Ontario Premier Doug Ford Agrees to Sell $21m Private Jet Following Outcry

Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford has decided to sell a private jet he recently acquired, amid public criticism over the cost of the purchase. The aircraft, a used Bombardier Challenger 650, was bought for C$28.9m ($21m; £15.5m), sparking debate about its value. Ford’s office initially defended the acquisition, stating it would be used for official travel, including meetings in the U.S. to counter Trump-era tariffs. However, the decision drew immediate backlash from political rivals.

On Sunday, Ford issued a statement confirming the jet’s sale. “Despite the best of intentions, I have heard and agree that now is not the right time for the expense of a government plane,” he said. The province is collaborating with Bombardier and other partners to expedite the process. The plane, manufactured in Canada in 2016, will no longer be part of the government’s fleet.

“Doug Ford is turning the plane around mid-air for an emergency landing because he got caught living like a rockstar on your dime,” said Marit Stiles, leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party, in a social media post.

Interim Ontario Liberal Leader John Fraser criticized the purchase, claiming it reflects Ford’s desire to “live like a billionaire” with “your money.” “Trying to buy a private jet while families are struggling says everything you need to know about Doug Ford,” he posted.

A taxpayers’ advocacy group, the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, urged Ford to “stick to flying commercial.” Critics argue the acquisition was unnecessary, especially as the premier’s approval ratings stand at 31% according to an Angus Reid Poll. This figure is among the lowest in Canada for a leader who recently secured a third consecutive majority government.