Air Canada, one of the country's leading airlines, has joined the Cadence consortium bidding to build and operate a high-frequency rail network (HFR).
This network will connect the main cities of Eastern Canada and marks a significant step towards seamless mobility between different modes of transport. Air Canada's decision underscores the trend to integrate air and rail transport to better meet the needs of travellers while promoting sustainable mobility solutions.
The Cadence consortium is a partnership of CDPQ Infra, SYSTRA Canada, AtkinsRéalis Canada and Keolis Canada. Recently, the French high-speed train operator SNCF Voyageurs also joined the consortium. This partnership aims to develop a high-frequency rail network connecting the major cities in the Quebec-Windsor corridor. The cities to be connected by the planned network are Windsor, Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Quebec City. This network will play a key role in improving transport connectivity and mobility between these major urban centres.
Air Canada, which operates hubs at Toronto Pearson and Montréal Trudeau airports, sees the project as an opportunity to improve connectivity among Canadians both within the country and internationally. The airline stresses that integrating a rail network into existing transport networks will contribute to harmonious mobility that meets the specific needs of customers.
The Cadence consortium is one of three applicants prequalified by the Canadian government for the project and submitted a non-public response to the government's request for proposals in late July 2024. Following the contract signing, the government-owned VIA HFR is expected to begin a joint development phase with the private development partner in late 2024 to early 2025.
The development process involves several phases, including detailed planning, permitting, financing and ultimately construction of the rail network. The project is expected to encounter challenges that may be both technical and financial in nature. However, the involvement of Air Canada could help overcome these challenges by providing additional expertise and resources.
Outlook and significance for the future
Air Canada's involvement in this project signals a growing awareness of the need to efficiently integrate different modes of transport. If successfully implemented, the high-frequency rail network could serve as a model for similar projects in other regions. The integration of rail and air transport could not only improve mobility, but also help reduce the environmental impact of the transport sector.
The project is in line with global efforts to create more sustainable and integrated mobility solutions. It also demonstrates Air Canada's commitment to offering its customers comprehensive and environmentally friendly travel options.
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