USA: Amtrak officially presented its first Airo push-pull trainset at a preview event on February 10. The national passenger operator said ‘more than new equipment, the Airo fleet represents the foundation of a nationwide modernisation effort, expanding capacity while delivering a consistent, high-quality experience across multiple corridors’.
In 2021 Amtrak awarded Siemens Mobility the Intercity Trainsets framework contract covering the supply of 200 km/h rolling stock, a 23-year technical support and spare parts agreement and the provision of new or upgraded maintenance facilities. Amtrak has so far ordered 83 Airo trainsets to replace 40 to 50 year old vehicles used on medium-distance inter-city services, and has options for up to 130 more to support growth.
The Airo trainsets are to be used nationwide as the ‘backbone’ of a modernised Amtrak network offering increased capacity, improved reliability and enhanced passenger experience. Features include seats arranged 2+1 in business class and 2+2 in standard, with power sockets, USB-C ports, seatback tablet and phone holders, tray tables and adjustable cup holders.
Production is underway at Siemens sites at Sacramento in California and Lexington in North Carolina. ‘From enhanced comfort and accessibility to modern design and technology, these trainsets represent a new standard for what travellers can expect on their journeys’, said Tobias Bauer, CEO of Siemens Mobility North America.
The first eight sets are expected to begin entering service this year on the Cascades route linking Washington state, Oregon and British Columbia. The six-coach sets to operate with Siemens Charger diesel locos will have an evergreen, cream and mocha livery representing the Pacific Northwest.
Sets for Northeast Regional services are expected to enter service 2027. The final trains from the current orders are expected to enter service in 2031-32.
Electro-diesel and diesel-battery sets are to be used on the Empire Service, Amtrak Virginia, Keystone Service, Downeaster, Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven/Springfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express and Adirondack routes.
