The introduction of regional rail in Alberta is set to be an economic game-changer for our city and the province. An important step in addressing climate change, advocating for and laying the groundwork for delivering these inter-city connections is a critical investment that will be felt for generations.

The Calgary Airport to Banff Rail (CABR) is positioned to be an especially unique North American rail project - using the first hydrogen-powered passenger train in North America, CABR will connect FlyYYC (Canada’s third busiest airport) to downtown Calgary and Banff, Canada’s first and busiest National Park. The CABR system will be comprised of seven stops including Calgary Airport, Calgary Keith, Calgary Downtown, Cochrane, Morley (Stoney Nakoda), Canmore, and Banff.

Proposed to be built on its own dedicated line and entirely within YYC lands and the CP Rail corridor, CABR is revisioning Canada’s aspirations to strengthen our country by better connecting people to places.

Liricon Capital and Plenary Americas are the primary groups behind this project. Their plans include a public-private partnership, working with the Government of Alberta to hold consultation with Indigenous communities in the Bow Valley as well as the other municipalities set to be included in this project.

THE BENEFITS OF CABR RAIL SERVICE INCLUDE:

An expedited solution to connect Calgary with its Airport and mountains.
Help with downtown revitalization by linking it to the airport with service every ten minutes.
Commuter service for Cochrane, northwest and northeast Calgary residents to downtown.
Compliments Calgary Transit Blue and Green Line expansion plans and the Edmonton to Calgary High-Speed Rail plans.
Potential to be the first hydrogen-powered passenger train in North America (Banff National Park Net Zero 2035 – targeting net zero greenhouse gas emissions).
A catalyst and demonstration project for Alberta’s hydrogen strategy and leadership in the energy transition.
Opportunity to address wildlife mortality mitigation utilizing fencing and wildlife crossings, or the adoption of new technology (lighting and sound to warn wildlife of approaching trains).
Reducing GHG emissions by park visitors. Banff’s 4.2 million annual visitors overwhelm capacity due to vehicles, degrading the visitor experience. CABR serves as a catalyst for low-emission transportation and an enhanced pedestrian experience within the park.
Ensures Alberta remains a competitive world-class travel destination - Rail transit draws travellers from global markets. Plus, CABR is set to be North America’s only airport to a national park rail service.

To learn more about this project, including risk mitigation, answers to FAQ’s, and project updates, visit the Friends of CABR project page.