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O-Train

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OC Transpo’s O-Train is Ottawa’s rapid transit metro system connecting the downtown to the airport and surrounding suburbs.

All Nodes

O-Train is the rapid transit metro system operated by OC Transpo connecting Ottawa with the surrounding suburbs (notably: South Keys, Orléans) and directly to Ottawa (YOW) Airport. Fully grade separated, the O-Train runs on a mix of grade level, elevated, trenches, and an underground section through the downtown Parliament Hill area.

Tickets

Pay for tickets at the bus fare box, or Fare Vending Machines located at stations.

Presto is the automated fare collection system for OC Transpo.

Credit cards and mobile wallets are also accepted via O-Payment.

Fares

OC Transpo uses a timed ticket system. Ride and transfer for up to 90-105 minutes.

A single ride fare is $4.15 ($4.10 with Presto).

Baggage

OC Transpo’s “Travel Tips” page breaks down what riders can and cannot bring onboard.

Destinations

The O-Train acts as the backbone for OC Transpo. The system is designed to funnel buses to the train. Most buses start/terminate at an O-Train station. While not covering all of Ottawa, the system currently serves the downtown core/Centretown, ByWard Market, uOttawa, Carleton University, South Keys, and Gloucester

Schedule

The O-Train operates 3 lines:

  • Line 1 Blair – Tunney’s Pasture
  • Line 2 Limebank – Bayview
  • Line 3 Trim – Moodie (under construction)
  • Line 4 South Keys – Airport

Onboard

The SkyTrain runs on a mix of underground and elevated guideways. Along the elevated guideways, riders will have experience scenic views of the skyline and the Coastal Mountains evoking a cyberpunk-esqu city landscape, especially during the evening, sunset hours.

2001

First service

~35.5

Km

Route length

Annual passengers

Official Page

Classes

Pros

  1. The O-Train is a fast way to cross the city, especially through downtown.
  2. Fast, frequent service on Line 1.
  3. Airport rail connection means a smoother way to reach the airport.
  4. Great for students attending uOttawa and Carleton with stations on campus.

Cons

  1. Reliability especially with O-Train Line 1 means frequent delays.
  2. There is no direct airport rail link to downtown; travellers have to change trains twice.
  3. The system is heavily dependent on bus connections.
  4. The network is not quite as extensive as systems in Toronto, Montréal, or Vancouver.
  5. The R1 replacement bus service is very slow.

Notes

Notes
  • For visitors, The O-Train is a great way to explore Ottawa and discover suburban areas of the city.

All systems operated by

VIA Rail Canada