Get ready for a major upgrade! Amtrak is embarking on a massive overhaul of its fleet, introducing over 80 brand-new trains this summer. This exciting development comes at a time when Amtrak is experiencing record-breaking ridership, with an impressive 34.5 million passenger trips recorded in 2025.
The new trains, dubbed Airo, are a significant investment, costing a whopping $8 billion. Built by Siemens in California, these trains represent the largest fleet replacement in Amtrak's history, dating back to its founding in 1971.
"These trains are a testament to Amtrak's commitment to modernization," said Roger Harris, Amtrak's President. "They are a symbol of our nation's innovation and a step towards a brighter future for rail travel."
But here's where it gets controversial... While the new trains promise an enhanced travel experience, some passengers have expressed concerns about the design of the seats. Unlike traditional reclining seats, the Airo trains feature seats that slide forward as they adjust, a design choice that has received mixed reviews.
"The recline mechanism is a bit of a letdown," shared a reviewer from The Points Guy. "When reclined, the seats take up more space, which could be uncomfortable for taller travelers."
However, not all reviews are negative. Alan Fisher, a rail and transit content creator, had a more positive take. "The recline is a bit different, but I think it's a fair trade-off for the improved legroom and overall comfort," he said in a YouTube video.
The redesigned interiors of the Airo trains offer larger windows, brighter lighting, and digital screens displaying route information. Each seat comes equipped with power outlets, USB-C ports, individual reading lights, and adjustable headrests. The business class section boasts even more legroom and wider seats.
In addition to these upgrades, the Airo fleet prioritizes accessibility. The trains will feature motorized wheelchair lifts, wider aisles, accessible café cars, and restrooms designed for wheelchair users.
"The Airo trains are a game-changer for accessible travel," said an Amtrak spokesperson. "We're committed to ensuring that our services are inclusive and comfortable for all passengers."
While the new trains will maintain a top speed of 125 mph, Amtrak officials highlight potential time savings on certain routes due to the locomotives' ability to switch between diesel and electric power without engine changes.
The Airo fleet is also designed to increase capacity. On the Amtrak Cascades route, for example, each train will accommodate up to 300 passengers, a significant jump from the current 168 seats.
As for pricing, Amtrak has not announced any fare increases associated with the Airo fleet rollout. However, some customers speculate that the upgraded amenities and higher-end appearance may lead to higher ticket costs.
"The new trains look luxurious, and I'd expect the prices to reflect that," commented an online user.
The rollout of the Airo trains is part of Amtrak's broader initiative to modernize its aging equipment across the national network. This effort follows the debut of the NextGen Acela trains on the Northeast Corridor in 2025.
So, what do you think? Are you excited about the Airo trains, or do you have concerns about the potential impact on ticket prices? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
