Ontario Premier Doug Ford, province to sell $28.9M private jet 'as quickly as possible'

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his government have announced plans to sell a recently purchased $28.9 million private jet, a Bombardier Challenger 650, "as quickly as possible." The decision follows widespread public and political backlash after the purchase was made public just days earlier. Ford acknowledged the concerns raised, stating that despite good intentions, the timing and expense of acquiring the government plane were inappropriate. The jet was bought to support the premier’s extensive travel within Ontario, across Canada, and to the United States, particularly to advocate against U.S. tariffs imposed under former President Donald Trump. The province defended the purchase initially, emphasizing the plane’s role in providing secure, flexible, and confidential travel for official business. The Bombardier Challenger 650, manufactured in Canada in 2016, was acquired pre-owned directly from Bombardier, with security and mechanical inspections completed by Ontario Provincial Police and the manufacturer, requiring no upgrades. Opposition parties and advocacy groups swiftly criticized the purchase as an unnecessary luxury amid ongoing fiscal pressures. Interim Ontario Liberal Leader John Fraser accused Ford of wanting to "live like a billionaire" at taxpayers’ expense and suggested the premier only reversed course after facing intense public scrutiny. The controversy highlights broader debates about government spending priorities and accountability, especially during times of economic uncertainty. The provincial government is now working with Bombardier and other partners to expedite the sale of the jet. This episode underscores the political sensitivity surrounding high-cost government expenditures and the importance of public perception in decisions involving taxpayer funds. The outcome may influence future government policies on travel and asset acquisitions.