The flight never happened. Ontario’s newly acquired jet, quickly dubbed “Air Ford One,” remained grounded before ever carrying a passenger on official business. Premier Doug Ford’s attempt to justify the $28.9 million purchase of a pre-owned Bombardier Challenger 650 sparked immediate and intense backlash.
Initially, the premier defended the acquisition as a strategic investment, a tool to facilitate economic growth and secure vital meetings. He argued the cost was significantly less than similar purchases made by Quebec and the federal government. However, the public’s response proved swift and overwhelmingly negative.
Within days, Ford reversed course, issuing a statement acknowledging the public’s concerns. He conceded that the timing was not right for such an expenditure, especially given the financial pressures faced by many Ontarians. The “Gravy Plane,” as critics quickly labeled it, was officially up for sale.
The province had only recently taken delivery of the 2016 jet, and it’s believed neither Ford nor any government officials ever used it. The decision to sell came after a weekend of mounting criticism from opposition leaders and everyday citizens struggling with rising costs of living.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles condemned the purchase as “outrageous,” highlighting the disparity between a $30 million luxury plane and the financial hardships faced by Ontarians. The premier’s initial rationale – that the jet would boost the economy – quickly lost traction in the face of public outrage.
The purchase seemed particularly incongruous with Ford’s carefully cultivated image. Known for his down-to-earth persona and preference for driving, the idea of a “private” jet felt at odds with his brand as a man of the people. It echoed past controversies, like the appointment of Ron Taverner as OPP commissioner and the Greenbelt land swap.
Ford’s retreat demonstrated a pattern: a willingness to abandon initiatives that face strong public opposition. While the jet’s maiden voyage was cancelled, the premier did manage to earn some political points for ultimately responding to the concerns of his constituents.
He will be traveling to the Future of Business Summit in Ottawa by more conventional means. And, perhaps, a potential buyer for the now-available corporate jet will be in attendance, ready to discuss a purchase with the premier himself.
