In a significant boost for rail travel and major event infrastructure, a fleet of brand-new Amtrak trains is scheduled to debut in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The advanced Airo trainsets will serve the popular Amtrak Cascades route, providing a crucial transport link for football fans heading to host cities Seattle in the USA and Vancouver in Canada.
A New Generation for the Cascades Corridor
Starting in 2026, eight new Airo trains will enter service on the scenic Amtrak Cascades line. This route connects Eugene and Portland in Oregon with Vancouver, British Columbia, its northern terminus. Key stations in Washington state include Seattle, Centralia, Olympia, Tacoma, Everett, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham.
The Airo models will replace the existing Talgo Series 8 trains, bringing a suite of modern passenger amenities. Notable new features include digital screens displaying real-time speed, upcoming stops, and connection information. They also boast automated boarding steps designed to improve accessibility at platforms of varying heights and touchless controls in the restrooms.
Enhanced Experience and Environmental Credentials
While introducing new technology, Amtrak has confirmed the Airo will retain popular features from its predecessor. Passengers can still expect seat power outlets, complimentary wi-fi, panoramic windows, and an onboard café car. The top speed capability is also similar, with the Airo rated for 125mph compared to the Talgo's 124mph. However, current track restrictions and freight traffic limit operational speeds to a maximum of 79mph on the corridor.
Amtrak is heavily promoting the environmental benefits of the new fleet. The company states the Airo is more fuel-efficient and produces significantly less air pollution than the older trains it replaces on the Cascades route.
A Strategic Debut for a Major Sporting Event
The timing of the rollout is strategically aligned with one of the world's largest sporting events. The 2026 World Cup will see multiple matches held at Seattle's Lumen Field and Vancouver's BC Place stadium. The Cascades service will enable fans to travel sustainably between these host cities and potentially attend up to six matches in Seattle and several more in Vancouver.
Ron Pate, Director of the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Rail, Freight and Ports Division, commented: "Amtrak Cascades is eager to welcome new trains to our scenic 18-city route linking Washington, Oregon and British Columbia. Their arrival will herald a new generation of train travel in the Pacific Northwest."
This launch on the Cascades line is just the beginning of a wider national upgrade. A total of 83 new Airo trainsets are planned to roll out across the United States. Following the Pacific Northwest debut, the new trains will be introduced on the busy Northeast Regional and other key Amtrak routes.
The Airo's introduction follows the recent deployment of Amtrak's next-generation, 160mph Acela trains on the Northeast Corridor, signalling a substantial modernisation of the national passenger rail network.
