The federal government has rejected Ontario’s proposal to allow jet operations at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, dealing a significant blow to Premier Doug Ford’s agenda.Federal consultations concluded that a majority of Torontonians oppose the expansion, citing environmental, health, and noise concerns.This decision is separate from an ongoing runway buffer expansion approved last year under new Transport Canada rules.

Ford’s government passed legislation to take control of Toronto’s stake in the tripartite agreement involving the federal government and Toronto Port Authority.

While Ford claims Prime Minister Mark Carney supports the plan, Carney has only described it as an 'interesting vision' without formal endorsement.

The rejection highlights growing public resistance to industrial expansion in the downtown Toronto waterfront area, where residents prioritize quality of life over economic development.

The decision underscores the tension between provincial ambitions and federal environmental safeguards, with implications for future infrastructure projects in urban centers.