Amtrak introduces assigned seating on Acela trains

Amtrak has begun offering assigned seating for riders traveling first class on Acela trains.

On select departures, passengers may now choose a single or double seat, a window or an aisle, or a two- or four-person conference table. After evaluating the offering, the railroad aims to introduce seat assignments on more departures this year, Amtrak officials said in a press release.

"By reducing the anxiety and stress of boarding, we're making the onboarding process easier, while continuing to ensure the safety of our customers," said Amtrak Chief Marketing Officer Tim Griffin. "Customers have long requested assigned seats on trains, allowing families, friends and colleagues to sit together."

Riders will be able to change their assigned seat without charge prior to boarding using Amtrak's website or mobile app, or with a ticket agent, Amtrak officials said.

The assigned seating initiative is the railroad's latest effort to improve passenger amenities. Earlier this month, the railroad announced a $4 million plan to update the interiors of the entire Acela Express fleet operating on the Northeast Corridor.

Previously, the railroad followed a first-come, first-served seating policy, which has occasionally led to passengers being unable to find seats during holidays and peak seasons, USA Today reported.