Province Moves to Sell Newly Acquired Aircraft Following Criticism
Ontario Premier Doug Ford's government is moving to sell a $28.9 million private jet, purchased just days ago for the premier's use, following significant public backlash. The province stated it is working with Bombardier and other partners to offload the aircraft "as quickly as possible." This abrupt reversal comes after initial defenses of the purchase, which officials claimed would facilitate "more certain, flexible, secure and confidential travel" for the premier, including travel across Ontario, Canada, and to the United States for economic outreach and to contest tariffs.
Ford himself acknowledged the public's concerns, stating in a released statement Sunday that he "agree[s] that now is not the right time for the expense of a government plane." This concession followed intense criticism from opposition parties and advocacy groups, who decried the purchase as out of touch with the financial struggles faced by many Ontarians. The jet, a pre-owned 2016 Bombardier Challenger 650, was intended to support government travel and economic promotion.
Read More: Nancy Sinatra says Trump using dad's song 'My Way' is wrong
Interim Ontario Liberal Leader John Fraser characterized the situation as Ford "feeling the heat" and scrambling to reverse course. He added that while the reversal is a "great win for taxpayers," the government's actions reflect a pattern of treating taxpayer funds irresponsibly. Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles had previously voiced similar sentiments, suggesting the government was disconnected from residents experiencing financial pressures. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation director also hailed the decision as a victory for taxpayers.
The Challenger 650 is a large-cabin business jet typically configured for nine to 12 passengers, boasting a range of approximately 4,000 nautical miles, enabling non-stop flights between major North American cities and some transatlantic routes. This capability was cited by the province as beneficial for diplomatic and economic missions.
Read More: Ontario Cottage Country Flood Warnings Issued April 14
Interestingly, reports suggest Premier Ford himself is not fond of flying, particularly in smaller aircraft, a detail that reportedly fueled some of the public's skepticism regarding the necessity of a dedicated government jet. The aircraft, now dubbed "Air Ford One" by some critics, has apparently been grounded before its intended first flight. The government had previously justified the expense by highlighting the premier's frequent travel within the province, often on smaller OPP planes, and chartered flights to the United States for trade advocacy.
