Subheadline: The first new trainset has departed Colorado and is en route to the Northeast Corridor for final dynamic testing before its 2026 launch.
Dateline: WASHINGTON — Amtrak’s next generation of passenger trains is one step closer to service. The first of 83 new Amtrak Airo trainsets has successfully completed a critical phase of testing in Pueblo, Colorado, and is now being moved to the Northeast Corridor, officials confirmed this week.
The train, a dual-power variant destined for the Amtrak Cascades route, underwent months of rigorous trials at the Transportation Technology Center (TTC). These tests validate the train’s safety, performance, and reliability systems.
This move marks a significant milestone in Amtrak’s $7.3 billion program to replace its 40- and 50-year-old Amfleet I and II cars. The new fleet, built by Siemens Mobility in Sacramento, Calif., is the centerpiece of Amtrak’s plan to modernize regional and state-supported routes.
“The completion of testing in Pueblo is a major step forward in delivering a new era of passenger rail,” said a placeholder Amtrak spokesperson, Jane Doe. “These new trains will transform the customer experience with modern amenities and greater reliability as we introduce them in the Northeast and across the country.”
Key Takeaways
- Testing Complete: The first Airo trainset finished its initial test program in Pueblo, Colo.
- Next Stop: The NEC: The train is now moving to the Northeast Corridor for on-track dynamic testing.
- Service Debut: The first Airo trains are scheduled to enter passenger service in 2026.
- First Route: Amtrak Cascades in the Pacific Northwest will be the first route to use the new fleet.
- Northeast Rollout: Following the Cascades debut, Airo trains will be deployed on the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, Empire Service, and Amtrak Virginia routes.
Background: Why This Matters for Travelers
The Airo fleet will replace Amfleet equipment that has formed the backbone of regional train travel since the 1970s. Passengers can expect significant upgrades, including panoramic windows, ergonomic seating, dedicated USB ports and power outlets, and new 5G-enabled Wi-Fi.
The new trains also feature enhanced accessibility, including onboard lifts for mobility devices and touchless restroom controls. For routes that travel on and off the electrified Northeast Corridor, the dual-power (diesel and electric) design will eliminate lengthy locomotive changes, potentially reducing trip times.
What’s Next
With the trainset now on the NEC, Amtrak and Siemens will conduct further tests to ensure its readiness for revenue service.
While the Amtrak Cascades route is slated for the first debut in 2026, passengers on the Northeast Regional and other key routes can expect to see the new trains gradually enter service throughout 2026 and 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The first Amtrak Airo trains are scheduled to begin carrying passengers in 2026. The initial rollout will be on the Amtrak Cascades route in the Pacific Northwest, followed by deployment on the Northeast Regional and other state-supported services.
The Airo fleet is scheduled to replace trains on 14 routes. The first will be the Amtrak Cascades. This will be followed by routes primarily in the Northeast, including the Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Keystone Service, Amtrak Virginia Services, Vermonter, Downeaster, and Pennsylvanian.
Source: https://media.amtrak.com/2025/10/from-pueblo-to-the-northeast-airo-fleet-moves-toward-debut/