US rail operator Amtrak has ordered ten more Airo trainsets in response to the continuing rise in passenger numbers.
Amtrak has now ordered a total of 83 of the trains, which are currently bring built and due to enter service in 2026. They will run on routes throughout the USA. It retains an option to order more.
Amtrak is publicly-owned, and receives funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Congress passed in 2021. The funding is contributing to buying the Airo trainsets, which are being built by Siemens in California.
Amtrak is ordering the new trains as part of a larger series of improvements – the largest capital programme in its history – which also includes new Acela trains, major infrastructure projects, service expansion, station upgrades, modernisation work and improved track capacity.
The new trains have bidirectional capability and travel at speeds up to 125 mph. They have dual-power electric and diesel engines. The Airos feature:
- spacious and comfortable seats with power; USB-C ports; seatback tablet and phone holders; larger, more sturdy tray tables; adjustable cup holders; contoured seat cushions, more leg room, individual arm rests and adjustable headrests
- trip and train navigation: bold, colour-coded signage to identify amenities and classes of travel
- environmental benefits: better fuel efficiency, producing 90% less particulate emissions in diesel operations; water stations providing chilled and filtered hydration, reducing the need for disposable plastic bottles.
- modern technology, including new 5G Wi-Fi and digital information systems
- improved accessibility: spacious and accessible toilets, vestibules and café cars; integrated boarding equipment; inductive hearing technology to assist with onboard announcements
- café car with grab-and-go service
- toilets that are touchless, and have spacious, accessible interiors.
- business class: more space; double and single seats; wider arm rests; additional outlets, footrests and better ambience
- lighting: softer lighting with with individual reading lights at each seat
- luggage: ample storage space for bags and luggage.
The new Amtrak Airo trains will run 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.
More information about Amtrak Airo is available here.
Amtrak President Roger Harris said, “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. 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.”
