Brightline, CTDOT enhance passenger experience with upgraded internet access on rail systems

Brightline and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) have upgraded the passenger experience with enhanced internet access on its rail systems. 

Brightline brings advanced motorsport-inspired technology to passenger rail 

Brightline has partnered with McLaren Applied to bring advanced motorsport-inspired technology to passenger rail. Brightline says it is one of the first train operators worldwide to deploy this advanced hybrid technology at-scale, enabling more reliable Wi-Fi connection, even at high speeds or in rural areas. The agency says the technology is made possible by McLaren Applied’s Fleet Connect software using their 5G Edge Active Antenna and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications in a world first. 

“Guests want fast and reliable Wi-Fi and this unique partnership will deliver that,” said Brightline Chief Technology and Digital Innovation Officer Kevin McAuliffe. “Elevating the guest experience is at the center of everything we do and leveraging technology partnerships like McLaren Applied puts our guests in the driver’s seat when it comes to internet connectivity.”  

According to Brightline, McLaren Applied developed the software and hardware 20 years ago to overcome the challenge of real-time monitoring of sensors on Formula One race cars at speeds exceeding 200 mph. The result was a suite of high-performance connectivity solutions, including a unique software approach to optimize connectivity in every turn, resulting in near 100 percent coverage at  challenging international racetracks. 

“Rail networks had long struggled with onboard connectivity issues, especially on high-speed trains,” said McLaren Applied Director of Connected Intelligence Pablo Garcia. “Traditional systems can’t efficiently adapt to signal changes or network switching, leading to dropouts. McLaren Applied recognized the parallels between the challenges faced in motorsport and rail, applying expertise to bring a solution that provides the best link aggregation technology tailored to the unique demands of Brightline.” 

The result is Fleet Connect, a software  that facilitates seamless high-speed passenger Wi-Fi connections, as well as operator uplinks for operational, infrastructure and safety purposes. In this occasion, Fleet Connect combines Starlink LEO Satcoms and 5G networks to eliminate blackspots, offering a transformative hybrid connectivity solution. Brightline notes the system is the first to remove routers and RF cables from the train. 

“These innovations were designed with the racing mindset: be ultra-reliable, lightweight and resilient to high speeds and vibrations—attributes that seamlessly translate to rail applications,” Garcia said. 

“As the first modern, intercity passenger rail in a century, we will continue to innovate and provide our guests the best experience possible,” McAuliffe said.  

Brightline anticipates the McLaren Applied system will be operational on all trains by July 2025. 

CTDOT to bring improved internet to Metro-North Railroad New Haven Line 

CTDOT is partnering with AT&T to significantly improve wireless internet service for rail commuters on the Metro-North Railroad New Haven Line. 

Supported by a $6 million investment from AT&T, upgraded infrastructure has been installed and is now fully operational at more than 30 new sites located at strategic intervals along the corridor between New Haven and Connecticut’s western border. The upgrade includes a combination of high-powered macro towers and compact small cell nodes, which are boosting AT&T’s network and delivering faster, more reliable LTE and 5G service. An additional five new sites are expected to launch later this year. 

CTDOT says the project stems from Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont’s broader initiative to improve cellular connectivity and accelerate the deployment of high-speed technology along Connecticut’s rail corridors by setting up a process through public-private partnerships to install this infrastructure on state properties. AT&T engineers collaborated with state and private entities to design a layout and build strategy that maximizes coverage while also minimizing safety risks and disruptions to rail service. CTDOT notes the New Haven Line is the busiest commuter rail line in the U.S. 

“Expanding the availability of high-speed networks is critical if we want to be ahead of the curve on technology that makes our state even more attractive to workers and employers and that includes along our rail corridors, which up until recently contained many dead zones where cellular service would frequently drop,” Gov. Lamont said. “By partnering with telecommunications companies and allowing them to install their equipment on state properties, we can expand high-speed service to more areas and do so in a cost-effective manner. I appreciate AT&T for collaborating with us on this initiative.” 

“Through customer service outreach, we have heard directly from riders that enhanced wireless connectivity is one of the most requested upgrades, and this initiative delivers on exactly that,” said CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “We know from national trends that better onboard service, including reliable wireless service, boosts ridership, and we’re aiming to replicate that success here in Connecticut.”   

CTDOT notes the enhancements at several of the new sites also support FirstNet, a nationwide communications platform dedicated to first responders and others in the public safety community, including the deployment of Band 14 spectrum, which provides prioritized connectivity for emergency services. 

“AT&T’s network enhancements along the New Haven Line greatly benefit commuters, residents and visitors traversing the state,” said AT&T Atlantic Region President John Emra. “Dramatically improved coverage and capacity makes for more productive and enjoyable train experiences and further help make our state a leader in wireless technology. This project became a reality because Gov. Lamont and his team identified a need and spurred industry to action. We’re grateful to be part of this ongoing effort to create a modern, connected and cutting-edge Connecticut.” 

“AT&T’s $6 million investment along the New Haven Line and collaboration with Gov. Lamont’s office is the kind of strategic economic development that will make Connecticut a technology leader,” said President and CEO of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association Chris DiPentima. “Better wireless service means more productivity for commuters. A more enjoyable riding experience overall increases the line’s appeal and the opportunity for economic growth from New Haven to the New York border.”