Is there an app to see where trains are going?

Is There an App to Track Trains Like Planes?

We’re used to effortlessly tracking flights across the globe thanks to apps like Flightradar24. But what about trains? Can you pinpoint the location of a freight train rumbling through the countryside or a commuter train approaching your station with the same ease? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t a straightforward “yes.” While no single, comprehensive train tracking app exists on the scale of Flightradar24, there are some options depending on what you’re looking for.

The biggest hurdle to widespread train tracking is the fragmented nature of the railway system itself. Unlike air travel, which operates within a highly regulated and standardized airspace, railways are a patchwork of private and public ownership, varying technologies, and differing priorities. This makes collecting and disseminating real-time location data a significant challenge.

Amtrak, the primary passenger rail provider in the United States, does offer real-time train tracking on its website. You can input your train number or route and see its current location and estimated arrival time. While not a dedicated app, this functionality is accessible from any web browser on your phone or computer, providing a convenient way to stay updated on your Amtrak journey.

Beyond Amtrak, the situation becomes more complex. Some regional commuter rail services offer their own tracking apps or website features, but coverage is inconsistent. For freight trains, real-time tracking is generally not publicly available due to security and commercial sensitivities. However, some rail enthusiasts have developed tools and techniques for tracking specific trains based on publicly available data, but these are often complex and not user-friendly for the average person.

Interestingly, there’s a niche area where train tracking thrives: historical locomotives. Several organizations dedicated to preserving and operating heritage railways have developed specialized trackers that allow enthusiasts to follow the movements of these historic trains in real-time. This is often facilitated by dedicated GPS trackers installed on the locomotives themselves.

So, while the dream of a comprehensive, Flightradar24-style app for trains remains elusive for now, there are options available depending on your specific needs. Amtrak passengers can easily track their trains online, and enthusiasts of historic railways can follow their favorite locomotives. The future of broader train tracking may rely on greater standardization and data sharing within the rail industry, but for now, it remains a fragmented landscape.