency and purpose.

However, there’s a practical and logical explanation behind these “empty” trains.

The Reason Behind “Empty” Trains

Before the Borealis route began, the Hiawatha operated with two standard train sets. This arrangement ensured a train was always available at the Milwaukee or Chicago station or between the two.

The first two southbound Hiawatha trains out of Milwaukee become crowded with commuters heading to Chicago. Amtrak must strategically position its equipment throughout the day to accommodate these busy trains and keep the system running smoothly. This involves moving trains—even those with few or no passengers— to ensure they are in the right place at the right time to meet passenger demand.

For example, while the first train of the day overnight stays in Milwaukee, the next morning’s departure requires equipment to arrive from Chicago. To accomplish this, Amtrak operates an early northbound train from Chicago to Milwaukee, often with minimal passengers, as few people need to reach Milwaukee by 7:39 a.m.

However, this train ensures a set is ready to depart Milwaukee at 8:05 a.m., filled with passengers headed for Chicago.

This process, known as “equipment positioning,” is essential for running the entire system. Whether or not trains carry passengers, moving equipment ensures enough trains in the right locations to handle peak travel times and maintain smooth operations.

Cheaper to keep moving

I have traveled on trains that start crowded, become nearly empty, and fill up again later in the journey.

The passenger demand varies along different segments of a route. However, it is often more efficient and cost-effective for Amtrak to continue running trains through less populated areas instead of dividing the route into shorter segments. This strategy saves time and money and offers passengers a smoother experience when traveling the entire route, eliminating the need to switch trains.

Wrapping Up

strategically positioningAt first glance, operating lightly used or “empty” trains may appear wasteful; however, it is crucial for ensuring reliable and efficient rail service. The objective is strategically positioning trains to meet peak demand, benefiting passengers.

So, next time you spot a nearly empty train, remember that it’s part of a bigger plan to keep Amtrak and other passenger train networks running smoothly.

What has Kev been up to?

I have been in chilly Florida, visiting my sister and her family, visiting their home. It has been fun, yet exhausting. Each kid wants to spend time with Uncle Kev, and I only have so much time and energy.

Last week, I took my eldest niece to a tourist gator place in Destin, FL, called Gator Beach and Fudpuckers. It was fun and novel. My niece was initially nervous but then warmed up to the activities. Once she realized that she was safe, she was fine. By the way, it was a safe place.

The Fudpuckers' alligator burger was exellentat. The food came out quickly, and the service was terrific. Mack enjoyed the fries.

​Petron members get more of the story and photos.

Concluding this Newsletter

I want to thank Mike and Irving for hitting the support button below. Your help ensures this content stays on track! You can join them by hitting the green button below, joining Patreon, or checking out my support page.

Thanks so much for being here and part of this incredible journey with me!

Happy planning and safe travels!

Kev Monteith