On-time performance (OTP) is a tool used to measure passenger train performance, calculated by taking the total number of trains arriving “on-time” at the end-point of the run divided by the total number of trains operated on the run.

WHEN IS A TRAIN “ON-TIME“?
• A train must arrive at the station within the allowed number of minutes of its scheduled arrival time. The number of minutes varies based on the number of total miles traveled.
• Trains traveling 250 miles (or less are allowed a 10-minute tolerance.
• Trains traveling over 550 miles are allowed a 30-minute tolerance (the maximum cushion allowed). 

END-POINT... FOR WHOM?

• Amtrak offers financial incentives to host railroads that perform well, but OTP is currently only calculated and measured at the end-point of a train route.
• The Rail Passengers Association has advocated before the Surface Transportation Board that Amtrak should be able to measure “all-stations” OTP rather than just “end-point.” 
• End-point measurement means a passenger could get off the Cardinal in Charlottesville, VA three hours late and still be counted as “on-time” if the train arrives in New York City within 30 minutes of its scheduled arrival. 
• Only around 10% of train passengers will ride a given long-distance train from start to finish. 

All-stations OTP would ensure fairness for both small town and big city passengers. 

TRAINS SERVING NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA AND ASSOCIATED ON TIME TOLERANCES

Piedmont (Raleigh-Charlotte) - 10 mins
Carolinian (New York-Charlotte) - 30 mins
Palmetto (New York-Savannah) - 30 mins
Crescent (New York-New Orleans) - 30 mins
Silver Star (New York-Tampa/Miami) - 30 mins
Silver Star (New York-Miami) - 30 mins