Amtrak Getting Shiny New 'Airo' Trains For Hudson Valley Routes

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Amtrak's new trains won't just look good. Its new Airo fleet will also be considerably faster and more environmentally friendly.

Billed as "the future of Amtrak," officials say the Airo trains have the potential to completely transform the rail travel experience in the U.S.

The new trains will start debuting in 2026 and operate on routes nationwide, including the Hudson Valley's most popular lines. The Amtrak Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Maple Leaf Ethan Allen Express and Adirondack routes will all get the new trains. Other routes that will see the new Airo fleet include Virginia Services, Keystone Service, Downeaster, Cascades, New Haven/Springfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian and Vermonter.

The new trains are being built by Siemens in California.

The biggest equipment upgrade since the introduction of Acela service offers a number of advantages for travelers and Mother Nature, according to Amtrak.

• Elevated Passenger Experience: Modern, spacious interior and new panoramic windows give passengers an improved view of the sights and the passing landscape.
• Greener Impact: The new trains are more fuel-efficient and produce 90 percent less particulate emissions in diesel operations.
• Reduced Travel Times: The new trains will operate at speeds up to 125 mph and offer a seamless transition between power sources eliminating situations where time-consuming locomotive changes are required.
• Redesigned Café Car: More contemporary food service and new self-service options.
• Spacious Seating: Seats are ergonomically designed, offering comfort and plenty of legroom, bigger and sturdier tray tables, moveable headrests and a dedicated cup and seatback tablet-holder.
• Business Class: Choice of double and single seats offer customers greater flexibility.

Other features and amenities include better lighting, touchless restroom controls, dedicated individual outlets, USB ports and onboard Wi-Fi.