May 27, 2026 - News
Airo train arrives in Seattle before launch
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Amtrak's new Airo trainsets are getting set for service to Portland later this year before coming to Virginia routes in 2028.
Why it matters: The trains can travel at speeds of up to 125 mph, and are billed as having higher fuel efficiency and more modern interiors.
Driving the news: Airo — now in its final stage of testing — will debut on the Amtrak Cascades in the Pacific Northwest before rolling out to the Northeast Regional and Virginia Services, per Amtrak.
- They'll have seats with USB charging ports and larger doors for faster boarding — plus, improved technology, among other upgrades.
- And maybe, just maybe, the Wi-Fi will actually work on these.
Yes, but: Railroads in Virginia have a 70 mph speed limit, so Airo won't be able to travel here at its top speed, Virginia Passenger Rail Authority spokesperson Karina Romero tells Axios.
- Still, with the improvements for boarding and the completion of the Long Bridge Project, Virginia rail travelers should see faster train service, she adds.
