The province has purchased a $28.9 million private jet for Premier Doug Ford’s “extensive travel” within Ontario and to the United States, CTV News has learned.
Ford’s government has purchased a pre-owned 2016 Challenger 650, citing the premier’s regular travel throughout the province and the need to make frequent trips to the United States “to help make the case against President Trump’s tariffs,” the premier’s office confirmed in a statement.
“This is significantly less than the $107 million Quebec paid for its fleet of one pre-owned and two brand-new Challenger 650s or the $753 million the Government of Canada paid for its six new Global 6500 jets,” the statement read, defending the move in light of fresh criticism from opposing MPPs.
CTV News has also learned that the plane won’t be ready until the end of July.
It should be noted that news of this purchase arrives just weeks after Ontario seized ownership of Billy Bishop Airport, with plans to extend the runway to accommodate jet traffic.
Opposition calls timing ‘terrible’
In an interview Friday morning with CP24 Breakfast, Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles explained that the purchase sends the wrong message.
“Ontarians are struggling…and the premier of this province thinks now is a great time to buy a private jet. I think it’s a terrible timing,” she said.
Stiles went on to suggest that alternative cheaper options are still on the table.
“I think he should use the government planes that we already own, frankly, and that he has been using... or take flights like the rest of us.”
Ford’s new jet is also equipped with seating for up to 12 passengers with a “spacious interior,” according to the company’s website.
Stiles also tied the decision to broader concerns about the government’s direction.
“It tells you now how out of touch he is, that he doesn’t even take regular flights like the rest of us.”
Liberals question need and cost
Interim Ontario Liberal Leader John Fraser, speaking to Newstalk 1010 this morning, was a bit more blunt in his reaction.
“People can’t afford groceries and gas, and the premier, Doug Ford, is buying himself a jet that’s tired and out of touch,” he said.
Fraser also questioned whether a dedicated aircraft is necessary at all.
“The premier doesn’t need a jet, like, literally, every premier in Ontario since Confederation hasn’t needed a jet.”
He suggested chartering would be more practical.
“You can use charters. It’s actually more efficient. It’s more cost effective,“ he said. “I couldn’t believe it.”
“There’s an affordability crisis in Ontario, and the Premier doesn’t see it. It will be harder to see clearly from 40,000 feet in a private jet.”
