Amtrak, the U.S. national rail service, has been a key part of the country’s transportation system since its founding over 50 years ago, with its first train departing New York on May 1, 1971. While the golden age of rail travel was overshadowed by the rise of air travel, Amtrak has continued to be a reliable option, connecting commuters and travelers across the nation.
Now, Amtrak is embarking on a new chapter, introducing next-generation trains designed to make travel faster, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly.
The Amtrak Airo will be the centerpiece of this transformation. Slated to debut in 2026, these new trains are built in California and will initially operate on key routes, including the Northeast Regional, Empire Service, and Vermonter. Amtrak describes this development as the beginning of “a new era of rail,” signaling the start of an exciting future for U.S. train travel.
