The Ontario government has sold a $28.9-million private jet back to Bombardier, less than a week after the purchase sparked significant public outcry. Premier Doug Ford announced the decision on Wednesday, confirming that the aircraft was sold for the exact same price the province paid.
A Rapid Reversal
The used Bombardier Challenger 650 was acquired just days before its purchase was revealed last Friday. Following immediate backlash from the public, advocacy groups, and opposition parties, the government opted to return the plane.
Premier Ford stated that the aircraft was sold back to Bombardier at the same price, asserting that “no one lost anything” in the transaction. A government source noted that the province had spent several months working to acquire the jet and had expected it to be operational by the end of July.
Justification and Criticism
Ford defended the initial purchase by citing the vast size of Ontario and the necessitate for secure travel to the United States to push back against President Donald Trump’s trade war. He emphasized that “time is money” when it comes to traveling from point A to point B.
When questioned about the airport limitations, Ford pointed to the cancellation of commercial flights and the difficulty of reaching locations such as Sault Ste. Marie and Kenora. However, he did not directly address the finding that the jet was incompatible with the majority of the province’s runways.
Political Fallout
Opposition parties quickly seized on the purchase, with critics labeling the aircraft “the gravy plane.” NDP Leader Marit Stiles described the move as a “greedy scheme,” noting that the jet was not mentioned in last month’s budget.
Stiles contrasted the luxury purchase with current struggles in the province, citing nurses being cut, teachers receiving layoff notices, and families struggling with the cost of groceries and gas.
Potential Next Steps
The controversy may lead to further official scrutiny. Marit Stiles has written to Ontario Auditor General Shelley Spence to request a comprehensive audit and investigation into the purchase and subsequent sale of the jet.
Such an investigation could examine the financial stewardship, transparency, and overall value for money associated with the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the Ontario government pay for the private jet?
The government purchased the used Bombardier Challenger 650 for $28.9 million.
Why did the government decide to sell the plane back to Bombardier?
The decision followed a public outcry and backlash from advocacy groups and opposition parties after the purchase was revealed.
What was the primary criticism regarding the plane’s utility?
A CBC News analysis showed the jet could only have used about 10 per cent of recognized airports in Ontario due to runway length restrictions.
Do you believe the government’s decision to sell the plane at the original purchase price resolves the public’s concerns?
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