Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Administrator David Fink joined Amtrak this past weekend to preview its all-new Airo trainsets, marking the arrival of a new era of passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest. Two cutting-edge Airo trainsets will join the Amtrak Cascades route, operating four daily trips between Vancouver, B.C., Seattle, Portland, and Eugene-representing the first introduction of Airo trains into passenger service anywhere in the country.
Manufactured in the U.S. by Siemens Mobility, the Airo trainsets incorporate components from nearly 100 suppliers across 31 states, directly supporting American manufacturing and jobs.
“Amtrak’s Airo trainset was developed for today’s travelers, with a focus on comfort, connectivity and convenience-a testament to Amtrak’s dedication to improving and expanding services nationwide,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “This rollout represents hundreds of American jobs that poured countless hours into building trainsets that commuters and tourists will enjoy across the Pacific Northwest for decades to come.”
“The arrival of the new Airo fleet marks an exciting moment for the Amtrak Cascades and passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest,” said Amtrak Interim President Byl Herrmann. “After extensive planning, design, manufacturing and testing, we’re excited to welcome customers aboard. This is an important milestone not only for Amtrak Cascades customers, but for Amtrak’s broader effort to modernize and expand passenger rail across the country.”
Designed specifically for the Pacific Northwest, the new trainsets feature design elements inspired by the Cascade mountain range. Inside, customers will find more than 300 seats per trainset and a range of features designed to make every trip more comfortable, convenient, and connected.
- Enhanced comfort: Ergonomically designed seating with adjustable headrests, panoramic windows, enhanced lighting, and modern interiors
- More ways to stay connected: Complimentary Wi-Fi, individual power outlets and USB ports, and digital customer information displays
- Improved accessibility: Accessible seating and features throughout the train, automated steps, enhanced wayfinding, and six spacious restrooms with touchless controls
- A refreshed Café experience: Food and beverage offerings inspired by the Pacific Northwest
“These new American-made Airo trainsets represent Amtrak’s most significant fleet replacement program in 50 years,” said FRA Administrator David Fink. “Supported by $3.5 billion in FRA investments and powered by cutting-edge technology, this new fleet will substantially reduce maintenance downtime and eliminate delays for passengers.”
Amtrak has ordered a total of eight Airo trainsets for Amtrak Cascades, along with two new locomotives and a spare cab car. The other trainsets will enter service through early 2027, ultimately replacing the existing Amtrak Cascades fleet.