Automated low‑speed test trains began operating this week on the future Réseau express métropolitain (REM) line that will serve Montreal‑Trudeau Airport. The trial runs, which started during the week of August 13, 2026, mark the first movement of rolling stock on the dedicated airport branch that is being built as part of the larger REM rapid‑transit network.
The test trains are designed to assess the performance of the new automated system under real‑world conditions, checking track alignment, signaling and power supply before the line opens to the public. Engineers and technicians are monitoring the runs closely to verify that the infrastructure meets the safety and reliability standards required for full service.
The airport branch is a key component of the REM project, which aims to create a comprehensive rapid‑transit system encircling the Montreal region. Completion of the airport segment is scheduled for the end of 2027, linking the city’s main international gateway directly to the broader network of light‑rail lines. When finished, passengers will be able to travel from downtown Montreal and surrounding suburbs to the airport without transferring to a separate mode of transport.
Construction of the dedicated spur to the airport has progressed alongside the main REM lines that circle the island and extend into neighboring municipalities. The introduction of test trains signals that the project is moving from the construction phase toward operational readiness. Officials have indicated that the testing period will continue for several months, after which the line will undergo final certification before opening to commuters and travelers.
The REM’s airport connection is expected to enhance mobility for both residents and visitors, offering a fast, reliable alternative to road travel. As the test runs proceed, the project remains on track to meet its 2027 deadline for full service, reinforcing the REM’s role as a cornerstone of Montreal’s future public‑transport infrastructure.