Amtrak Cascades fleet will get major train upgrades in 2026

Published 9:59 am Friday, December 16, 2022

Amtrak is modernizing trains in its Northwest region, adding features such as Wi-Fi and introducing fuel-efficient locomotives.

Its new fleet of Amtrak Airo models will serve passengers on the Amtrak Cascades route between Portland, Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., Amtrak said Thursday. The line serves 18 cities.

“The branding of our new trains is unique to the Amtrak Cascades corridor, distinguishing them from others in the Amtrak fleet. Their arrival will herald a new generation of train travel in the Pacific Northwest,” said Ron Pate, director of Washington’s Rail, Freight and Ports Division.

Funds to build the new trains are part of President Joe Biden’s infrastructure package that Congress passed in 2021.

New cars and locomotives will go into service in 2026 and will feature:

  • New seating with cushioned headrests, electrical plugs, USB ports and better lighting.
  • Tray tables, water bottle holder and a tablet holder.
  • Touchless restroom controls.
  • A redesigned cafe car featuring local Northwest foods including beer, wine and spirits along with some self-service food options.
  • Elevated seats and panoramic windows for a better view.

In addition, the new trains will feature a new paint scheme and graphics reminiscent of the Northwest, the statement said.

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