The Ontario government has reversed its controversial purchase of a private jet for Premier Doug Ford's official use by selling the aircraft back to Bombardier for the exact price originally paid. The Bombardier Challenger 650 has been returned to the manufacturer for $28.9 million, the same amount Ontario spent on the used jet.
Premier Announces Sale at Toronto Conference
Ford made the announcement during a conference in downtown Toronto on Wednesday morning, confirming that the province had completed the transaction with Bombardier. The premier acknowledged public criticism of the purchase and stated he had instructed his staff to sell the aircraft as quickly as possible.
Original Purchase and Justification
Ontario initially acquired the used Bombardier Challenger 650 to facilitate Ford's travels across the province and to the United States, particularly for trips related to addressing Donald Trump's tariffs. The government defended the purchase as necessary for providing flexible, secure, and confidential travel for official government business, citing the extensive geography Ford covers in his duties.
Public and Political Backlash
The jet purchase faced immediate criticism from opposition parties and the public, who labeled the nearly $29 million expenditure as wasteful and out of touch during a period of growing concerns about affordability and government spending. Critics mocked the aircraft as a "gravy plane" and argued that the funds would be better allocated to healthcare, education, or hospital improvements.
Public reaction intensified when contrasted with rising cost-of-living pressures, with Toronto residents particularly vocal about what they perceived as misplaced priorities in government spending.
Ford's Defense and Comparison
In response to criticism, Ford pointed to similar jet purchases by Quebec and the federal government for ministerial travel, arguing that his travel requirements were comparable. He maintained that no public official faces more scrutiny than himself while defending the initial purchase decision.
Swift Resolution Following Criticism
The premier ultimately acknowledged the public discontent and moved quickly to arrange the sale back to Bombardier. The transaction represents a complete reversal of the original purchase, with Ontario recovering its full investment without financial loss on the aircraft.
The sale concludes a brief but contentious chapter in Ontario government procurement, highlighting ongoing tensions between official travel needs and public perceptions of appropriate spending during challenging economic times.
