Following the launch of Amtrak’s NextGen Acela, America’s fastest train, this past August, comes the announcement that Amtrak’s new fleet of Airo trains are officially headed to the East Coast!
The first new Amtrak Cascades trainset, part of Amtrak’s bold transformation in passenger rail, wrapped up testing in Pueblo, CO and is officially headed to the Northeast Corridor for additional testing — marking a major milestone on the path to launching new trains on the Amtrak Cascades corridor in 2026.
Known within the industry as part of Amtrak’s Airo fleet, a total of 83 new trainsets will roll out across the country, starting with Amtrak Cascades, followed by the Northeast Regional, and other key routes. Amtrak President Roger Harris stated:
We are thrilled to satisfy the soaring demand for train travel with new state-of-the-art, American-made equipment that ensures the highest standards of comfort, service and amenities.
🚆 A New Era of Rail
Manufactured by Siemens facilities in California and operating at 125 mph, Amtrak Airo is set to redefine travelers’ journeys one route at a time. The trainsets feature Pacific Northwest-inspired design, world-class modern amenities, and regional food and beverage offerings.
By removing engine changes, travelers will be able to cut down transportation times with reduced downtime at certain stations.
🌳 A Greener Journey
Amtrak Airo will produce 90% less particulate emissions in diesel operations, making it a greener option than some older trains.
🚄 Inside Amtrak’s Airo Trains
Designed for safety, comfort, sustainability, and reliability, Amtrak’s Airo trains offer:
- A modern Café Car
- Spacious seating
- Enhanced lighting
- Touchless restroom controls
- Panoramic windows
- Improved accessibility
🛤️ Train Routes
Customers will initially experience new Amtrak Airo trains on the following routes:
- Northeast Regional
- Empire Service
- Keystone Service
- Amtrak Downeaster
- Amtrak Cascades
- Maple Leaf
- Adirondack
- Palmetto
- Carolinian
- Pennsylvanian
- Vermonter
- Amtrak Virginia Services
- Ethan Allen Express
- New Haven-SpringfieldGreenfield Service
🗽 What This Means for New Yorkers
For New Yorkers traveling out of Moynihan Train Hall, Amtrak’s Airo trains will mean a more modern, comfortable, and efficient travel experience.
Amtrak’s Airo trains are scheduled to debut in 2026, operating on routes throughout the country.
Learn more about Amtrak on their website and see more of the Amtrak Airo trains below: