In light of the ongoing efforts deployed by the public health authorities to limit the COVID-19 propagation VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail) is suspending its Canadian and Ocean operations, its long-distance Eastern and Western routes, until Friday, March 27, inclusively.
“This exceptional preventive measure was made to help minimize the risk of contamination to the best of our ability. The government’s recommendations on social distancing and travel limitations are in line with our Illness Control Plan, which is focused on the health and safety of our passengers and employees,” said Cynthia Garneau, President, and CEO.
“I apologize for any inconvenience this difficult decision has caused our customers and employees and thank them for their understanding and patience”, continued Cynthia Garneau. “I also want to specify that we will keep offering our regional services to remote communities until further notice, with updated schedules and conditions. As for other services, we are evaluating all possible options as the situation continues to evolve.”
Via Rail continues to deploy additional strict cleanliness and hygiene protocols for its other trains in operation as long as they are in use.
This decision results in the cancellation of 22 trains and affects over 1,800 passengers.
Overview of Services
This information is subject to change without notice
| Route | Service |
| Montréal-Toronto | Full service on these eight routes |
| Toronto-Ottawa | |
| Toronto- London-Windsor | |
| Toronto-Sarnia | |
| Toronto-Niagara Falls | |
| Québec City-Montréal-Ottawa | |
| Senneterre-Jonquière | |
| Winnipeg-Churchill |
The Ocean (Montréal-Halifax), The Canadian (Toronto-Vancouver) canceled until March 27 inclusively. Prince Rupert-Prince George-Jasper service canceled until March 31 inclusively.
Flexibility for passengers
Passengers who choose to change their travel plans will be accommodated. For maximum flexibility, passengers can cancel or modify their reservation at any time prior to departure during the month of March and April and receive a full refund in addition to not incurring any service charges, regardless of when they purchased their ticket. This includes all travel up to and including April 30, 2020, as well as any travel after April 30, 2020, if their outbound train is on or before April 30, 2020.
VIA Rail continues to closely monitor the development of COVID-19 and we remain in close contact with public health agencies and the federal and provincial governments.
The most recent updates are available at Via Rail Canada.
Image: Jasmin Sessler on Unsplash
