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Montreal’s REM airport line has hit a major milestone as automated train testing begins.
The REM airport branch is entering a major new testing phase, bringing Montréal-Trudeau International Airport one step closer to being connected to Montreal’s light-rail network.
Dynamic testing began on August 8 and 9, with REM trains operating automatically at low speeds on the new branch. The testing is designed to verify every part of the new infrastructure, from the trains and platform screen doors to communications and other essential systems.
Read: Plane crashes at Montreal’s new airport—everything you need to know
Over the coming weeks, testing will gradually ramp up, with trains operating more frequently and at higher speeds as construction progresses.
Will the REM go to the airport?
The commissioning of the two stations remains scheduled for the end of 2027. Both stations will open together once testing and integration work is complete.
The YUL–Aéroport-Montréal-Trudeau branch includes:
- 3 km of track
- 2.5 km of tunnel
- 2 stations: Marie-Curie and YUL–Aéroport-Montréal-Trudeau
The two stations will be commissioned at the same time because several systems—including fire protection and ventilation—are designed to work together.
Read more: Montréal-Trudeau REM station 85% complete and set to serve millions of passengers
For now, REM trains are operating as far as Marie-Curie station. The testing zone will expand once Aéroports de Montréal completes construction of the YUL–Aéroport-Montréal-Trudeau station.
Testing will help ensure the new stations are fully integrated with the rest of the REM network and that all systems meet the required quality, reliability and safety standards.
What happens next?
The start of automated testing marks an important milestone for the REM airport connection, which will eventually provide a direct rail link between downtown Montreal and Montréal-Trudeau International Airport.
Testing will continue as construction advances, followed by several key stages:
- Expansion of the testing area as work on the YUL–Aéroport-Montréal-Trudeau station progresses
- Integration of the airport branch with the existing REM network
- Trial operations, with trains running without passengers under normal service conditions
- Commissioning of the two stations
What does REM stand for in Montreal?
REM stands for Réseau express métropolitain (Metropolitan Express Network).
For more information about YUL-Aéroport-Montréal-Trudeau, click here.
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