VIA Rail Canada experienced a steep drop in on-time performance in Q1 2025, falling to 30% from 72% last year due to restrictions by CN Rail in the Québec City–Windsor corridor. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

VIA Rail is currently hiring for multiple well-paid positions across Canada, offering salaries up to $32/hour.
VIA Rail train at a station.
@viarailcanada | Instagram

These operational barriers extended travel times, disrupted service flow, and directly impacted passenger satisfaction. As a result, VIA Rail Canada saw its first post-pandemic ridership decline, down 2.7% year-over-year.

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Despite the disruptions, the company reported an 8.3% revenue increase compared to Q1 2024, driven by stable operations outside the affected corridor and steady demand for intercity travel.

CN Restrictions Challenge VIA Rail Canada’s Stability

VIA Rail Canada criticized the imposed CN Rail limitations, calling them arbitrary and harmful to its reliability. The company stressed that these restrictions are not linked to safety issues or regulatory noncompliance.

In response, VIA Rail launched a legal challenge and initiated discussions with Transport Canada, seeking a solution to restore consistent and timely rail service for Canadian passengers.

CEO Mario Péloquin reaffirmed that VIA Rail remains fully compliant with all regulations. He emphasized that the delays result solely from external infrastructure constraints beyond the company’s control.

Revenue Growth and Legal Action Shape the Outlook

While operational reliability suffered, VIA Rail demonstrated financial resilience. Revenue gains helped offset the effects of lower ridership and logistical disruptions in core travel corridors.

Looking ahead, the company is urging federal authorities to implement fair access policies in shared corridors, ensuring passenger rail receives priority alongside freight services.

For Canadians relying on intercity trains, the resolution of this issue will be vital. VIA Rail Canada remains focused on restoring punctual, efficient, and safe travel across its national network.

Source: railpace.com

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