Amtrak to simplify fare structure

Amtrak yesterday announced it soon will introduce a simplified fare structure with more flexible and affordable options.

Scheduled to launch later this fall, the simpler fare structure builds on other recent improvements Amtrak has made to the booking experience, Amtrak officials said in a press release.

The new structure will reduce fare types from three categories and makes fare types more clearly differentiated and easier to understand, they said.

The fare types are:

• Flex, for riders who want a more flexible travel option. Tickets will be fully refundable if canceled and can be changed without fees before departure;

• Value, for riders who know their travel plans and want a more affordable option. Value tickets will cost less than Flex tickets, will be nonchangeable and receive a 75% refund if canceled.

Tickets purchased prior to the launch of the new simplified fare structure will remain subject to existing fare rules and conditions.