An Amtrak Flag Stop

An Amtrak flag stop allows service to stations with lower passenger numbers, but is still valuable. The trains stop at these stations if passengers are scheduled to board or disembark. This guide explains how flag stops work, what travelers should consider when booking, and provides tips for ensuring a smooth journey. Understanding flag stops can enhance the flexibility and convenience of your Amtrak trip, whether you’re traveling to a remote destination or a lesser-served station.

Much of this information also applies to commuter railroads.

What Is an Amtrak Flag Stop, and How Does It Work?

An Amtrak flag stop happens when the train stops to pick up or drop off passengers who have made reservations for that location. If no passengers have reservations at that stop, the train will continue to pass by the station at track speed.

How did flag stops used to work?

In the past, when someone wanted the train to stop, the station agent would wave a flag to signal the engineer. If no one waved a flag as the train approached, it would continue along its route without stopping. (In case you’re wondering, I’m unsure if they used one flag or two!)

Nowadays, with electronics, people no longer need to wave flags to signal the train to stop. I realize that can be disappointing for some.

The Difference Between A Flag And A Regular Train Stop

At regular stops, the train comes to a complete stop, regardless of whether anyone is boarding. If the train is ahead of schedule, it will wait at the station until the scheduled departure time.

However, at flag stops, the train only stops if one or more passengers are booked to board or disembark at those locations.

Why Do Passenger Railroads Use Flag Stops?

Flag stops enable railroads to operate more efficiently in areas with low passenger traffic.

Stopping and staring at a train requires a lot of energy, so skipping unnecessary stops helps save time and fuel. Even slowing down at a flag stop uses less energy than a complete stop. Additionally, bypassing stops can help late trains recover lost time and improve overall scheduling.

Is Amtrak The Only Railroad With Flag Stops?

Amtrak is not the only passenger railroad that uses flag stops; commuter railroads, such as Metra and the South Shore Line, as well as others across the United States, also commonly use them. (I ride those closest to me, so I know them best.)

Things are slightly different if you use a flag stop on a commuter rail. Sadly, there are still no flags to wave, but for some people, that is a selling point.

At commuter flag stops, ensure you are on the platform before the scheduled time so engineers can see you. Sometimes, you may need to press a button to make a light go off, so they know to stop the train.

Dual-Role Stations: Flag and Regular Stops

An example of a station that serves both functions is the former Illinois Central Station in Kankakee, IL. It is a regular stop for regional Amtrak trains and a flag stop for the long-distance City of New Orleans.

The levels of passenger traffic for a route can determine whether it is a flag stop or a regular stop. If an existing stop is already available, using it as a flag stop for a different route is straightforward.

Regional trains, which experience higher demand, make regular stops, while long-distance trains utilize flag stops to maintain efficiency and ensure timely service without unnecessary delays.

Arriving At An Amtrak Flag Stop

If a flag-stop station is their final destination, the train will stop as usual to allow passengers to board. Listen for announcements, as not all doors may open.

Please notify the conductor on non-Amtrak commuter trains if you would like to get off at a flag stop.

Boarding At Amtrak Flag Stop

When your journey begins at a flag stop, the train will stop for you as long as you have booked your ticket.

As the train approaches, the conductor checks if anyone is scheduled to board and informs the engineers whether to stop. This system eliminates the need for physical signals, such as waving flags. To ensure the train stops for you, book your ticket in advance—it’s like waving a virtual flag.

If you have questions, check out my post about boarding Amtrak Trains.

Ensuring that the engineer can see you when riding non-Amtrak commuter trains is crucial. If they cannot, they will not stop.

In some cases, you may need to do something. For example, once on the Southshore Line, I had to press a button to alert the train crew. Take a quick look around to see if there’s anything else you need to do to ensure your visibility is optimal. It’s the closest thing to waving a flag I’ve ever had to do.

How Do I Know If A Station Is An Amtrak Flag Stop?

A few years ago, Amtrak schedules indicated flag stops at a glance. These days, it is a little more complicated. If you have a train ticket, you have nothing to worry about, and you can treat it like an unstaffed station.

The easiest way is to look up the station on the Amtrak website or app. Another option is to find the route on this site and click the station.

Parking At Unstaffed Stations

Amtrak stations offer various parking options; however, local communities establish regulations that are subject to change. It’s best to research parking before your trip.

If you prefer to make a phone call, contact City Hall or local authorities, such as the police. If you choose not to make calls, check the community’s website, look for signs at the station, or ask nearby businesses.

To avoid last-minute stress, consider using rideshare services or arranging a drop-off. That way, parking won’t be an issue, and you won’t miss your train.

How to Check the Train Status for Amtrak Flag Stops

To stay informed about your train, you can sign up for email or text alerts during booking or afterward—no reservation number is required. Others can also receive updates.

You can also check the Amtrak app or website, use third-party sites, or follow Amtrak Alerts on Twitter for real-time information. Learn more about how to track Amtrak trains. 

While Amtrak aims to stay on schedule, delays can occur due to freight traffic, weather, or other factors, and trains can’t always take alternate routes.

Setting Expectations for Amtrak Flag Stop

Flag stops are typically unstaffed, often featuring just a platform, although a shelter may be available.

At these stations, baggage is limited to carry-on only; conductors and onboard staff can assist you in loading your belongings onto the train.

Accommodations can vary. Unless the community offers free Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi is usually not available, and bathroom and baggage services may not be available.

Once the train arrives, the onboard staff will assist with boarding and disembarking.

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How to Prepare for an Amtrak Flag Stop

You and your travel companions can prepare for your adventure in several ways. If needed, request assistance when booking; that way, the train staff will be better prepared and looking out for you.

Here are a few things I do to help me prepare for my trips, whether it’s a flag stop or any other station. The best advice I can offer is to bring patience, set realistic expectations, and be prepared to adjust to what happens.

At Home Preparation:

• Have things printed out, if you’d like, such as tickets and schedules.
• Pack light and keep your tickets in a place that is easily accessible.
• Before leaving, track your train to confirm it’s on time and check if it’s running on schedule.
• If you are a sleeper, please note your car and room numbers, which are listed on your ticket. Knowing this information will help you board smoothly.
  • Coach passengers receive their seat assignments during the boarding process.
• Charge your portable charger for your electronics.
  • A battery pack can help ensure you have the power when you need it.

Essential Tips:

• Verify travel dates and information to avoid mix-ups.
• Be aware of the parking rules at your station if you plan to drive.
• Ensure your bags follow Amtrak’s latest baggage rules.
  • Bags usually cannot be checked at flag stops, but you may check them later if you have a connecting train.

At The Station:

• Have your tickets ready (either paper or digital).
• Arrive early; the trains will not wait for you if you are late.
• Stand on the platform so you can be seen and are ready to board.

Snacks & Food:

• Pack some snacks and bring a water bottle to energize you while waiting or on the train.
• If you arrive at the station early, you can relax at a nearby place before departure, but return to the platform early.

Amtrak Flag Stop Wrap-up

Flag stops are not a cause for concern. Being prepared will help ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible. Avoid packing more than you can manage when getting on and off the train. While this article covers the basics, I recommend checking the articles on unstaffed and platform stations for a more in-depth look.

Safe Travels!

Kev

12082020