Amtrak is trying out a new self-service check-in system on some of its Acela high-speed trains on the Northeast Corridor, eliminating the need to show a ticket to a conductor.
Instead, for trains that have been equipped and are taking part in the test—so far, only a selection of first-class cars—passengers will use the Amtrak app, and click on the “Check In” button. Once the button is tapped, the app asks the passenger to scan a QR code above his or her reserved seat.
Once the QR code is scanned, the conductor won’t need to ask for a ticket; the scanner used by conductors will already know that check-in is complete.
Amtrak is hoping to soon have its new fleet of updated Acela trains in service after long delays, and will likely roll the new system out across that fleet if the trials are successful.
