Amtrak Unveils New Airo Train Fleet: A Modernization Initiative

In 2026, Amtrak is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of its new Airo train fleet, marking one of the most comprehensive overhauls in the company's history. At a recent preview event in Washington, D.C., Amtrak President Roger Harris, alongside other officials, showcased the first Airo train, designed to enhance customer experience and improve service across the national rail network. The Airo fleet aims to expand capacity while providing a consistent, high-quality travel experience.

Meet the New Airo FleetOregonianAmtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

The Airo trains will initially operate on the Amtrak Cascades route, which connects cities in the Pacific Northwest, including Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver, British Columbia. The first trainsets are expected to enter service in the summer of 2026, with all eight Cascades trainsets anticipated to be completed by that time. The Airo trains are designed for speeds of up to 79 mph on the Cascades route, although they are capable of reaching top speeds of 125 mph.

OregonianMeet the New Airo FleetAmtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

The new trainsets will feature panoramic windows, redesigned seating, upgraded café cars, and enhanced amenities such as onboard Wi-Fi and digital displays. The seating configurations will include options for 317-seat and 335-seat arrangements, as well as a nine-car version accommodating 479 passengers. Notably, the Airo trains will also include improved accessibility features in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Amtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

The introduction of the Airo fleet follows the rollout of the NextGen Acela trains, which began service on the Northeast Corridor in August 2025. Together, these initiatives represent a broader modernization effort by Amtrak, which plans to deploy a total of 83 Airo trainsets across various routes in the coming years. This modernization is part of a $7.3 billion order with Siemens, which includes a long-term parts and service agreement.

Meet the New Airo FleetOregonianAmtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

While the Airo fleet is positioned as a significant advancement for Amtrak, some critics have raised concerns regarding the pace of modernization and the need for more extensive upgrades across the existing rail infrastructure. There are calls for increased investment in rail services to ensure that the benefits of new trainsets are fully realized for all passengers.

Meet the New Airo Fleet

Amtrak officials have expressed optimism about the Airo fleet's potential to reshape the travel experience. Roger Harris stated, “We can all be proud,” emphasizing the train's design and features as a step forward in Amtrak's transformation. Siemens CEO Tobias Bauer echoed this sentiment, highlighting the aesthetic appeal of the new trainsets.

Meet the New Airo Fleet

As Amtrak prepares for the debut of the Airo trains, the focus will be on completing the manufacturing process and ensuring that the trains meet operational standards. The first revenue service is expected to commence in 2027 for the Northeast Regional route, following the Cascades launch.

Meet the New Airo FleetOregonianAmtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

• “The train is beautiful.” — Tobias Bauer, CEO of Siemens North America

Amtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

• “We can all be proud,” — Roger Harris, Amtrak President

Amtrak offers first look at Airo equipment

The Airo fleet represents a pivotal moment for Amtrak as it seeks to modernize its services and enhance the passenger experience across its national network.

Meet the New Airo Fleet