The Federal Railroad Administration extended SEPTA’s inspection deadline for the Silverliner IVs by two weeks in order to allow engineers time to complete essential tests for the 223-car passenger fleet in Philadelphia.

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

Silverliner IV safety concerns force urgent SEPTA action
Photo: COMMONWEALTH MEDIA SERVICES

Silverliner IV inspections strengthen SEPTA’s safety measures

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has published a 14-point order demanding SEPTA conduct thorough assessments for Silverliner IV cars after five fires broke out in the first part of 2025. More than 120 have been checked by inspection teams, who are working tirelessly to meet the new deadline set by the order.

Don’t miss…Railway Ministry Flags Issues in Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

“This has been one of the most challenging safety programs in SEPTA’s history,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. However, the SEPTA staff remains committed to carrying out the inspection schedule on time.

He reiterated technicians’ concerns about the necessity to restore safe, dependable, and efficient service since many passengers rely on the trains every day.

Silverliner IV inspections linked to modernization and fleet renewal

The FRA additionally prolonged the timeline for the installation of thermal protection circuits, which are designed to automatically turn off power should the onboard elements heat up excessively. The engineers are acquiring materials and staff training for the installation process.

The move came after the National Transportation Safety Board advised SEPTA to recall the entire fleet of Silverliner IV trains based on the sequence of previous accidents. Though the agency hopes for the replacement of the old trains, a lack of funds makes it impossible at this point for SEPTA to procure new ones and will be seeking a possible leasing arrangement from other transportation agencies.

‘‘We understand that our passengers have experienced delays and crowded trains,’’ said Sauer. ‘‘We thank them for their patience as we complete this important work.’’

However, the fact remains that since many Silverliner IV trains are still out of service, passengers using the Regional Rail line are still encountering the problem of overcrowded trains and delays. However, the final goal, according to Sauer, remains the completion of the inspection process.

SEPTA and the FRA are both planning to closely monitor the progress during the extension period. Such measures are seen as crucial for the restoration of public confidence and the sustainability of the regional rail service in Philadelphia.

Source: www.trains.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…DC Streetcar to End Service in 2026 Transition Plan

What are Silverliner IV inspections?

They are FRA-mandated safety evaluations of SEPTA’s 223 Silverliner IV railcars to prevent electrical fires and ensure safe passenger operations.

Why did the FRA extend the deadline for Silverliner IV inspections?

The agency provided a two-week extension because SEPTA needed more time to complete technical requirements and install new thermal protection circuits.

Will service disruptions continue during the Silverliner IV inspections?

Yes. Many trains remain out of service until all inspections finish, but SEPTA is adding leased cars and adjusting schedules to minimize commuter impact.

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit