Ontario Premier Doug Ford has decided to sell the province’s Bombardier Challenger 650, valued at $28.9 million, as soon as possible, reversing his initial plan to purchase a private jet for his travel needs. Ford acknowledged the public feedback that purchasing a plane was not well-received at this time, emphasizing the scrutiny faced by other premiers regarding private jet travel.
Comparisons were made to Quebec’s acquisition of three Challenger jets for $107 million, with Ford suggesting a perceived double standard. However, Quebec officials clarified that these planes were intended for medical evacuations rather than the premier’s use. This controversy has prompted a closer examination of Canadian leaders’ use of private aircraft for travel, whether through rentals or ownership.
A survey conducted by CBC News revealed that most premiers across Canada primarily utilize commercial flights for official engagements, reserving private or chartered flights for exceptional circumstances. Political science expert Lori Turnbull noted the challenge for premiers to justify private air travel, especially for intra-provincial trips, as it may be viewed unfavorably by the public.
The travel policies of various premiers were disclosed in response to inquiries. Premier Rob Lantz of Prince Edward Island exclusively uses commercial flights, adhering to an economy class booking policy except for flights exceeding five hours where no other options are available. Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia also opts for commercial flights, with one exception being a charter flight for a meeting in Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador, arranged by the federal government.
In New Brunswick, Premier Susan Holt travels commercially, as does Premier Tony Wakeham of Newfoundland and Labrador. Quebec’s premier utilizes chartered flights for private travel, with no dedicated government plane for exclusive use. Manitoba’s Premier Wab Kinew generally flies coach on commercial flights, occasionally resorting to charter flights for access to remote areas.
Premier Scott Moe of Saskatchewan and Premier David Eby of British Columbia prefer commercial flights, with occasional charter flights for specific needs. Alberta’s Premier follows a similar practice, with non-commercial aircraft usage subject to approval and disclosure to the Ethics Commissioner. Premier Currie Dixon of Yukon and Premier R.J. Simpson of Northwest Territories also rely on commercial flights for their travels.
Nunavut Premier John Main predominantly uses commercial flights but may opt for chartered planes if necessary, given limited air travel options in the region. Prime Minister Mark Carney travels on government aircraft for official and personal trips, adhering to RCMP security requirements and established protocols for safe transport, overseen by the Royal Canadian Air Force.
In light of these revelations, the emphasis remains on transparent and responsible use of public resources for official travel by Canadian leaders.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/premiers-private-flights-commercial-9.7171284)