Amtrak is revamping its entire fleet with over 80 new trains, marking the largest overhaul since its founding in 1971. This massive investment of $8 billion is part of a broader effort to modernize aging equipment across its national network. The new trains, known as Airo, are built by Siemens in California and will be deployed across several major corridors, starting with the Pacific Northwest. The first Airo trains will debut on the Amtrak Cascades route, offering a more spacious and comfortable experience with larger windows, brighter lighting, and overhead digital screens. However, the redesign has received mixed reviews, with some noting that the seats slide forward instead of reclining, potentially reducing legroom for taller travelers. Despite these concerns, the Airo fleet promises increased capacity, with each train seating up to 300 passengers compared to the current 168. The new trains will also feature accessibility upgrades, including built-in wheelchair lifts and wider aisles, reflecting Amtrak's commitment to serving all travelers. The Airo trains will operate at speeds up to 125 mph, and Amtrak officials anticipate time savings on certain routes due to their dual-power capability. The funding for this ambitious project comes from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and it follows the successful introduction of the NextGen Acela trains on the Northeast Corridor in 2025. As Amtrak continues to modernize its fleet, travelers can expect a more comfortable and efficient travel experience, but some worry about potential fare increases to cover the higher costs of these new, upscale trains.
