NTSB Recommends SEPTA Suspend Over 200 Railcars After Five Fires

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has recommended that SEPTA suspend operations of its Silverliner IV railcars due to a series of electrical fires posing an immediate and unacceptable safety risk. These aging railcars, which make up about 58-66% of SEPTA's Regional Rail fleet, have experienced multiple fires over the past year, including a significant incident in February 2025 where a fire started in the propulsion system's electrical components. The NTSB investigation highlighted outdated designs, maintenance lapses, and organizational failures that have allowed defective cars to remain in service, emphasizing the need for extensive retrofits or fleet replacement. SEPTA's General Manager Scott Sauer has expressed confidence in current mitigation efforts and emphasized the severe financial impact of pulling the fleet, but SEPTA has been urged to improve safety practices and respond to federal directives. Meanwhile, administrative actions have been taken within SEPTA's maintenance leadership, reflecting the seriousness of the safety concerns. The Federal Railroad Administration has mandated immediate safety measures including inspections and fire protection installations, while SEPTA awaits further guidance on how to proceed with balancing safety and service continuity.