VIA RAIL ANTICIPATES A BUSY HOLIDAY SEASON

Montreal, December 7, 2016 – With millions of travellers facing road congestion and severe winter weather during the holiday season, VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail) is encouraging people to avoid the traffic jams and travel in comfort and safety on the train.

Based on increased ridership built through initiatives including additional departures and service improvements, VIA Rail foresees a busy festive season. Front-line employees will be on hand to see to passengers’ needs and ensure they have an enjoyable trip. Capacity has been increased on the trains in highest demand in the Québec City-Windsor Corridor to accommodate more passengers. As well, the addition of six departures to the Ocean route between Montreal and Halifax over the holidays means that more tickets are available at our lowest available fares so people can celebrate with their loved ones.

Although there are seats still available on most trains, VIA Rail recommends making reservations as soon as possible.Download the VIA Rail app, or buy your tickets online or by phone at 1 888 VIA RAIL (1 888 842-7245).

VIA Rail will bring its passengers some holiday cheer by offering chocolates on board from December 16 to January 2. On December 24, 25, 31, and January 1, passengers in Business class will also be served sparkling wine.

About VIA Rail Canada
As Canada's national rail passenger service, VIA Rail (viarail.ca) and its 2,600 employees are mandated to provide safe, efficient and economical passenger transportation service, in both official languages of our country. VIA Rail operates intercity, regional and transcontinental trains linking over 400 communities across Canada, and about 180 more communities through intermodal partnerships, and safely transports nearly four million passengers annually. The Corporation was awarded seven Safety Awards by the Railway Association of Canada over the last eight years. For more information, visit: www.viarail.ca/en/about-via-rail