Amtrak launches new Airo trains on Cascades route

Amtrak has officially launched its new Airo trainsets on the Amtrak Cascades route, serving the Pacific Northwest corridor between Eugene, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia. The new equipment replaces aging Amfleet trains with more stable, semi-permanently coupled six-car units designed to reduce swaying and improve ride comfort.

The Airo trains feature modern amenities, including individual power outlets with USB-C ports, free onboard Wi-Fi, enhanced lighting, and touchless restroom controls. The interior includes a Cafe Car with panoramic windows for viewing the Cascades scenery, and Business Class seating with a 2-1 configuration. Each trainset can accommodate up to 317 passengers.

While the current speed limit on the Cascades route is 79 mph, these trains are capable of reaching 125 mph on the Northeast Corridor starting next year. Pricing for the new service includes coach seats starting at approximately $27 and business class starting at $86 for specific Seattle to Portland trips.