Amtrak has exercise an option to order 10 additional Amtrak Airo trainsets, citing strong demand.
This brings the total contract order to 83 trainsets. The first Amtrak Airo trainset is scheduled to debut in 2026 and these new trains will operate on routes throughout the country.
The trains will be deployed on Northeast Regional service and long distance trains to Florida and othere points that stop in Wilmington, one of Amtrak’s busier stops.
The Airo trains will allow speedier long-distance with 125-an hour top speeds and an ability to operate on both overhead electric lines and on diesel power.
At present, locomotives on trains running south of the Northeast Corridor have to switch to diesel locomotives at Washington, D.C.
“We’re 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,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “These new trainsets will help us get people where they need to go, while reducing road and air congestion, creating jobs and supporting the American economy.”
The train sets amenities offer USB ports, higher speed Internet, water stations, grab and go cafe cars and business class seats. Airo locomotives in diesel mode will generate 90% lower emissions.
Airo will join new Acela high-speed trains that are slated to operate on the Northeast Corridor.
