A New Chapter for Amtrak CascadesAiro Fleet Debuts Sept. 30
First published September 17, 2026
Oregon and Washington customers will be the first in the nation to experience Amtrak’s newest trains
Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 30, customers can experience the new Airo trainsets as Amtrak introduces its newest fleet into passenger service. Two trainsets, operating four daily trips, will begin carrying customers, marking the first phase of Airo’s introduction between Vancouver, B.C., Seattle, Portland and Eugene, Oregon. As the rollout continues, additional trainsets will enter service through early 2027 bringing more seats, modern amenities, enhanced accessibility, panoramic windows and a refreshed onboard experience to even more Amtrak Cascades customers.
Be Among the First to Ride
The launch on Wednesday, Sept. 30 will feature two trainsets operating four daily trips, connecting communities across the Pacific Northwest.
Northbound*
- Train 516: Seattle → Vancouver, B.C. | 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- Train 508: Eugene → Seattle | 4:30 p.m. – 10:50 p.m.
Southbound*
- Train 503: Seattle → Eugene | 7:10 a.m. – 1:48 p.m.
- Train 519: Vancouver, B.C. → Seattle | 4:45 p.m. – 9:10 p.m.
* While these departures are scheduled to operate with Airo equipment, train assignments are subject to change based on operational needs.
Amtrak has ordered eight Airo trainsets for the Amtrak Cascades, along with two new locomotives and a spare cab car. As additional trainsets enter service, Airo will continue expanding across the route, ultimately replacing the existing Amtrak Cascades fleet.
Designed for the Pacific Northwest
The new trainsets feature the signature Amtrak Cascades evergreen, cream and mocha color palette along with design elements inspired by the Cascade mountain range. The arrival of the new fleet marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for passenger rail across the Pacific Northwest.
“Oregon continues to reach record train ridership, and we are proud to partner with Amtrak to bring their new trains to the Pacific Northwest,” said Chris Warner, interim director of the Oregon Department of Transportation. “Amtrak Cascades offers Oregonians and visitors a chance to leave I-5 traffic behind and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. We look forward to welcoming the new trains and giving even more people the opportunity to experience passenger rail in Oregon.”
A New Experience Onboard
The new trainsets are designed to make every trip more comfortable, convenient and connected. Inside, customers will find more than 300 seats per trainset along with a range of features that enhance the onboard experience.
- Enhanced comfort. Ergonomically designed seating with adjustable headrests, panoramic windows, enhanced lighting and modern interiors.
- More ways to stay connected: Complimentary Wi-Fi, individual power outlets and USB ports, and digital customer information displays.
- Improved accessibility: Accessible seating and features throughout the train, automated steps, enhanced wayfinding and six spacious restrooms with touchless controls.
- A refreshed Cafe experience: Featuring food and beverage offerings inspired by the Pacific Northwest.
The First Step in a National Airo Rollout
As the first route in the nation to welcome these new trains into passenger service, Amtrak Cascades features a distinctive fleet designed specifically for the Pacific Northwest. Future Airo trainsets operating on other routes will reflect Amtrak’s national red, white and blue branding while maintaining the defining features and customer-focused design of the Airo fleet.
“The arrival of the new Airo fleet marks an exciting moment for the Amtrak Cascades and passenger rail in the Pacific Northwest,” said Amtrak Interim President Byl Hermann. “After extensive planning, design, manufacturing and testing, we’re just weeks away from welcoming customers aboard. This is an important milestone not only for Amtrak Cascades customers, but for Amtrak’s broader effort to modernize and expand passenger rail across the country.”
Manufactured in the United States by Siemens Mobility, Airo trainsets incorporate components from nearly 100 suppliers across 31 states, supporting American manufacturing and jobs.
About ODOT
ODOT provides a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive. Learn more at Oregon.gov/ODOT and visit TripCheck.com for the latest traffic conditions.