Amtrak is set to introduce a new fleet of passenger trains this summer, marking the most significant modernization effort since the railroad's inception in 1971. The company has ordered 83 new train sets, known as Airo, as part of an $8 billion investment to upgrade its aging equipment and meet growing demand.
The first of these trains will begin service on the Amtrak Cascades route in the Pacific Northwest. This initiative comes as Amtrak experiences record ridership, having served 34.5 million passengers in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Amtrak is rolling out 83 new Airo trains, the largest fleet replacement in its history.
- The first trains will debut this summer on the Amtrak Cascades route in the Pacific Northwest.
- New features include modern interiors, increased capacity, and significant accessibility upgrades.
- A new forward-sliding seat design has generated mixed reactions from early observers.
A Historic Modernization Effort
The introduction of the Airo fleet represents a major step in Amtrak's plan to modernize its services across the country. The 83 new trains are being built by Siemens in California and are intended to replace rail cars that have been in operation for nearly 50 years.
"These trains represent the next step in Amtrak's modernization of our entire fleet," said Amtrak President Roger Harris during an event introducing the new equipment. He emphasized their domestic production, stating, "They are made right here in America by America for Americans."
The investment is partially supported by the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It follows the recent debut of the NextGen Acela trains on the Northeast Corridor in 2025, signaling a comprehensive upgrade across Amtrak's network.
Why This Matters Now
The fleet overhaul addresses the need to replace decades-old equipment while accommodating a surge in passenger numbers. With 34.5 million trips recorded in 2025, Amtrak is investing to improve reliability and the overall passenger experience on key routes.
Inside the New Passenger Cars
Travelers aboard the Airo trains will find completely redesigned interiors. The new cars feature larger panoramic windows, brighter lighting, and digital screens overhead that display route information and station announcements.
Each seat is equipped with modern amenities, including a standard power outlet, a USB-C port, an individual reading light, and an adjustable headrest. Tray tables have also been made larger to better accommodate laptops and other personal items.
Seating and a New Recline System
The seating arrangement in coach class will be a standard two-by-two configuration. Business class will offer a more spacious two-by-one layout with wider seats and additional legroom.
One of the most discussed features is the new seat recline mechanism. Instead of leaning backward, the seat cushion slides forward to create a reclined position. This design, similar to that on the new Acela trains, has raised concerns among some travelers.
Some taller passengers may find the forward-sliding design uncomfortable, as it can reduce legroom when the seat is in its reclined setting. Early reviews have been mixed, with some questioning the comfort on longer journeys.
Despite the debate over the seats, other interior features have been well-received. Rail and transit content creator Alan Fisher noted the significant improvement in overhead storage space after touring a model of the train.
Enhanced Accessibility and Capacity
A major focus of the Airo train design is improved accessibility. The new fleet will include built-in motorized wheelchair lifts, making boarding and disembarking easier for passengers with mobility challenges. Select cars will feature wider aisles for better maneuverability.
The new Airo trains will nearly double the capacity on the Cascades route. Each train set can accommodate up to 300 passengers, a significant increase from the approximately 168 seats on the current equipment.
Other accessibility enhancements include:
- Accessible café cars for easier service.
- Restrooms large enough for a wheelchair user to turn around completely.
- Clearer signage and communication systems throughout the train.
Performance and Rollout Schedule
The Airo trains will operate at speeds up to 125 mph, which means they are not classified as high-speed rail. However, their new locomotives are designed for greater efficiency. They can transition seamlessly between diesel and electric power, which could reduce travel times on certain routes by eliminating the need for engine changes.
The initial launch is scheduled for this summer on the Amtrak Cascades route, which connects Eugene, Oregon; Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; and Vancouver, British Columbia. Eight of the new train sets are designated for this corridor.
Following the Pacific Northwest debut, the Airo fleet will expand to major East Coast routes, including the heavily traveled Northeast Regional line. Testing on these routes is expected to begin later this year, with full passenger service anticipated to start in 2027.
Amtrak has not announced any specific fare increases tied to the new trains. However, the upgraded amenities and appearance have led to some public speculation about potential price adjustments in the future as the new fleet becomes operational across the national network.
