AAR lays out Positive Train Control goals for 2016

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) recently released background information about Positive Train Control (PTC) technology, which is now a high priority for all freight railroads in the U.S. to install.

It is important that all freight railroads to install and implement PTC technology as soon as possible.

PTC has been field-tested to guarantee that it is safe to be installed. Unfortunately, as of today, rail operators have seen a PTC failure rate of 40 percent. It is important to test all PTC equipment in labs, as well as within specific pilot territories, as proper testing is important for safety.

The AAR intends for there to be significant success in installing PTC technology this year. In 2016, AAR wants PTC installed in 63 percent of all 22,066 U.S. locomotives, 38 percent of the 60,153 route miles, 87 percent of over 32,654 track-side signal systems and 77 percent of the 3,968 base statin radios. In addition, 51 percent of the industry’s 114,515 employees must have proper PTC training.

Currently, U.S. freight railroads have invested over $6 billion in PTC, and billions more will be invested as the railroads begin to install, as well as implement, the new technology. Experts estimate that the total cost of PTC will amount to $9 billion or $10 billion.