Amtrak Begins Frequent-Rider Program

Amtrak said it will begin rewarding frequent travelers with free train tickets, flights, hotel stays and other gifts as the U.S. rail service pushes to boost ridership before a 2003 deadline to wean itself from government subsidies. Train travelers will earn points for every trip under Guest Rewards, launched in tandem with the beginning of ticket sales for its high-speed Acela Express train, which begins service Dec. 11. Amtrak said the program will allow members to earn free rail travel or flights on UAL Corp.’s United Airlines, Continental Airlines and Midwest Express. Hilton Hotels Corp., Starwood Resorts & Hotels Worldwide Inc., Marriott International Inc. and Hertz Corp. are among other participants in the program. Members also will have the option of redeeming their points for gift certificates with retailers and restaurants, including Barnes & Noble Inc. booksellers. Members will earn two points for each dollar spent on Amtrak travel. Amtrak says its luxurious and fast Acela Express will attract passengers away from the airlines on the Northeast corridor. Amtrak faces a possible restructuring if it fails to reach operational self-sufficiency by 2003, according to the terms of 1997 U.S. legislation.