VIA Rail Launches Non-Stop Service Between Montréal and Toronto

VIA Rail is set to enhance travel options between two of Canada’s largest cities by introducing a non-stop train service from Montréal to Toronto starting on September 29, 2023. This new service will not stop at several eastern Ontario locations, including Cornwall, Brockville, Kingston, and Belleville, as part of a three-month pilot project.

The announcement was confirmed to CTV News Ottawa by VIA Rail, which stated that the pilot program aims to assess passenger demand for a faster travel option between the two urban centres. The direct trains, specifically trains 60, 61, 68, and 69, will operate without stops between Montréal and Toronto, providing an alternative to air and car travel.

According to VIA Rail, the goal of the initiative is to promote train travel as a “smarter choice” for commuters seeking efficient transportation. The company noted that while the direct service will not serve all communities along the route, other trains will continue to provide access to VIA Rail services for residents in those areas.

Details of the Pilot Project

The non-stop service will run from September 29 to December 20/December 21, 2023. This period will allow VIA Rail to gather feedback and data on the direct route’s popularity among travelers. The company believes that the convenience of direct travel between downtown hubs will appeal to both business and leisure passengers.

In a statement, VIA Rail emphasized the importance of adapting to the needs of modern commuters. “By testing faster travel times between the two largest cities in Canada, we hope to cement the train as the smarter choice over air and car travel,” the company said.

As VIA Rail prepares to launch this new service, it remains committed to ensuring that all communities have access to its services. With this pilot project, the company aims not only to improve travel efficiency but also to encourage more people to consider train travel as a viable alternative for intercity journeys.

Travelers interested in the new non-stop service are encouraged to check the VIA Rail schedule for specific times and additional details about ticket availability. As the pilot progresses, feedback from passengers will likely play a crucial role in determining the future of this service and the potential for similar routes across Canada.