Amtrak has embarked on the process of replacing their long-serving Amfleet fleet by issuing a request for information regarding the disposal of their hundreds of stainless steel passenger cars.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak Begins Phaseout of Historic Amfleet Fleet
Photo: wikipedia

Amtrak Launches RFI for Amfleet Disposal

Amtrak published an RFI in order to locate interested parties who may be willing to purchase and recycle the aged Amfleet I passenger railcars. The scope of the said notice encompasses approximately 370 coaches, 58 business-class ‘Capstone’ cars, 75 café cars, and 11 former Metroliner ‘cab’ units.

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However, the aim of the railway line is not an extension of the operational life of the fleet. This is clear from the fact that the RFI favors two major “disposition strategies,” which are sale and scrapping, in preparation for the arrival of new-generation rolling stock. The interested parties are required to submit their questions by next week, while the response must be given by December 5, 2025.

The step fits the Amtrak plan to upgrade their fleet. The operator’s expectation for the coming year, 2026, is to have new Airo trains comprising a total of 83 trains replace Amfleet trains in the Northeast Corridor and the regional routes operated by the company for the said service routes.

Amtrak Advances Long-Distance Fleet Modernization

At the same time, Amtrak is moving ahead with their independent acquisition process for single-level long-distance rail cars. The latest request-for-proposal from the company indicates a proposed base order of around 160 units, subject to bids.

These new trains will replace the Amfleet II series, rolled out in 1981. Taken together, both projects reflect the commitment of Amtrak to upgrade their intercity rail networks and ultimately achieve reliability in their operations. However, there are challenges associated with replacing the rolling stock, given the lack of many years of sustained investment for the passenger railroads in North America.

Amtrak’s evolution mirrors the historical order from the1970s, where Budd’s Amfleet trains replaced the old lightweight trains. The stainless steel trains’ robustness has exceeded their expected lifespan by over twice the period their old peers lasted. However, the cost of maintaining the trains, despite the efforts of the Bear, Delaware Heavy Maintenance Facility staff, has continued to rise.

Source: www.trains.com

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What is Amtrak’s plan for the retired Amfleet cars?

Amtrak intends to sell or scrap the cars through its RFI process, focusing on efficient fleet turnover rather than continued operation.

When will Amtrak’s new Airo trains replace the Amfleet fleet?

The first Airo trainsets are expected to enter service in 2026, gradually replacing Amfleet cars on major Northeast and regional routes.

How long did Amtrak’s Amfleet cars operate?

Amfleet I cars entered service between 1975 and 1977, giving them a remarkable operational lifespan of nearly 50 years, supported by consistent overhauls and maintenance.