Running a Railroad

Amtrak carried 32 million passengers last year but faced a $171 million operating loss. The profitable Boston-Washington route contrasts with losses on long haul routes like the Crescent. Amtrak's reliance on freight-owned tracks causes delays, contributing to a decline in ridership. CEO Richard Anderson aims to cut costs and restructure routes to attract more passengers, despite opposition from rail enthusiasts and rural senators. His efforts have significantly reduced Amtrak's losses.

What was the financial outcome for Amtrak's Boston to Washington route last year?

• A break-even result

• A loss of $424 million

• A profit of $424 million

• A loss of $171 million

What is one major challenge Amtrak faces due to not owning most of its tracks?

• Increased maintenance costs

• Frequent train breakdowns

• Lengthy delays due to freight line usage

• Higher ticket prices

What was the percentage decline in ridership on Amtrak's longer routes last year?

• 2.5%

• 8.5%

• 4.5%

• 6.5%

What is one of CEO Richard Anderson's strategies to improve Amtrak's financial performance?

• Expanding the network to new cities

• Reducing the number of trains

• Breaking up long routes into shorter trips

• Increasing ticket prices

By what percentage did CEO Anderson manage to cut Amtrak's losses in the most recent fiscal year?

• 82%

• 72%

• 60%

• 50%