Ontario recently sold a $28.9-million private jet back to Bombardier, as confirmed by Premier Doug Ford. Analysis by CBC News revealed that the purchased Bombardier 650 Challenger jet, now slated for sale, would have been limited to using only about 10% of recognized airports in the province due to its need for a 5,650-feet takeoff distance at maximum weight.
The Premier’s plans to utilize the private jet for travel around northern Ontario and various government functions have come into question given the jet’s operational constraints. Cross-referencing runway data with recognized Ontario airports, CBC found that only 19 out of 179 operational airports in the province could accommodate the Challenger jet based on runway length and takeoff requirements.
Among the few airports suitable for the Challenger jet is CFB Trenton, while the majority are commercial airports including Toronto Pearson, Thunder Bay, and others. Despite plans to expand Billy Bishop airport’s runway to accommodate the Challenger jet, the Premier’s office declined to respond to inquiries regarding the limitations of the private jet.
Aviation experts note that the Challenger 650’s takeoff distance can vary based on weight, with fewer passengers or less fuel allowing for shorter runway usage. Comparatively, the Ontario Provincial Police’s Pilatus PC-24 jet requires a shorter takeoff distance and can access significantly more airports in Ontario.
As the province moves forward without the Challenger jet, Premier Ford expressed intentions to return to commercial flights, OPP planes, and occasional charters for his travel needs. The decision to sell the private jet was made following public backlash and scrutiny from various groups.