The rumor about the BNSF Railway banning all steam on its system is just that.. a RUMOR!! This is completely false and BNSF has NOT had any policy changes in their special moves for mainline steam. The SP 4449 along with the other mainline steam locomotives are still able to operate on BNSF mainlines under the Amtrak insurance umbrella for passenger excursions or unless they participate in a BNSF event. The Amtrak insurance rate was increased so it has become more costly to operate mainline steam excursions. When an excursion is able to operate, be sure and support them and purchase a ticket and ride!! Los Angeles is a very busy rail traffic area on every railroad. It is a tough environment to schedule any "extra specials" on the busy freight mainlines no matter what is pulling the train Steam or Diesel.