VIA Rail Canada has reported stable passenger numbers and increased revenue for the 2025 financial year, alongside continued operational and infrastructure pressures.
Between 1 January and 31 December 2025, the rail operator carried 4.4 million passengers, broadly consistent with the previous year. Total revenue rose by 36.8 million CAD (7.7%) to 514.8 million CAD. The organisation attributed part of the increase to greater use of fare and service options introduced through its updated reservation system.
VIA Rail Canada train
© VIA Rail
However, VIA Rail also reported operational pressures linked to constraints on rail infrastructure access, the introduction of new rolling stock, and the complexity of running passenger services on shared track.
Limited availability of train paths on sections of the network affected scheduling and consistency of operations, while the integration of 32 new trainsets in the Québec City–Windsor corridor required adjustments to maintenance procedures and service preparation.
Interim President and Chief Executive Officer Mathieu Paquette said:
Canadians rely on us every day, and we know how important it is that we deliver for them. 2025 was a complex year, marked by access constraints and the integration of a new fleet, and we recognise that some of these challenges affected the experience of our customers. As a result, we are determined to strengthen reliability, deepen our operational discipline, and deliver the level of service Canadians deserve.
Modernising our fleet is only the first step. Our priority now is ensuring that our operations reflect the full potential of this new equipment. We are concentrating on what we can control: maintenance discipline, departure readiness, and continuous improvement across our operations.
During 2025, VIA Rail completed the delivery of 32 new trainsets for the Québec City–Windsor corridor. Following their introduction, internal efforts have shifted towards stabilising performance and adjusting maintenance and operational procedures for the new equipment.
The company also reported progress in procurement activities for its planned pan-Canadian fleet renewal. The Request for Qualifications phase was completed, and a Request for Proposals was issued during the year. The programme covers long-distance, regional, and remote services.
VIA Rail reported that it covered 58% of its operating costs through self-generated revenue in 2025. The organisation stated that it continues to pursue efficiency measures, including technology-based tools and initiatives aimed at reducing fuel use.
Chair of the Board Jonathan Goldbloom said:
Passenger rail is a public service designed to connect and support Canadians from coast to coast to coast. While this essential service is subsidised to ensure it remains accessible to all citizens, we are proud of the meaningful progress we are making to reduce our reliance on public funding. Through strong financial stewardship and a commitment to innovation, VIA Rail is working hard to narrow the subsidy gap while continuing to deliver safe, reliable, accessible and sustainable service for Canadians.
The organisation also highlighted its participation in the Government of Canada’s Canada Strong Pass programme during the year, which provided reduced fares for selected travellers. VIA Rail said the initiative contributed to increased travel opportunities for families and young adults.
VIA Rail’s priorities now include improving operational reliability, supporting integration of new rolling stock, and continuing work on fleet renewal. It also noted ongoing coordination with host railways as part of its network operations.
The company’s annual report is available online via its website.