Meet Amtrak’s Next Generation of Trains

The first Amtrak train departed from New York on May 1, 1971, marking the beginning of a journey that spanned over 50 years. Even as the era of rail travel declined and air travel took center stage, Amtrak remained a steadfast presence, connecting commuters and travelers across the United States.

Now, over half a century after its founding, the U.S. national railroad company is implementing some changes.

At the forefront of Amtrak’s evolution is the addition of Amtrak Airo (pronounced “arrow”), a new train ushering in what Amtrak is calling “a new era of rail.” The new, California-made trains will debut in 2026 on several established lines, including the Northeast Regional, Empire Service, and the Vermonter.

Amtrak Airo’s passenger cars will have modern, spacious interiors with panoramic windows. Even in Coach, the seating will be more spacious, with extra legroom, bigger tray tables, moveable headrests, and seats with a dedicated cup holder and tablet holder. Additional amenities include onboard Wi-Fi, individual outlets and USB ports, and enhanced lighting. Amtrak’s cafe cars will also get a modern upgrade with self-service options. 

The new trains are also more fuel efficient, producing 90 percent less particulate emissions in diesel operations. The trains operate at speeds of up to 125 mph, resulting in reduced travel time across the board.

Passengers using mobility devices and wheelchairs will find improved accessibility on Amtrak Airo, with restrooms, vestibules, and cafe cars designed for wheelchair accessibility and lifts for people using mobility devices.

“Sustainable transportation, a modern design, and world-class amenities. Amtrak Airo will transform the travel experience. This is the future of Amtrak,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said in a video on the company’s website.

The first Amtrak Airo train will debut in 2026, but eventually, these trains will be rolled out on several of the rail company’s main lines. This includes Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Amtrak Virginia Services, Keystone Service, Amtrak Downeaster, Amtrak Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven-Springfield-Greenfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, and Adirondack.

The Amtrak Airo announcement comes as the company invests billions in everything from expanded rail yards and updated train stations to the addition of observatory cars on popular routes.