The federal government has rejected the Ontario plan to expand Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on Toronto’s waterfront.
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon announced the decision after receiving more than 87,000 responses from local residents, most of whom opposed the proposal.
The focus remains on safety enhancements already approved for the airport, with completion targeted for mid‑2027.
A new customs pre‑clearance facility opened recently, following a $30‑million federal investment designed to strengthen the airport’s role as a transportation, economic and tourism hub.
The federal response emphasizes that no expansion will be pursued if it infringes on public spaces such as Little Norway Park or Hanlan’s Point Beach, or if it causes significant noise, environmental harm or blocks Toronto’s housing plans.
Meanwhile, federal projects such as the Toronto Pearson expansion, the first high‑speed rail network, and broader regional transit upgrades continue to move forward.
Ontario’s transportation minister has maintained that the airport expansion will contribute up to $8.5 billion annually to Canada’s economy, create thousands of jobs, and improve connectivity for travelers and businesses across the region.
The proposed expansion would involve taking over city‑owned lands under a tripartite agreement with the province and Ottawa, with the goal of meeting future travel demand and easing pressure at Toronto Pearson.
Debate remains over balancing economic benefits with protection of public spaces, noise control, environmental impact, and housing opportunities in the surrounding area.
