Canada rejects Ontario's plan to expand Billy Bishop Airport

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon announced that the federal government will not support Ontario’s proposal to lengthen and enlarge Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The decision follows public consultations that gathered more than 87,000 responses, with about 87 % opposing the expansion. The government said it will concentrate on approved safety upgrades slated for completion around mid‑2027.

Advocates praised the move, citing concerns over pollution, noise, and irreversible damage to the Toronto Islands waterfront. Environmental Defence’s Tim Gray warned the project would require extensive lakefill and threaten recent lakefront rehabilitation efforts. Trade groups, including the Toronto Region Board of Trade, called the rejection “disappointing,” arguing the airport needs capacity growth to serve a rising population.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s plan to extend the runway by 600 metres had drawn criticism over environmental impact and housing constraints. While the federal stance leaves the door open for future reconsideration, it emphasizes protecting public spaces such as Little Norway Part and Hanlan’s Point Beach.