Tshiuetin Rail Modernizes Trains with Butterfly Seating Innovation
14.06.2025
Transforming Train Travel in Northern Canada
Tshiuetin Rail has adopted Butterfly’s flexible 3-in-1 seating solution to enhance rider comfort and operational efficiency on its long-distance routes across northern Quebec and Labrador. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
The innovative seats convert manually from upright recliners to private lounges or fully flat beds, offering comfort and privacy for passengers on the 12-hour journey. Originally developed for aircraft and coaches, this marks the first use of Butterfly seating in passenger trains in North America.

Modular Flexibility for Long-Haul Rail
The modular design allows operators to adapt train interiors based on seasonal or passenger demand, eliminating the limitations of fixed layouts. This improves capacity planning and offers a better travel experience for riders.
Lars Rinne, CEO of Butterfly, emphasized that the system is fast to install, easy to operate, and directly addresses real community needs.
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A Collaborative Canadian Effort
The modernization effort is led by Canadian Railway Services, with backing from the Canada Infrastructure Bank. Several partners contribute to the project:
- Rail GD provides engineering support
- Morelli Design Transport contributes cultural design expertise
These collaborations bring both technical quality and regional relevance to the passenger upgrade.
Supporting Indigenous Communities with Modern Design
Tshiuetin Rail plays a vital role in connecting remote Indigenous communities, including the Innu, Naskapi, and Cree populations. The seating upgrade is part of a broader movement to modernize rail service while being culturally inclusive and respectful of regional needs.
By merging technical innovation with cultural awareness, Tshiuetin Rail reinforces its role as a forward-thinking and community-centered transportation provider in Canada.
Source: GlobalData
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