The government of Ontario plans to introduce legislation that would allow it to assume the City of Toronto’s role in the agreement governing Billy Bishop Airport, alongside acquiring city-owned land at the site in exchange for compensation.
The proposed changes relate to the tripartite agreement that currently oversees operations at Billy Bishop Airport, located on Toronto’s waterfront. By replacing the city in this arrangement, the province aims to advance plans to expand and modernise the airport.
The government has indicated that legislation will be introduced during the spring session of the Ontario Legislature. If approved, the province would take ownership of land currently held by the City of Toronto as part of the airport site.
Premier Doug Ford said:We’re unlocking Billy Bishop Airport’s full potential by expanding the airport so we can bring cheaper flight options, more routes and more convenience to the millions of people from across Ontario who use this airport every year. With an upgraded airport on the waterfront, Toronto and Ontario will be able to compete with world-class cities across the globe, supporting tourism and business travel across Ontario and creating thousands of new jobs for Ontario workers.
Ahead of construction, the province also plans to designate the airport as a Special Economic Zone. This status is intended to streamline regulatory approvals while maintaining existing safety and environmental standards.
The proposed expansion is linked to projected population growth, with Ontario expected to reach more than 20.5 million residents by 2051. The government argues that additional airport capacity will be required to meet future demand and maintain the movement of people and goods.
Billy Bishop Airport currently handles around two million passengers annually and offers connections to more than 20 destinations in Canada and the United States. It is considered the province’s third-busiest airport and supports regional travel, as well as essential services, including medical transport flights operated by Ornge.
The Toronto Port Authority has proposed a modernisation plan that includes accommodating newer jet aircraft, modifying runway infrastructure, upgrading the terminal, and improving access to the waterfront. Under these proposals, passenger numbers could increase to as many as 10 million per year.
RJ Steenstra, President and CEO, Toronto Port Authority, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport said:Our vision for Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is rooted in modern aviation technology, operational excellence and a commitment to ensuring that progress brings tangible benefits to the communities we serve. For us this means expanding connectivity; responding to population growth and rising aviation demand; protecting access to northern and remote communities; strengthening tourism and trade; and embracing modern aircraft types that are cleaner, quieter and more efficient. We welcome the opportunity to work collaboratively with the province of Ontario to secure the future of the airport, which is a valuable asset for Toronto and the region.
Economic estimates provided by the province suggest that the airport currently contributes approximately 900 million CAD to gross domestic product and supports around 9,000 jobs. Longer-term projections associated with expansion indicate increased economic output and employment in construction and related sectors.
