Amtrak's New Airo Trains Just Arrived in Seattle—Here’s What to Expect

Americans are one step closer to having modern, European-inspired trainsets on one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes. The first Airo trainset arrived in Seattle this week for the final phase of testing on the Amtrak Cascades tracks, which runs from Vancouver through Washington and Oregon. It's the first of eight trainsets that Amtrak plans to roll out along the route by the end of 2026. The new trains will feature modern amenities, upgraded dining options and, perhaps most importantly, even bigger windows for taking in the views of some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. Here’s what travelers need to know about the new Airo trains before they welcome the first passengers on board later this year. Airo’s sleek coach cars feature upgraded, ergonomic seats with plenty of legroom, USB charging ports, sturdier tray tables, seatback tablet stands, and cupholders. “It’s a more open experience. It’s better lit. It’s newer materials,” Derek Maier, senior director of Amtrak’s Airo program, told the New York Times. They’ll also have more capacity on board, Amtrak says. The new Airo trains will seat around 300 passengers, roughly 50% more than the current aging equip