In a significant move that has sparked both praise and critique, the Ontario government has announced the purchase of a pre-owned private jet for Premier Doug Ford at a cost of £28.9 million. The Challenger 650 aircraft, manufactured by Bombardier in Quebec, is said to be essential for the Premier’s extensive travel commitments, both within the province and beyond.
Justification for the Purchase
The Ontario government has defended the acquisition, citing the Premier’s frequent travel across the vast province and to meetings with fellow premiers and the Prime Minister. A spokesperson for Ford indicated that the jet will primarily operate out of Toronto Pearson International Airport, despite the Premier’s recent plans to expand the City of Toronto’s stake in Billy Bishop Airport to accommodate jets.
According to Hannah Jensen, the Premier’s spokesperson, “As part of the job of being Premier of Ontario, there is extensive travel within Ontario, a province twice the landmass of Texas.” She emphasised the increased frequency of meetings such as the Council of the Federation and First Ministers’ gatherings, as well as trips to the United States aimed at advocating for Ontario businesses against U.S. tariffs.
Cost Comparison and Specifications
This new acquisition has raised eyebrows, particularly in light of the cost. Jensen highlighted that the purchase price is substantially lower than other government aircraft expenditures, noting that Quebec spent £107 million on its fleet of Challenger jets, while the federal government allocated a staggering £753 million for six Global 6500 jets.
The Challenger 650, which seats up to 12 passengers, boasts a range of approximately 7,400 kilometres. Following thorough mechanical inspections, the government has taken possession of the aircraft, which will feature the provincial logo. Prior to the purchase, its flight logs were reviewed by the Ontario Provincial Police.
Historical Context and Political Backlash
The decision to buy a private jet for the Premier has a controversial history in Ontario politics. In 1981, then-Premier Bill Davis faced intense backlash after acquiring a £10.6 million Challenger jet, which many viewed as an extravagant expense during an economic downturn. Following 15 months of public outcry, he ultimately decided to sell the aircraft.
Interestingly, Premier Ford previously claimed to be the only Ontario Premier to avoid using private aircraft, stating in 2019, “I’m the only Premier in history that refuses to use the Premier’s plane, the King Air, that costs the taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars. I prefer to drive around and talk to the people about things that matter.”
Responses from Other Provincial Leaders
Reactions from other provincial leaders have varied. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith commented that she trusts Ontario to assess the business case for the purchase, while asserting that she personally prefers commercial flights or vehicle travel. Similarly, representatives from Manitoba, New Brunswick, and British Columbia confirmed their premiers fly commercially, with occasional charter flights for remote areas.
Critics from the Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Ontario Liberal Party have condemned the decision, arguing that the funds could be better spent on essential services such as education and healthcare. NDP Leader Marit Stiles stated, “Ford ran on a promise to stop the gravy train only to spend millions of taxpayer dollars on his gravy plane. This is ridiculous.” Interim Ontario Liberal Leader John Fraser echoed these sentiments, labelling the purchase as “tone-deaf” in light of rising living costs for Ontarians.
Community Reaction
Activist groups like NoJetsTO are also voicing their concerns regarding the jet’s purchase, linking it to Ford’s proposal for expanding Billy Bishop Airport. “The timing of Premier Ford’s purchase of his taxpayer-funded ‘Gravy Plane’ and his sudden interest in expanding the island airport is not a coincidence,” stated Norm Di Pasquale from the organisation.
Why it Matters
The acquisition of a private jet for Premier Doug Ford encapsulates ongoing tensions in Ontario politics, particularly regarding public expenditure and government accountability. As the province grapples with pressing economic issues, the decision raises questions about priorities and the appropriate use of taxpayer money. This development not only affects the Premier’s travel logistics but also reflects broader sentiments about governance, transparency, and public trust in leadership.