(The following story by Keith Walker appeared on the Potomac News website on November 19.)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Amtrak expects to serve 7.5 tons of roast turkey on its long-distance trains between Nov. 21 and 27.
The railroad also expects 125,000 passengers to ride its rails the day before Thanksgiving and will add 30,000 seats in 60 extra trains to accommodate them, according to a recent Amtrak press release.
Since it’s going to be busy, Amtrak advises holiday train travelers to buy tickets early.
Trains in the Northeast Corridor, between Boston, New York, Washington, D.C., and Newport News, are currently 45 percent sold out, Amtrak officials said.
The majority of Amtrak trains that operate in the northeast corridor require reservations, according to the release.
Amtrak said there are plenty of seats on the Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday trains during Thanksgiving week.
Reduced, off-peak fares may be available on trains the Monday before, and the Friday after Thanksgiving, according to the release. The busiest travel times during the Thanksgiving holiday are Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday afternoons and passengers should expect delays at those times, according to the release.
On Thanksgiving Day, morning trains will not be as busy as afternoon trains.
Make Amtrak reservations at http://www.amtrak.com or call (800) USA-RAIL.
Amtrak recommends that passengers arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before departure time with photo identification.
All passenger, 18 or older, must present a a valid driver’s license, passport or similar photo identification to purchase tickets or claim baggage, according to the release.
Carry-on luggage is limited to two pieces, not including purses, briefcases, laptops or baby supplies.
Each piece of carry-on baggage must be tagged with the owner’s name and address.