Amtrak is providing an update on service adjustments following the necessary removal of our Horizon car fleet for inspection and maintenance related to corrosion concerns, initially announced on March 26, 2025.
We are pleased to confirm the resumption of our Borealis service between Chicago and St. Paul, Minnesota, beginning Thursday, March 27, 2025. This service will be temporarily operated using Superliner equipment as a substitute for the sidelined Horizon cars.
Borealis Service Resumes with Superliner Equipment
As we discussed, the decision to deploy Superliner equipment on the Borealis route is a strategic move to ensure the continuation of this vital connection for our passengers and to minimize disruption. The westbound Borealis will operate on Thursday, March 27th, with both eastbound and westbound services operating as scheduled beginning Friday, March 28th.
Important Note for Borealis Business Class Passengers: Due to the bi-level nature of the Superliner railcars operating on the Borealis, Business Class service is not supported on this equipment. Passengers holding Business Class tickets for the Borealis will receive refunds for the difference between the Business Class and Coach fares. Amtrak will be processing these refunds automatically.
Continued Adjustments for Hiawatha and Cascades Services
While we are resuming Borealis service, adjustments will continue for other routes affected by the Horizon car removal:
Hiawatha Service (Chicago – Milwaukee)
Bus substitutions for approximately half of the train frequencies on the Chicago-Milwaukee Hiawatha route will continue until further notice. Train frequencies that do not typically utilize Horizon cars will continue to operate as scheduled. Passengers traveling on affected Hiawatha services will be directed to bus transportation.
Amtrak Cascades (Pacific Northwest)
As previously reported, the Amtrak Cascades service between Vancouver, British Columbia, Seattle, Portland, and Eugene, Oregon, continues to experience significant disruptions. Bus substitutions for most Cascades trains will remain in effect until further notice. Similar to the Borealis, passengers holding Business Class tickets on Cascades trains operating with substitute equipment will be refunded the difference between the Business Class and Coach fares.
Features of Superliner Equipment on the Borealis
Passengers traveling on the Borealis with Superliner equipment can expect the following features:
- Bi-Level Design: Superliner cars are double-decker, offering unique views and a different travel experience.
- Seating Configuration: Coach seating on Superliner trains is typically in a 2-2 configuration on both the upper and lower levels.
- Restroom Facilities: Multiple restrooms are located throughout the Superliner coach cars.
- Café Car Access: Passengers will have access to the Superliner café car for the purchase of meals, snacks, and beverages.
- Overhead Storage: Ample overhead storage is available for carry-on luggage.
Amtrak’s Commitment to Passengers
Amtrak remains committed to providing essential transportation services and appreciates the continued patience and understanding of our passengers during this period of fleet adjustments. We are working diligently to restore normal service across all affected routes as quickly and safely as possible.
Checking Your Reservation
Passengers traveling on the Borealis, Hiawatha, and Cascades routes are strongly encouraged to check their reservation details on the Amtrak website (Amtrak.com) or app for the latest information regarding their specific train schedule and any potential service adjustments. If you have any questions or require assistance with your reservation, please contact Amtrak Customer Service at 1-800-USA-RAIL.
Conclusion
Amtrak is actively managing the temporary service adjustments resulting from the removal of the Horizon car fleet. We are pleased to resume Borealis service with Superliner equipment and are continuing to work on solutions to minimize disruptions on the Hiawatha and Cascades routes. We thank our passengers for their understanding as we prioritize safety and work towards restoring regular service.