What Are the Top Reasons to Experience Canada’s Stunning Landscapes and Rich History on VIA Rail Modernized Fleet?

Published on June 13, 2025

As the world’s demand for sustainable, efficient, and eco-friendly travel options continues to grow, VIA Rail Canada stands at the forefront of transforming rail travel across the country. The year 2024 has been a turning point for the state-owned corporation, marking a year of remarkable growth, operational challenges, and transformative investments. From increased ridership to the launch of a visionary long-term strategy, VIA Rail is making strides to improve the passenger experience, modernize its fleet, and expand its influence as a leader in integrated mobility.

This year, VIA Rail celebrated substantial achievements, including a record-high ridership and a bold new strategic plan, VIAction 2030, that will redefine Canadian train travel in the coming decade. The corporation also secured critical government funding to replace its aging fleet with cutting-edge trains that promise to elevate the Canadian rail experience to new heights. With a commitment to both passenger comfort and environmental sustainability, VIA Rail’s strategic initiatives underscore its pivotal role in the future of Canadian transportation.

Whether you are a business traveler, a tourism enthusiast, or simply a lover of scenic journeys, VIA Rail’s commitment to customer satisfaction and its vision for future growth will undoubtedly shape the way Canadians travel for years to come. Here’s a closer look at the milestones of 2024 and what passengers can expect as VIA Rail propels forward.

A Year of Growth: Key 2024 Milestones for VIA Rail

In 2024, VIA Rail Canada achieved several significant milestones that highlight both the corporation’s resilience and its focus on long-term development. Despite operational challenges, the organization showed remarkable progress in various aspects of its business, from expanding ridership to introducing game-changing customer features.

1. Record Growth in Ridership and Revenue

VIA Rail’s total revenues for 2024 reached $480.2 million, an increase of 11.5% compared to the previous year. This revenue spike was driven by higher demand for rail travel, with 4.4 million passengers riding VIA Rail trains throughout the year. This marks an increase of 272,000 passengers or 6.6% over 2023, underscoring the growing appeal of train travel in Canada.

2. Strategic Vision: VIAction 2030

In a bold move to reshape the future of Canadian passenger rail, VIA Rail introduced its VIAction 2030 strategic plan in 2024. This comprehensive, five-year roadmap aims to position VIA Rail as a leader in integrated mobility and provide Canadians with a seamless, sustainable, and customer-focused travel experience. The core pillars of the plan include operational improvements, a heightened emphasis on customer service, and a commitment to environmental responsibility.

The vision laid out in VIAction 2030 will see VIA Rail expand its role as a key player in the Canadian transportation network, working to enhance intermodal travel options across the country.

3. Major Fleet Modernization: New Trains for the Québec City–Windsor Corridor

2024 also marked the full arrival of VIA Rail’s new fleet in Southwestern Ontario, a crucial step in modernizing the Québec City–Windsor corridor. These state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly trains offer improved ergonomics, better stability, and brighter interiors. The new fleet will be fully operational in the Québec City–Windsor corridor by summer 2025, making it easier than ever for passengers to travel across this highly trafficked region in comfort.

With these new trains, VIA Rail is not only investing in passenger comfort but is also addressing environmental sustainability. The trains’ eco-friendly design significantly reduces carbon emissions, contributing to the corporation’s efforts to meet Canada’s environmental goals.

4. A Game-Changing New App and Reservation System

Building on the success of its new reservation system introduced in 2023, VIA Rail launched a new mobile app in 2024. This app offers passengers the ability to manage their reservations and access their VIA Preference accounts with ease. The new app enhances the digital experience for travelers, providing a more convenient and efficient way to book tickets and manage travel plans. With features designed to streamline the travel process, the app is a key tool in improving overall customer satisfaction.

Overcoming Operational Challenges

While 2024 was undeniably a year of growth for VIA Rail, it was not without its challenges. The company faced some operational hurdles, particularly in the Québec City–Windsor corridor, where new infrastructure regulations affected the on-time performance of some services. This posed challenges in maintaining the high service standards that VIA Rail passengers have come to expect.

VIA Rail has been working diligently to address these challenges, investing in infrastructure improvements and working closely with regulatory authorities to enhance the reliability of its services. The organization remains committed to improving the travel experience for all passengers, and addressing these operational setbacks is a key priority in its VIAction 2030 plan.

The Future of VIA Rail: Investment in Sustainability and Innovation

A defining moment for VIA Rail came in 2024 with the announcement of historic government funding aimed at replacing its pan-Canadian fleet. The Canadian government’s investment—the largest in VIA Rail’s history—is a monumental step toward ensuring the continued success and modernization of rail travel across Canada.

This funding will allow VIA Rail to select a supplier to design and build a new generation of comfortable, accessible, and sustainable trains. These modern trains will service VIA Rail’s long-distance routes, helping to connect Canadians from coast to coast in a manner that is both convenient and environmentally responsible. This long-term investment will not only modernize VIA Rail’s services but will also ensure that future generations of Canadians have access to a world-class rail network.

How VIA Rail’s Transformations Benefit the Canadian Tourism Sector

The ongoing modernization of VIA Rail’s fleet, along with its strategic focus on customer experience, has important implications for the tourism industry. For both business and leisure travelers, train travel offers a relaxing, scenic, and eco-friendly alternative to other modes of transportation. The introduction of new, state-of-the-art trains and innovative travel tools like the VIA Rail app makes it easier than ever for travelers to plan their trips and enjoy the journey.

In addition to enhancing the travel experience, VIA Rail’s efforts also support the growing trend of sustainable tourism. As travelers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly options, VIA Rail’s commitment to green technology and reducing its carbon footprint positions it as a strong player in the global movement toward sustainable travel.

Tourism professionals and businesses will benefit from VIA Rail’s transformation by integrating train travel into corporate and leisure travel policies. Not only does this promote sustainability, but it also offers travelers a comfortable and productive way to work while traveling.

Conclusion: VIA Rail’s Vision for a Sustainable, Connected Future

VIA Rail Canada is at the helm of a revolution in passenger rail travel, one that will benefit both Canadians and the broader tourism sector for years to come. With its bold new strategic plan, continued investment in fleet modernization, and commitment to sustainability, VIA Rail is poised to lead the way in integrated, sustainable travel across the country. As the corporation navigates both challenges and opportunities, it remains dedicated to providing Canadians with an exceptional travel experience.

With innovative services, cutting-edge trains, and a clear vision for the future, VIA Rail is a powerful example of how transportation innovation can transform the way we travel, connect, and explore the beauty of Canada.

For more details on VIA Rail’s future plans, visit their official website and stay updated with their progress as they continue to shape the future of Canadian rail travel.