The Federal Administration (FRA) Automated Track Inspection Program (ATIP) helps America's railroads improve railroad quality and safety under statutes mandated by Congress. ATIP cars conduct operational surveys of the United States rail transportation network determining railroad compliance with Federal Track Safety Standards (FTSS). The Engineering, Technology and Automation Division schedules ATIP inspections, manages and distributes track geometry condition data, and provides contractual oversight for the program.
In addition, the ATIP data is used to assess the effectiveness of railroads' track maintenance and inspection processes, provides data to assess track safety trends, and provides data to railroads to assist In making repairs and improving safety and maintenance quality. The ATIP program also supports FRA Research and Development projects for the advancement of track inspection technologies and improvement of railroad safety.