Jul 6, 2013, 11:41 am
Last edit by: themicah
THIS PROGRAM APPEARS TO HAVE ENDED IN EARLY 2020.
Overview
Prior to 2020, Amtrak operated a codeshare program with United. The codeshare program permits passengers to connect via Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with train service to/from these train stations:
(NB: Codeshare trains are not available from Washington, DC or Boston, MA.)
These destinations are all along Amtrak's Northeast Corridor (NEC) line. The most popular codeshare origin/destination is ZFV (30th Street Train Station in Philadelphia, PA) since fares that are valid to PHL are often also valid to ZFV, and they can be quite cheap.
The codeshare trains are regular scheduled trains on Amtrak's Northeast Regional service. The trains stop at the Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) rail link station, where passengers can board the AirTrain (monorail) to the terminals and proceed to your connecting flight. Passengers in possession of an Amtrak ticket, including through the codeshare program, travel on the AirTrain for free.
Earning Miles (PQMs/PQSs, PQDs, and RDMs) on Amtrak
Codeshare train segments earn 325/250 RDMs (depending on purchased fare class -- see link), 0 PQMs/PQSs, and 0 PQDs one-way. (Note: This is a change from the pre-merger days (Continental Airlines) where you would earn EQMs.) You will only earn these miles by actually riding the train.
You can also earn Mileage Plus RDM miles on Amtrak via Acela Express. See more details at the following URL:
http://www.united.com/CMS/en-US/Mark...es/Amtrak.aspx
Other General Pointers
Here are a few important points that have been mentioned in this thread:
Checked Luggage
Train to Plane
There is no luggage transfer service between the train and Newark Airport (EWR). You must take your luggage to the same check-in point you would normally use--skycap, ticket counter, etc. Your baggage will not be transferred from the train to your flight. (Amtrak trains serving EWR do not have checked baggage service, and so you'll need to carry your bags onto and off of the train anyway.)
Plane to Train
When your flight arrives at EWR, your bags will only be checked to EWR (airport) and you must claim your luggage at the baggage claim. Once you have claimed your bags, proceed to the airport train station via the AirTrain (last stop, after P4). There is no checked baggage service on Amtrak trains at the EWR train station, but overhead luggage racks offer generous amounts of space, and many cars have an oversized luggage rack at one of the ends of the car (near the restrooms).
Printing Your Ticket
Online check-in through United will give you a "fake" boarding pass for the train segments. This "fake" boarding pass is not valid for transportation on Amtrak. You must obtain your train ticket from the Amtrak Quik-Trak machine or Amtrak agent at the train station of your departure and at Newark Airport train station for your return.
ZFV, ZTF, ZVE, ZWI
To pick up your ticket, go to an Amtrak kiosk on the same calendar day as your departure (won't work on the day before, even if within 24h) and swipe your credit card/ID. Tap 'Pick Up Ticket' (Or something to that effect), then 'Codeshare', then 'United Air/Rail Customer' and input your train's UA-coded 'flight' number, usually a 66XX number. It will locate your record and spit out your train ticket and a receipt, if you wish.
Other Stations
Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL with your time/date and train number that you will be traveling to obtain your Amtrak Passenger Name Record (PNR). Keep in mind that this is not the same as your United reservation number! You must call to get the Amtrak PNR. Once you have that information, you may go to any Quik-Trak machine (such as Penn Station) to print your Amtrak ticket.
Skipping ZFV-EWR/EWR-ZFV Segment
The purpose of the Amtrak codeshare is to provide service for those who are traveling to or from the codeshare-eligible cities. Frequently abusing the Amtrak codeshare program to travel to or from EWR while skipping the Amtrak segment puts one at risk to you (like losing your MileagePlus account) as well as jeopardize the continuation of the program.
All of that said, sometimes there are situations where you might not end up wanting to take the train. If you do so, you will almost certainly want to book the trip as two one-ways. Fares to/from ZFV are usually one-way fares, so this will not make your trip more expensive.
The scenarios below are categorized as low-risk, medium-risk, or high-risk.
Here are the scenarios:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I benefit from a schedule change?
If there is a schedule change, you can ask United to drop the ZFV-EWR segment. For example: I'm EWR based, but was "flying" ZFV-EWR-XXX. Originally, I had a 1 hour, 40 minute layover @ EWR, which got changed to a 1 hour 10 minute layover. I said I wasn't comfortable with that short of a connection time (since you have to take the monorail and clear security). I was able to drop the first segment (ZFV-EWR) without any trouble (and thus avoiding a "re-position" to ZFV).
Why would I want to book a train segment instead of just ticketing from Newark?
The best reason is that you actually want to get to one of the codeshare cities! Of course, there are also less straightforward reasons. Due to the competitive airline markets -- especially Philadelphia -- the ticket prices are often much less expensive using the train segments and a “connection” at the Newark Rail Station. Often times, other rail station ticketing points have fares that are less expensive than ticketing directly from EWR.
Can I obtain my Amtrak ticket at another location – say NY Penn Station?
According to the official rules, no. Quik-Trak machines not at codeshare stations (ZFV, ZWI, etc.) will not natively print codeshare tickets. Members here have reported mixed success in obtaining their Amtrak tickets from Amtrak ticket offices.
Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL to ensure your reservation is in their system before attempting to obtain your ticket at an Amtrak ticket office. United train segments are generally placed in the Amtrak system 24-48 hours in advance of your travel (the official policy is 36 hours, but others have reported that conflicts with reality and is often less than a day in advance). When you call Amtrak, you will need to know your train number and date of travel. The Amtrak phone agent can give you the Amtrak confirmation code (PNR, different from your United PNR), which may be helpful when picking up your ticket--you might be able to get non-codeshare-station Quik-Trak machines to print your ticket using this confirmation number.
When dealing with a human ticket agent, most Amtrak ticketing personnel are not familiar with these type of tickets and will need the “assistance” of the Amtrak support desk, generally, to issue your ticket.
If you cannot obtain your paper ticket in advance, you may have luck having the conductor search for you by name after you board the train. You can also give the conductor the Amtrak PNR you obtained by phone, but conductors seem to prefer looking by name anyway. Note that at some staffed stations (like Philadelphia and New York Penn), gate agents will not let you onto the boarding platform without a valid ticket. Additionally, when you arrive at EWR, you won't be able to proceed through the gate to board the AirTrain without either a valid Amtrak ticket or a New Jersey Transit AirTrain Access Fee ticket, which can be bought inside the EWR station for $5.50.
I want to drive/taxi/walk to the airport, do I actually have to obtain my ticket in Philadelphia and ride the train?
Technically, you are supposed to ride the train. If you fail to print your train ticket from an Amtrak kiosk prior to the train's scheduled departure from ZFV, your UA reservation will be cancelled. (Note: this may have changed since Amtrak's changeover to e-ticketing, since printing a paper boarding pass no longer affects the reservation's ticketed/unticketed status.) If you pick up your ticket but then fail to have a conductor scan your ticket, the remainder of your United flight reservation will likely be canceled within 24 hours and possibly sooner.
Can I board the train at a different point than PHL if I have my train ticket?
YES! You can board the train at any station along the way – Metropark, Princeton Junction, or (if you are traveling from points North) even New York Penn Station.
Can I pay the difference in Amtrak fare to travel beyond the point to which I am ticketed?
No. (Confirmed as no longer true by FlyerTalk's Amtrak lurker, AGR Insider, in this thread.)
Much of the information in this wiki was originally put together by FlyerTalk user martig4. Some of the FAQ information dates back to 2004 and could be no longer applicable, so please feel free to edit this wiki and help ensure its contents contain the most up-to-date information!
Known Issues
The Amtrak codeshare is pretty great. But there are certain aspects that make taking the train-plane tougher than your garden-variety connecting flight. In hopes that some of these might be able to get fixed, here's a short list of them:
Archive thread United-Amtrak Codeshare FAQ - Including ZFV (Philadelphia) {Archive}
Overview
Prior to 2020, Amtrak operated a codeshare program with United. The codeshare program permits passengers to connect via Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with train service to/from these train stations:
- ZFV – Philadelphia 30th Street
- ZTF – Stamford, CT
- ZVE – New Haven, CT
- ZWI – Wilmington, DE
(NB: Codeshare trains are not available from Washington, DC or Boston, MA.)
These destinations are all along Amtrak's Northeast Corridor (NEC) line. The most popular codeshare origin/destination is ZFV (30th Street Train Station in Philadelphia, PA) since fares that are valid to PHL are often also valid to ZFV, and they can be quite cheap.
The codeshare trains are regular scheduled trains on Amtrak's Northeast Regional service. The trains stop at the Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) rail link station, where passengers can board the AirTrain (monorail) to the terminals and proceed to your connecting flight. Passengers in possession of an Amtrak ticket, including through the codeshare program, travel on the AirTrain for free.
Earning Miles (PQMs/PQSs, PQDs, and RDMs) on Amtrak
Codeshare train segments earn 325/250 RDMs (depending on purchased fare class -- see link), 0 PQMs/PQSs, and 0 PQDs one-way. (Note: This is a change from the pre-merger days (Continental Airlines) where you would earn EQMs.) You will only earn these miles by actually riding the train.
You can also earn Mileage Plus RDM miles on Amtrak via Acela Express. See more details at the following URL:
http://www.united.com/CMS/en-US/Mark...es/Amtrak.aspx
Other General Pointers
Here are a few important points that have been mentioned in this thread:
- The train tickets are for the coach section only.
- United codeshare tickets operated by Amtrak are not valid on any other train (including Acela) besides your scheduled ticketed train as all trains on the NEC are reserved.
- It takes approximately 10 minutes (once you board) to travel between the Newark Airport Rail Station and Terminal C via the Airtrain (monorail).
- If you plan to do anything other than take the train exactly as ticketed (e.g., skip the train, pick up tickets at a different station, etc.), you need to be careful. Details on this issue are below.
- Misconnections between Amtrak and Newark will be accommodated in the same manner as if you had taken a flight segment and were not able to make your connecting flight. Simply explain to the EWR agent that you're connecting to/from Amtrak.
Checked Luggage
Train to Plane
There is no luggage transfer service between the train and Newark Airport (EWR). You must take your luggage to the same check-in point you would normally use--skycap, ticket counter, etc. Your baggage will not be transferred from the train to your flight. (Amtrak trains serving EWR do not have checked baggage service, and so you'll need to carry your bags onto and off of the train anyway.)
Plane to Train
When your flight arrives at EWR, your bags will only be checked to EWR (airport) and you must claim your luggage at the baggage claim. Once you have claimed your bags, proceed to the airport train station via the AirTrain (last stop, after P4). There is no checked baggage service on Amtrak trains at the EWR train station, but overhead luggage racks offer generous amounts of space, and many cars have an oversized luggage rack at one of the ends of the car (near the restrooms).
Printing Your Ticket
Online check-in through United will give you a "fake" boarding pass for the train segments. This "fake" boarding pass is not valid for transportation on Amtrak. You must obtain your train ticket from the Amtrak Quik-Trak machine or Amtrak agent at the train station of your departure and at Newark Airport train station for your return.
ZFV, ZTF, ZVE, ZWI
To pick up your ticket, go to an Amtrak kiosk on the same calendar day as your departure (won't work on the day before, even if within 24h) and swipe your credit card/ID. Tap 'Pick Up Ticket' (Or something to that effect), then 'Codeshare', then 'United Air/Rail Customer' and input your train's UA-coded 'flight' number, usually a 66XX number. It will locate your record and spit out your train ticket and a receipt, if you wish.
Other Stations
Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL with your time/date and train number that you will be traveling to obtain your Amtrak Passenger Name Record (PNR). Keep in mind that this is not the same as your United reservation number! You must call to get the Amtrak PNR. Once you have that information, you may go to any Quik-Trak machine (such as Penn Station) to print your Amtrak ticket.
Skipping ZFV-EWR/EWR-ZFV Segment
The purpose of the Amtrak codeshare is to provide service for those who are traveling to or from the codeshare-eligible cities. Frequently abusing the Amtrak codeshare program to travel to or from EWR while skipping the Amtrak segment puts one at risk to you (like losing your MileagePlus account) as well as jeopardize the continuation of the program.
All of that said, sometimes there are situations where you might not end up wanting to take the train. If you do so, you will almost certainly want to book the trip as two one-ways. Fares to/from ZFV are usually one-way fares, so this will not make your trip more expensive.
The scenarios below are categorized as low-risk, medium-risk, or high-risk.
- Low-risk scenarios are unlikely to result in cancelled segments; the risks here include UA coming after you if you do it frequently, and the possibility of being routed directly to PHL in IRROPS.
- Medium-risk scenarios are those where some people have reported cancelled segments, particularly if there is enough lag time between the Amtrak segment and one or more of the United segments for the systems to sync up; sometimes you can get an agent to reinstate canceled segments/trip for no charge but seating assignment and upgrades will probably be lost.
- High-risk scenarios are those where some segments are almost certain to be cancelled.
Here are the scenarios:
- Booking One Way or Round Trip: ZFV-EWR-XXX, boarding ZFV-EWR downline (e.g. at TRE or MET) - No risk (subject to obtaining your train ticket--see below)
- Booking One Way: ZFV-EWR-XXX, Skipping ZFV-EWR only - Medium-risk
- Booking One Way: XXX-EWR-ZFV, Skipping EWR-ZFV only - Low-risk
- Booking Round Trip: ZFV-EWR-XXX, Skipping ZFV-EWR only - High-risk
- Booking Round Trip: XXX-EWR-ZFV, Skipping ZFV-EWR only - Medium-risk
- Booking Round Trip: ZFV-EWR-XXX, Skipping EWR-ZFV only - Low-risk
- Booking Round Trip: XXX-EWR-ZFV, Skipping EWR-ZFV only - High-risk
- Booking Round Trip: ZFV-EWR-XXX -OR- XXX-EWR-ZFV, Skipping ZFV-EWR and EWR-ZFV - High-risk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I benefit from a schedule change?
If there is a schedule change, you can ask United to drop the ZFV-EWR segment. For example: I'm EWR based, but was "flying" ZFV-EWR-XXX. Originally, I had a 1 hour, 40 minute layover @ EWR, which got changed to a 1 hour 10 minute layover. I said I wasn't comfortable with that short of a connection time (since you have to take the monorail and clear security). I was able to drop the first segment (ZFV-EWR) without any trouble (and thus avoiding a "re-position" to ZFV).
Why would I want to book a train segment instead of just ticketing from Newark?
The best reason is that you actually want to get to one of the codeshare cities! Of course, there are also less straightforward reasons. Due to the competitive airline markets -- especially Philadelphia -- the ticket prices are often much less expensive using the train segments and a “connection” at the Newark Rail Station. Often times, other rail station ticketing points have fares that are less expensive than ticketing directly from EWR.
Can I obtain my Amtrak ticket at another location – say NY Penn Station?
According to the official rules, no. Quik-Trak machines not at codeshare stations (ZFV, ZWI, etc.) will not natively print codeshare tickets. Members here have reported mixed success in obtaining their Amtrak tickets from Amtrak ticket offices.
Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL to ensure your reservation is in their system before attempting to obtain your ticket at an Amtrak ticket office. United train segments are generally placed in the Amtrak system 24-48 hours in advance of your travel (the official policy is 36 hours, but others have reported that conflicts with reality and is often less than a day in advance). When you call Amtrak, you will need to know your train number and date of travel. The Amtrak phone agent can give you the Amtrak confirmation code (PNR, different from your United PNR), which may be helpful when picking up your ticket--you might be able to get non-codeshare-station Quik-Trak machines to print your ticket using this confirmation number.
When dealing with a human ticket agent, most Amtrak ticketing personnel are not familiar with these type of tickets and will need the “assistance” of the Amtrak support desk, generally, to issue your ticket.
If you cannot obtain your paper ticket in advance, you may have luck having the conductor search for you by name after you board the train. You can also give the conductor the Amtrak PNR you obtained by phone, but conductors seem to prefer looking by name anyway. Note that at some staffed stations (like Philadelphia and New York Penn), gate agents will not let you onto the boarding platform without a valid ticket. Additionally, when you arrive at EWR, you won't be able to proceed through the gate to board the AirTrain without either a valid Amtrak ticket or a New Jersey Transit AirTrain Access Fee ticket, which can be bought inside the EWR station for $5.50.
I want to drive/taxi/walk to the airport, do I actually have to obtain my ticket in Philadelphia and ride the train?
Technically, you are supposed to ride the train. If you fail to print your train ticket from an Amtrak kiosk prior to the train's scheduled departure from ZFV, your UA reservation will be cancelled. (Note: this may have changed since Amtrak's changeover to e-ticketing, since printing a paper boarding pass no longer affects the reservation's ticketed/unticketed status.) If you pick up your ticket but then fail to have a conductor scan your ticket, the remainder of your United flight reservation will likely be canceled within 24 hours and possibly sooner.
Can I board the train at a different point than PHL if I have my train ticket?
YES! You can board the train at any station along the way – Metropark, Princeton Junction, or (if you are traveling from points North) even New York Penn Station.
Can I pay the difference in Amtrak fare to travel beyond the point to which I am ticketed?
No. (Confirmed as no longer true by FlyerTalk's Amtrak lurker, AGR Insider, in this thread.)
Much of the information in this wiki was originally put together by FlyerTalk user martig4. Some of the FAQ information dates back to 2004 and could be no longer applicable, so please feel free to edit this wiki and help ensure its contents contain the most up-to-date information!
Known Issues
The Amtrak codeshare is pretty great. But there are certain aspects that make taking the train-plane tougher than your garden-variety connecting flight. In hopes that some of these might be able to get fixed, here's a short list of them:
- The eTicket for the Amtrak segment must be retrieved from a QuikTrak machine or a knowledgable Amtrak station agent, close in to the train trip.
- The Amtrak confirmation number (which is useful for picking up the train ticket) is not provided by United.
- Certain electronic reservation functions (like app boarding passes and automated SDC) are disabled when there is a remaining unused Amtrak segment in a reservation.
- Occasionally, the Amtrak ticket disappears entirely, and neither Amtrak nor United admit that it's their fault. At its worst, this means getting on the train with the risk that the conductor won't accept whatever documentation you have.
- Sometimes, the ticket shows up in Amtrak's system as unpaid.
- Amtrak agents (except station agents at the high-traffic codeshare stations) and United agents (even at EWR) are often ignorant about the program.
- The red phone at the EWR Amtrak station, which can be used to contact a good agent if the EWR ticket desk is unmanned, has a 10-minute call cut-off.
Archive thread United-Amtrak Codeshare FAQ - Including ZFV (Philadelphia) {Archive}
United-Amtrak Codeshare FAQ - Including ZFV (Philadelphia)
Nov 23, 2018, 9:25 pm
#346
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: SEA/ORD/ADB
Programs: TK ELPL (*G), AS 100K (OWE), BA Gold (OWE), Hyatt Globalist, Hilton Diamond, Marriott Plat, IHG Plat
Posts: 7,763
If the ticket was never lifted by Amtrak, OP can probably request a refund from UA after travel and get the prorated refund as well.
Nov 25, 2018, 8:02 pm
#347
Join Date: Oct 2013
Posts: 122
How long does it take for the 250 miles show up in my UA account?
I took a ZFV-EWR-XXX flight, boarding pass scanned by the conductor. United posted my EWR-XXX mileage two days ago, how long will the ZFV-EWR credit show up? Is there any chance that ZFV—EWR segment will be a no show?
i book the round trip, is there any indication that ZFV-EWR becomes a no show, therefore the rest trip will be cancelled.
I tried to change my seat on the XXX-ZFV leg, but a pop up window shows sorry we can not load the seat map.
I took a ZFV-EWR-XXX flight, boarding pass scanned by the conductor. United posted my EWR-XXX mileage two days ago, how long will the ZFV-EWR credit show up? Is there any chance that ZFV—EWR segment will be a no show?
i book the round trip, is there any indication that ZFV-EWR becomes a no show, therefore the rest trip will be cancelled.
I tried to change my seat on the XXX-ZFV leg, but a pop up window shows sorry we can not load the seat map.
Nov 26, 2018, 12:01 am
#348
Moderator: United Airlines
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: SFO
Programs: UA Plat 1.995MM, Hyatt Discoverist, Marriott Plat/LT Gold, Hilton Silver, IHG Plat
Posts: 66,850
No recent experiences, some partner airlines can take 3-4-5 days
UA will not investigate a missing mileage request for rail segments for 15 days
You can only change UA operated flights on united.com. You need to contract Amtrak - phone or online.
UA will not investigate a missing mileage request for rail segments for 15 days
You can only change UA operated flights on united.com. You need to contract Amtrak - phone or online.
Nov 26, 2018, 1:03 pm
#349
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: SGF
Programs: AS, AA, UA, AGR S (former 75K, GLD, 1K, and S+, now an elite peon)
Posts: 23,194
I assume you mean EWR-ZFV, because UA doesn't sell anything other than EWR-ZFV tickets. And EWR-ZFV would be an Amtrak train.
It's not possible to change your seat on the EWR-ZFV leg, because Amtrak does not assign seats, unless you are traveling Acela First Class, which UA does not sell.
Nov 27, 2018, 2:44 am
#350
Join Date: Oct 2013
Posts: 122
What do you mean by "XXX-ZFV"?
I assume you mean EWR-ZFV, because UA doesn't sell anything other than EWR-ZFV tickets. And EWR-ZFV would be an Amtrak train.
It's not possible to change your seat on the EWR-ZFV leg, because Amtrak does not assign seats, unless you are traveling Acela First Class, which UA does not sell.
I assume you mean EWR-ZFV, because UA doesn't sell anything other than EWR-ZFV tickets. And EWR-ZFV would be an Amtrak train.
It's not possible to change your seat on the EWR-ZFV leg, because Amtrak does not assign seats, unless you are traveling Acela First Class, which UA does not sell.
Log in from website, there was the red sign, your ticket has been reassigned. Called UA(on Monday super long wait time), the agent helped me to mark the ZFV-EWR as used. It is fine now.
i did what i am supposed to do, printed the ticket at Amtrak kiosk, had conductor scanned the ticket. I probably will not try it again any time soon.
Nov 27, 2018, 3:31 am
#351
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: CHS
Posts: 2,246
ZWI Question
Howdy all! Now that UA has dropped IAD-PHL, CHS-PHL is pricing crazy high through ORD. Long story short...I want to go CHS-EWR-ZWI (Wilmington, DE). When trying to book through the App, it’s telling me that there are 2 train segments to ZWI and lists the city name as Dover, DE.
Anyone booked to/from ZWI who can confirm it is actually Wilmington? Also...any clue why a one way trip would show the flight to EWR and then 2 train segments?
Anyone booked to/from ZWI who can confirm it is actually Wilmington? Also...any clue why a one way trip would show the flight to EWR and then 2 train segments?
Nov 27, 2018, 11:35 pm
#352
Join Date: Dec 2009
Programs: SPG Plat
Posts: 459
Looks like united.com is broken since yesterday for booking business class flights with an amtrak segment; J/D/P etc show available but United won’t price it..
Nov 27, 2018, 11:38 pm
#353
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Los Angeles / Basel
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Posts: 26,923
I mean XXX-EWR leg.
Log in from website, there was the red sign, your ticket has been reassigned. Called UA(on Monday super long wait time), the agent helped me to mark the ZFV-EWR as used. It is fine now.
i did what i am supposed to do, printed the ticket at Amtrak kiosk, had conductor scanned the ticket. I probably will not try it again any time soon.
Nov 29, 2018, 3:25 pm
#354
Join Date: Mar 2003
Programs: UA silver
Posts: 44
There's been a schedule change on my upcoming ZFV-EWR leg so that now my PNR and e-ticket reference different UA code share numbers and times (e-ticket references UA2044, which doesn't match a train anymore, and the PNR references UA2933, the 660 Keystone service). Normally I wouldn't sweat it...but given all the reports of IT problems in this thread, should I have United re-issue my ticket?
Nov 30, 2018, 11:30 am
#355
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: LAX
Programs: UA Plat MM, CM Plat, Amex Plat, Hertz CP, Hyatt Globalist, SPG Gold, Vons Club
Posts: 6,851
There's been a schedule change on my upcoming ZFV-EWR leg so that now my PNR and e-ticket reference different UA code share numbers and times (e-ticket references UA2044, which doesn't match a train anymore, and the PNR references UA2933, the 660 Keystone service). Normally I wouldn't sweat it...but given all the reports of IT problems in this thread, should I have United re-issue my ticket?
Jan 17, 2019, 2:36 pm
#356
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: NYC - PHL
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Posts: 23
Reservation Changes to United-Amtrak Codeshare
Excellent post. I wanted to reopen this thread and ask a few questions because I believe United and Amtrak changed terms of the codeshare agreement in 2018, which possibly prevents Amtrak agents from modifying train codeshare segments.
I just purchased a round trip ticket for travel in April (two months in the future) on united.com: ZFV-EWR-XXX then returning XXX-EWR-ZFV four days later. The only option for the return required a five hour layover at EWR. There are earlier Amtrak trains (both Saver and Value fares) available on amtrak.com. I would like to change the return EWR-ZFV only.
I called United to change to an earlier train, but the agent said are there are no earlier codeshare trains available. This agent also informed me that both my Amtrak segments are Value fares, which I know are more flexible and expensive than Saver fares, and that I could call Amtrak to change my train codeshare segments, even though my United ticket is an Economy Basic fare and does not allow changes.
I called Amtrak, but my PNR is not available yet so they cannot help me. One Amtrak agent told me it may be possible for Amtrak to change the return train time when I get the PNR (and pay the fare difference or receive a refund if the fare is lower). This agent said Amtrak usually does not inform United about changes to train codeshare segments. A second Amtrak agent told me a revised agreement prevents Amtrak agents from making any modifications to train codeshare segments because only United agents are now permitted to make changes to tickets, even when only the train codeshare segments are being modified.
If anyone has experience with this, would you please respond to my questions?
1. Amtrak train codeshare segments. Are these booked as Saver or Value fares with United tickets?
2. Changes. Are Amtrak agents still able to change a train codeshare segments? Do Amtrak agents inform United about changes?
3. When to change. I would like to do this in advance of my trip to avoid paying a difference in fare and possibly receive a refund if the fare is lower. If I call Amtrak to make the change to my return train codeshare segment before my departure date, could this result in a cancelled Economy Basic United ticket? If there is a risk, I can wait to call Amtrak the day I arrive back to EWR.
Thank you in advance for your help!
I just purchased a round trip ticket for travel in April (two months in the future) on united.com: ZFV-EWR-XXX then returning XXX-EWR-ZFV four days later. The only option for the return required a five hour layover at EWR. There are earlier Amtrak trains (both Saver and Value fares) available on amtrak.com. I would like to change the return EWR-ZFV only.
I called United to change to an earlier train, but the agent said are there are no earlier codeshare trains available. This agent also informed me that both my Amtrak segments are Value fares, which I know are more flexible and expensive than Saver fares, and that I could call Amtrak to change my train codeshare segments, even though my United ticket is an Economy Basic fare and does not allow changes.
I called Amtrak, but my PNR is not available yet so they cannot help me. One Amtrak agent told me it may be possible for Amtrak to change the return train time when I get the PNR (and pay the fare difference or receive a refund if the fare is lower). This agent said Amtrak usually does not inform United about changes to train codeshare segments. A second Amtrak agent told me a revised agreement prevents Amtrak agents from making any modifications to train codeshare segments because only United agents are now permitted to make changes to tickets, even when only the train codeshare segments are being modified.
If anyone has experience with this, would you please respond to my questions?
1. Amtrak train codeshare segments. Are these booked as Saver or Value fares with United tickets?
2. Changes. Are Amtrak agents still able to change a train codeshare segments? Do Amtrak agents inform United about changes?
3. When to change. I would like to do this in advance of my trip to avoid paying a difference in fare and possibly receive a refund if the fare is lower. If I call Amtrak to make the change to my return train codeshare segment before my departure date, could this result in a cancelled Economy Basic United ticket? If there is a risk, I can wait to call Amtrak the day I arrive back to EWR.
Thank you in advance for your help!
Last edited by New to PHL; Jan 18, 2019 at 4:02 am Reason: Edited itinerary
Jan 17, 2019, 4:36 pm
#357
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Very interesting points that you bring up. I haven’t traveled that route for quite some time now because rates into PHL have been better then to ZFV . However, in the past I was always able to make changes with Amtrak, about the new modification rule I knew nothing of that. Is it in writing anywhere? Thanks for posting
Jan 17, 2019, 4:56 pm
#358
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Welcome to FT!, New to PHL
While this may be true, always take such a statement with some skepticism until you hear the same statement from multiple agents. some customer service agents (any company, any industry) will say "something" to get you moved on when they are unable to help but what they say may or may not be reality.
.... A second Amtrak agent told me a revised agreement prevents Amtrak agents from making any modifications to train codeshare segments because only United agents are now permitted to make changes to tickets, even when only the train codeshare segments are being modified....
Jan 17, 2019, 4:58 pm
#359
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Thank you for your reply. The second Amtrak agent, who seemed well informed, read excerpts from what I believe was an internal memo available for Amtrak agents.
I will try to change the ticket, but may wait until my return date. Some agents may process the change, even if the new guideline does exist.
After reading prior helpful posts about schedule differences between United/Amtrak codeshare trains and missing reservations, when I receive my Amtrak PNR, I will confirm it includes identical codeshare train numbers to my United itinerary. When I booked my ticket, I noticed a three minute time departure time difference for ZFV-EWR. A United agent said this was due to outdated schedules, but I do not want any ticketing issues when I arrive at ZFV.
Thank you to diburning for answer my questions and for proving advice.
FOLLOW UP FROM TRIP:
I wanted to write to thank everyone and write that I was able to change my Amtrak ticket and get on an earlier train for my return home, even tough this was an Economy Basic fare. In fact, I changed my train twice! First, I asked a United agent at the transfer desk outside customs. The agent called someone and they put me on a train that departed in one hour (my original train departed in four hours). Second, I called Amtrak Guest Rewards while walking to the Amtrak station and the agent put me on a train that departed in 30 minutes. Regarding the type of fare, these are not Saver or Value fares, they are a special United fare class. Thankfully, the trains I wanted had inventory. The only issue with UA/Amtrak ticket was that I had to apply for a mileage credit for the Amtrak segments because these did not post automatically.
I will try to change the ticket, but may wait until my return date. Some agents may process the change, even if the new guideline does exist.
After reading prior helpful posts about schedule differences between United/Amtrak codeshare trains and missing reservations, when I receive my Amtrak PNR, I will confirm it includes identical codeshare train numbers to my United itinerary. When I booked my ticket, I noticed a three minute time departure time difference for ZFV-EWR. A United agent said this was due to outdated schedules, but I do not want any ticketing issues when I arrive at ZFV.
Thank you to diburning for answer my questions and for proving advice.
FOLLOW UP FROM TRIP:
I wanted to write to thank everyone and write that I was able to change my Amtrak ticket and get on an earlier train for my return home, even tough this was an Economy Basic fare. In fact, I changed my train twice! First, I asked a United agent at the transfer desk outside customs. The agent called someone and they put me on a train that departed in one hour (my original train departed in four hours). Second, I called Amtrak Guest Rewards while walking to the Amtrak station and the agent put me on a train that departed in 30 minutes. Regarding the type of fare, these are not Saver or Value fares, they are a special United fare class. Thankfully, the trains I wanted had inventory. The only issue with UA/Amtrak ticket was that I had to apply for a mileage credit for the Amtrak segments because these did not post automatically.
Last edited by New to PHL; May 13, 2019 at 8:32 pm Reason: merging consecutive posts by same member; adding intention to confirm codeshare train numbers
Jan 18, 2019, 5:01 am
#360
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1. Amtrak train codeshare segments. Are these booked as Saver or Value fares with United tickets?
2. Changes. Are Amtrak agents still able to change a train codeshare segments? Do Amtrak agents inform United about changes?
3. When to change. I would like to do this in advance of my trip to avoid paying a difference in fare and possibly receive a refund if the fare is lower. If I call Amtrak to make the change to my return train codeshare segment before my departure date, could this result in a cancelled Economy Basic United ticket? If there is a risk, I can wait to call Amtrak the day I arrive back to EWR.
2. Changes. Are Amtrak agents still able to change a train codeshare segments? Do Amtrak agents inform United about changes?
3. When to change. I would like to do this in advance of my trip to avoid paying a difference in fare and possibly receive a refund if the fare is lower. If I call Amtrak to make the change to my return train codeshare segment before my departure date, could this result in a cancelled Economy Basic United ticket? If there is a risk, I can wait to call Amtrak the day I arrive back to EWR.
2. They might be able to. They typically don't inform United, which can cause issues where United doesn't receive info from Amtrak that your ticket has been scanned, so it can cause the rest of your reservation to be cancelled for no show. Since EWR-ZFV is your final segment, you will be fine, but mileage posting may need to be manually requested for the Amtrak leg.
3. United usually doesn't "buy" your ticket on Amtrak until very close in, anywhere from a week prior to departure to a couple days before, so you most likely won't be able to change until very close in.
I would recommend that you attempt to change your Amtrak segment after you arrive at EWR to make sure that you can definitely make an earlier train (just in case of weather IRROPS). Call Amtrak from EWR to make the change.