Amtrak has announced an order for an additional ten Airo trainsets, “as demand for passenger rail travel exceeds expectations”.
The US railroad company now has a total of 83 of the Siemens Mobility trainsets on order, with the first set to enter service in 2026.
The new-generation trains will gradually be rolled out across Amtrak’s network, on routes including 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.
Amtrak unveiled the first Airo visuals earlier this year, with the 125-mph trains set to feature panoramic windows, “bigger and sturdier” seat tray tables, a choice of double and single seats in business class, USB ports, onboard wifi, a redesigned café car, colour-coded wayfinding and contactless toilet controls.
Commenting on the news 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.”
The new Airo trains will follow the debut of Amtrak’s Alstrom-built Avelia Liberty trainsets. These had originally been due to enter service in 2021, but reports state the launch date has slipped to 2024.
