Canada Rejects Ontario's Plans for Billy Bishop Airport Expansion
The Canadian government has rejected Ontario's plans to expand Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The decision comes after public consultations that generated over 87,000 responses, with 87% opposing the proposed changes.
Minister of Transport Steven MacKinnon said the federal government will focus on approved safety enhancements at the airport, which are expected to be completed in mid-2027. He emphasized that any future plans for the airport must prioritize public spaces and minimize environmental impacts.
The Ontario government had proposed expanding Billy Bishop Airport as part of its economic growth strategy, citing potential benefits such as $8.5 billion in annual contributions to Canada's economy and thousands of new jobs. However, Minister MacKinnon stressed that the federal government will not support any plans that compromise public spaces or exacerbate environmental issues.