The first Amtrak Airo trainset is scheduled to debut in 2026 and these new trains will operate on routes throughout the country.
“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,” said Amtrak president Roger Harris. “As we advance this vision, we’re committed to getting people where they need to go, while reducing road and air congestion, creating jobs and supporting the American economy.”
Currently in production, the new trains will elevate the customer journey and provide a more sustainable travel option. For example, they are highly fuel efficient, producing 90% less particulate emissions in diesel operations.
They will also feature dedicated water stations on each trainset, providing chilled and filtered hydration, while reducing the need for disposable plastic bottles; more spacious and comfortable seating, trip and train navigation; more tech including Wi-Fi and digital information systems; and enhanced accessibility, among other features.
Customers will experience new Amtrak Airo trainsets on the Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Virginia Services, Keystone Service, Downeaster, Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven/Springfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express and Adirondack.
A share of Amtrak’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding will support the procurement of Amtrak Airo trainsets, which are being manufactured by Siemens in California. The new trains are part of a larger transformation that will revolutionize the Amtrak experience, including new Acela trains, major infrastructure projects, service expansion, station upgrades, modernization efforts and improved track capacity that will help support ridership growth.
With this contract, Amtrak has the opportunity to purchase additional trainsets in the future.