Ontario Buys Used Jet for Premier Ford at C$28.9 Million

The Ontario government has purchased a used 2016 Bombardier Challenger 650 private jet for 28.9 million Canadian dollars, primarily to facilitate travel by Premier Doug Ford, officials confirmed this week. The 12-seat aircraft, capable of flying 7,400 kilometers, will operate from Toronto's Pearson International Airport and is expected to become operational by the end of July.

Ford's office described the acquisition as essential for the demands of the premier's role, citing Ontario's vast size, which is twice that of Texas, and the need for frequent trips within the province. The plane will also support interprovincial meetings, including those with other premiers and the prime minister through the Council of the Federation, as well as journeys to the United States to advocate against tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. "This purchase enables more certain, flexible, secure and confidential travel," the office stated, adding that the used jet costs far less than similar purchases by other governments. For comparison, Quebec spent 107 million on a fleet of three Challenger 650s, including two new ones, while the federal government allocated 753 million for six new Global...