The federal government says it won’t support Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s plan to expand Billy Bishop Airport to allow jets to take off and land there.

In a post on the social media platform X, Transport Minister Steven McKinnon says the government will focus exclusively on “approved safety enhancements” for the airport and Toronto residents will have a say in future plans for the facility.

MacKinnon said the government received more than 87,000 responses to its consultation on the airport.

“Toronto voices will shape any future plans for Billy Bishop Airport,” he added. “It is not just about what we build, but how we build.”

The minister said Ottawa will always work collaboratively with its partners to “study the region’s connectivity needs and protecting the interests of local residents.”

“However, we will not pursue any plans that infringe on treasured public spaces like Little Norway Park or Hanlan’s Point Beach, result in elevated noise, have significant environmental impacts, or hinder Toronto’s ability to build much-needed housing.”

McKinnon said the airport is a critical part of Canada’s transportation network.

“As we ensure its future as a vital transportation, economic, and tourism hub for Toronto, it is important that we do it with and for Canadians,” he said.

Mayor calls on province to return land to city

In a statement on Friday night, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow thanked Prime Minister Mark Carney and McKinnon for listening to local residents.

“Thank you to everyone who spoke out, shared your voice, and stood up for our community. Your relentless advocacy has made a difference,” Chow said.

“Now that this expansion is not moving forward, we are calling on the Province to return the City’s land. Together, we can continue working to protect our waterfront for future generations.”

Ford had said he hoped to quintuple annual passenger traffic from around two million to 10 million at the island airport.

The province passed legislation in May to take Toronto’s place in an agreement that governs the airport and to take over city-owned lands on the adjacent waterfront and the Toronto Islands.

The bill received royal assent in June.

Minister says province to ‘work to advance’ expansion

Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said in a post on X on Friday night that the provincial government still has plans for the airport.

“We look forward to continuing to work to advance the expansion of Billy Bishop Airport,” Sarkaria said.

“The benefits are clear: the project will contribute up to $8.5 billion to Canada’s economy every year, create thousands of jobs, and improve connectivity for millions of travellers and businesses across Ontario, North America and beyond,” he said.

Sarkaria said the plan would ensure the project “protects public spaces, including the Toronto Islands, addresses potential noise and environmental impacts, expands and improves Little Norway Park, supports new housing opportunities in the area, and delivers lasting benefits for local communities.”