Toronto waterfront saved as Canada rejects Billy Bishop airport expansion

The federal government, through Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon, announced on 24 July 2026 that it will not support Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s proposal to expand Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport for jet operations. The decision follows a public‑consultation period that attracted more than 87,000 responses and cites concerns about elevated noise, significant environmental impacts, and the loss of public spaces such as Little Norway Park and Hanlan’s Point Beach, as well as potential interference with housing projects.

Advocates, including Tim Gray of Environmental Defence, warned that the plan would cause “massive destruction” of the Toronto Islands and undo decades of waterfront rehabilitation. MacKinnon said the government is now “exclusively” focused on approved safety upgrades already underway at the airport. Ontario officials, led by Transport Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria, say the expansion could generate up to $8.5 billion annually and create thousands of jobs, but the federal stance blocks any further development at this stage. Trade groups such as the Toronto Region Board of Trade called the move “disappointing,” emphasizing the need for a balanced evolution of the airport.

The province has indicated it will continue to pursue the project, but the federal rejection represents a decisive pause pending further review.