Travel Canada’s Rail Network with Ease: VIA Rail’s New Accessibility Plan

Published on December 9, 2025

VIA Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service, has launched its 2026-29 accessibility plan, a significant step towards improving inclusivity and accessibility for travelers with disabilities. The new plan, developed in collaboration with specialist partners and individuals with disabilities, aims to enhance VIA Rail’s network, digital tools, and workplace environment to ensure a more accessible and inclusive travel experience for all Canadians.

With a focus on improving accessibility across its entire service, VIA Rail seeks to remove barriers for travelers with disabilities, ensuring they have an equal and seamless experience while traveling across the country. The accessibility plan, which spans three years, includes upgrades to infrastructure, improvements in digital accessibility, and enhanced customer service for people with diverse needs. The plan comes as part of a larger national effort to make Canadian tourism and transport systems more inclusive and welcoming for everyone, regardless of ability.

Enhancing VIA Rail’s Network Accessibility

A core component of the 2026-29 accessibility plan is upgrading VIA Rail’s infrastructure to ensure it accommodates travelers with disabilities. This includes modifications to stations and on-board facilities, making them more accessible to people with mobility impairments, hearing or visual disabilities, and other needs.

VIA Rail is committed to making its stations more user-friendly for all passengers. The company plans to enhance platform accessibility, install elevators and ramps where necessary, and improve station signage to make it clearer for travelers with visual impairments. Upgrades to the railcars will also be made, ensuring they are equipped with accessible seating, restrooms, and other facilities designed to cater to the needs of disabled travelers.

VIA Rail’s goal is to ensure that people with disabilities can travel smoothly from the moment they step onto the platform to the time they reach their destination, all while enjoying the scenic beauty and comfort of rail travel across Canada.

Digital Tools and Website Enhancements

In addition to physical infrastructure, VIA Rail is focused on improving its digital services to make it easier for travelers with disabilities to access information and services. The new accessibility plan includes an overhaul of VIA Rail’s website and mobile apps, making them more accessible to users with visual impairments and those relying on assistive technologies such as screen readers.

The enhanced digital experience will allow passengers to book tickets, view train schedules, and get real-time updates about their travel in a way that is clear, navigable, and easy to use. Features such as audio descriptions, screen reader-friendly designs, and accessible booking forms will ensure that travelers with disabilities can plan and book their journeys with ease.

The digital improvements also include improved online customer support for travelers with specific accessibility needs. VIA Rail plans to implement a 24/7 online assistance service where customers can get personalized support for their travel needs, ensuring they have a smooth experience every step of the way.

Workplace Inclusivity for Employees with Disabilities

VIA Rail’s 2026-29 accessibility plan also extends to creating an inclusive workplace for its employees. The company is committed to making its work environment more accessible to employees with disabilities by providing reasonable accommodations and ensuring that all staff members have the support they need to thrive.

VIA Rail’s workforce will undergo training to better understand the needs of disabled colleagues and passengers, fostering a more inclusive culture throughout the organization. The company aims to create a supportive and diverse environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute to the success of VIA Rail’s services and operations.

Promoting Tourism for Disabled Travelers in Canada

With this comprehensive accessibility initiative, VIA Rail aims to increase the appeal of Canadian rail travel for disabled tourists, who often face significant challenges when traveling. By removing barriers in transportation, VIA Rail is helping to make Canada’s iconic rail routes accessible to a wider audience, providing tourists with disabilities the opportunity to explore the country’s natural beauty and vibrant cities.

Canada’s scenic rail routes, such as the Vancouver-to-Toronto route and the journey through the Canadian Rockies, are among the most sought-after experiences for tourists. By improving accessibility, VIA Rail ensures that travelers with disabilities can now enjoy these unforgettable journeys alongside their peers. The accessibility plan also includes initiatives to work with local tourism boards and organizations to promote inclusive travel experiences across the country.

The inclusive approach will also extend to partnerships with hotels, tourist attractions, and other transportation services to ensure that disabled tourists can seamlessly connect from rail travel to other forms of transportation, accommodations, and experiences.

Looking Ahead: VIA Rail’s Commitment to Accessibility

VIA Rail’s 2026-29 accessibility plan reflects the company’s long-term commitment to providing inclusive travel services for all Canadians. By investing in infrastructure, improving digital accessibility, and fostering an inclusive workplace, VIA Rail is setting the stage for a more accessible and diverse transportation network that serves both local residents and international visitors alike.

As the plan is implemented over the next few years, VIA Rail will continue to engage with passengers, disability advocates, and accessibility experts to ensure its services meet the evolving needs of the disabled community. The company also plans to regularly assess the impact of these changes, ensuring that they deliver a tangible improvement in the travel experience for passengers with disabilities.

Conclusion: A More Inclusive Future for Canadian Travel

VIA Rail’s new accessibility plan is a crucial step towards making Canada’s transportation network more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. With enhanced infrastructure, better digital tools, and a focus on workforce inclusivity, VIA Rail is leading the way in accessible rail travel across the country. The 2026-29 accessibility plan will help open up the world of Canadian tourism to a broader audience, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the country, regardless of ability.