The wait is over for Atlanta transit riders. MARTA is officially launching its new CQ400 railcars for passenger service today, following a ceremonial first ride at Avondale Station.
The Switzerland-built Stadler trains have been undergoing testing in Atlanta since early 2025, with several earlier launch timelines coming and going. The ceremonial first ride replicated the route of MARTA's famous inaugural journey in 1979, running between Avondale and Georgia State stations.
The timing is fortuitous, with the FIFA World Cup arriving in Atlanta on June 11. The new trains feature modern amenities, improved accessibility, and enhanced safety systems that MARTA says represent the most significant upgrade to its rail fleet in decades.
The launch comes amid scrutiny from an AJC investigation this week indicating that critical safety tests had not been completed by Stadler with weeks to go before the World Cup. MARTA's interim general manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt defended the readiness of the fleet.
Multiple trains are expected to enter revenue service throughout the day across the Downtown and Midtown corridors.