The Association of American Railroads (AAR) is an industry trade group representing primarily the major freight railroads of North America (Canada, Mexico and the United States).[2]Amtrak and some regional commuter railroads are also members. Smaller freight railroads are typically represented by the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA), although some smaller railroads and railroad holding companies are also members of the AAR. The AAR also has two associate programs, and most associates are suppliers to the railroad industry.
Railinc, the Association of American Railroads’ IT subsidiary based in Cary, North Carolina, operates key systems such as Umler, the Interline Settlement System, and the Embargoes system, supporting North American rail operations. Handling about nine million daily EDI messages, it serves railroads, equipment owners, and suppliers, and maintains the industry’s official code tables. Originally an AAR department, it became a for-profit subsidiary in 1999.[citation needed]
Where appropriate, the AAR represents its members' interests to the public at large and to Congress and government regulators in particular. The AAR works to improve the efficiency, safety and service of the railroad industry, such as through its responsibility for the industry's interchange rules and equipment specifications, e.g. for locomotive multiple unit control.[4]
In November 2013 the AAR urged the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to press for improved tank car safety by requiring all tank cars used to transport flammable liquids to be retrofitted or phased out, and new cars be built to more stringent standards."[5]
↑ "AAR Members". Association of American Railroads. nd. Retrieved 16 August 2023.
Further reading
Middleton, William D.; Smerk, George M.; Diehl, Roberta L., eds. (2007). Encyclopedia of North American Railroads. Indiana University Press. pp.149–50.
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