Actually, I think Amtrak is pretty clueless on what it takes to have a competitive program. In addition to the blackout dates, there's the booking hassle, the fact that they only have one elite level with no tangible benefits, and a host of other problems. And what do you think of Amtrak's response to all the airlines' Buy Three - Get One Free promotions? Silence - even though AA, US and DL are their direct competitors on the NE Corridor routes. My e-mail complaint on that one was met with a moronic form response, and I have heard nothing further. A good reason to consider dumping the Acela for a few months and going back to the shuttle...