Amtrak to Allow Passengers to Bid for Upgrades with New ‘BidUp’ Service

Amtrak’s Metropolitan Lounge at Moynihan Train Hall

Amtrak, the operator of most of the United States’ passenger rail services, announced it would offer passengers the opportunity to bid for business-class or first-class seats on its trains.

“All Amtrak customers enjoy roomy seats and legroom,” the railroad said in a statement, noting that those who want “even more comfort and amenities” can bid on such upgrades with its new BidUp service.

BidUp is available for all bookings up to two hours prior to departure.  Business-class seats are available on most corridor routes and first-class seats are available on Acela trains.

There is no fee for bidding and Amtrak said it would offer suggested bids to increase the chance of winning the upgrade.

Customers with winning bids will receive new tickets prior to the scheduled departure time.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)