Train travel through Salem has a new look. Amtrak’s next-generation Airo trains began carrying passengers along the Cascades route on September 30, giving local riders an early look at the fleet that will eventually replace decades-old equipment across the corridor.
Salem is one of the communities included in a nationally significant launch. The Amtrak Cascades route, which connects Eugene, Portland, Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, is the first in the country to put the new Airo trains into passenger service.
A More Modern Ride Through the Northwest
The first phase of the rollout includes two new trainsets operating four daily trips. More will enter service through early 2027, with eight Airo trainsets, two locomotives and a spare cab car ultimately joining the Cascades fleet.
The new trains don’t shorten the trip, but nearly every part of the onboard experience has been updated. Each trainset has more than 300 seats, helping increase capacity for travelers along the busy Pacific Northwest route.
Passengers will also find ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests, panoramic windows, improved lighting and larger overhead storage areas. Complimentary Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, USB ports and digital information displays make it easier to work, relax or stay connected during the journey.
The café has also been redesigned, with grab-and-go options and food and drinks inspired by the Pacific Northwest.
Improved Accessibility Throughout the Train
Accessibility was another major focus of the Airo design. The trains feature automated steps, accessible seating, improved wayfinding and six spacious restrooms with touchless controls.
These updates are intended to make boarding and moving through the train easier for passengers with disabilities or mobility limitations. The added space and more intuitive layout may also be helpful for older travelers and families navigating the train with children.
A Design Inspired by the Cascades
The exterior keeps the familiar Amtrak Cascades palette of evergreen, cream and mocha, paired with graphics inspired by the Cascade Range. The regional design sets these trainsets apart from future Airo fleets, which will use Amtrak’s national red, white, and blue branding.
The Cascades trains were manufactured in the United States by Siemens Mobility using components from nearly 100 suppliers across 31 states.
More New Trains Are on the Way
Only select Amtrak Cascades trips are currently using the Airo trains, so Salem passengers hoping to experience one should check the schedule while booking. The first four trips assigned the new equipment are trains 503, 508, 516 and 519, although not all four travel through Salem.
Additional trainsets will gradually join the route as testing and preparations are completed. Once the rollout is finished, the new fleet will carry passengers throughout the corridor between Eugene and Vancouver, British Columbia.
For Salem travelers, the arrival marks a major update to a familiar transportation option. The destination may be the same, but getting there now comes with more room, better accessibility and a distinctly Pacific Northwest view along the way.
Official Reporting and Source Links
- Salem to See First New Amtrak Trains in Decades – Salem Reporter
- A New Era for Amtrak Cascades: Airo Fleet Debuts Sept. 30 – Amtrak
- New Amtrak Cascades Trains Arrive in 2026 – Amtrak Cascades