About Us
The Association of American Railroads
America's freight railroads operate the safest, cleanest, most efficient and most environmentally sound rail system in the world — and at the Association of American Railroads we're committed to keeping it that way. AAR members include the major freight railroads in the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as Amtrak. Our membership organization oversees a 140,000-mile rail network and sets new standards for innovation, safety and technology.
Railroads keep America’s economy moving forward. We carry more freight than anyone. And our trains haul a ton of freight an average of 436 miles on one gallon of fuel. We carry everyday products — food, cars, appliances, grains — and we connect American workers to markets across the country and around the world. Our freight trains use less energy more efficiently than any other freight system
An important part of AAR's mission is to work with elected officials and leaders in Washington, D.C. on critical rail transportation issues to ensure that the railroads meet America’s transportation needs today and in the future. The need for freight transportation is expected to skyrocket at the same time as Americans are looking for cleaner and more efficient solutions.
How can AAR members respond to these challenges? By reinvesting and revitalizing our nation’s rail system to meet future freight demands, all the while building a cleaner and safer transportation network.
AAR's Transportation Technology Center (TTCI) is a research, development and testing facility that develops next-generation advancements in safety and operation efficiency. Railinc Corporation, AAR's information technology hub, uses one of the world's largest data networks to help customers track shipments.
Freight railroads meet our nation’s transportation needs today and will have an even more positive impact in the future. AAR members are committed to continuing to provide the affordable, efficient transportation our customers depend on. Railroads are environmentally sensitive, energy efficient, and work tirelessly to build and expand our economy. Anything less is unacceptable because America's future depends on us.