By Railfan & Railroad Staff

Amtrak has simplified its fare structure and eliminated what it called “saver” tickets from its system. However, officials with the passenger railroad say it believes passengers will benefit from big savings as a result of the new system. Amtrak said it made the changes based on “extensive customer research” in an effort to better meet the needs of passengers.

“Saver” tickets were often the cheapest ticket on the train but came with one major downside; they were non-refundable if your plans changed. Now Amtrak’s ticketing system will have “Flex” and “Value” tickets. The Flex tickets are fully refundable if canceled and can be changed without feeds before departure, ideal for people who think their plans might change. Value tickets are cheaper than Flex but only come with a 75 percent refund if canceled. You also cannot change them ahead of departure. 

“This streamlined fare structure with more affordable and flexible fares is part of Amtrak’s continued commitment to upgrading the customer experience at every step along their journey,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris.

Visit Amtrak.com for more information.