Ontario Moves to Expand Billy Bishop Airport with Proposed Legislative Changes
Billy Bishop Airport Expansion Plan Aims to Boost Capacity and Connectivity
The move is part of a broader strategy to increase aviation capacity in southern Ontario, reduce congestion at Toronto Pearson International Airport, and support economic growth through improved connectivity and job creation.
Province to Take Role in Tripartite Agreement
The government intends to introduce legislation in the upcoming spring session that would, if passed, allow Ontario to assume the City of Toronto’s position in the airport’s tripartite agreement and take ownership of city-controlled lands at the airport in exchange for compensation.
Premier Doug Ford said the proposal is aimed at unlocking the airport’s full potential.
“We’re unlocking Billy Bishop Airport’s full potential by expanding the airport so we can bring cheaper flight options, more routes and more convenience,” Ford said.
Special Economic Zone to Accelerate Expansion
As part of the plan, the province also intends to designate the airport as a Special Economic Zone, a move designed to streamline approvals and accelerate construction timelines while maintaining safety and environmental standards.
Officials say consultations with more than 130 First Nations have already taken place as part of the regulatory framework development, with ongoing engagement planned.
Billy Bishop Airport already serves communities across Ontario, from Thunder Bay to Sudbury and Windsor to Ottawa.
Expanding the airport will mean more routes and cheaper flights across the province, delivering on our plan to build a stronger, more resilient and more united… pic.twitter.com/mxHtSRZnCK
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) March 23, 2026
Meeting Growing Demand in the GTA
With Ontario’s population projected to reach over 20.5 million by 2051, the government says expanding aviation infrastructure is essential to support future growth.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said Billy Bishop Airport represents an underutilized asset in the province’s transportation network.
“Additional capacity will help meet future demand, strengthen connectivity and support jobs across Ontario,” Sarkaria said.
Currently serving about two million passengers annually, the airport is expected to grow significantly under proposed modernization plans, potentially handling up to 10 million passengers per year.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Billy Bishop Airport already contributes approximately:
- $900 million to Ontario’s GDP annually
- $1.8 billion in economic output
- 9,000 jobs across the province
With expansion, the airport’s economic contribution could rise to $8.5 billion annually by 2050, with the potential to support 23,000 construction jobs and generate up to $140 billion in economic output over 25 years, according to provincial estimates.
Proposed Modernization Plans
The Toronto Port Authority has outlined a modernization plan that includes:
- Allowing modern jet aircraft
- Runway enhancements to accommodate new aircraft types
- Upgrades to the terminal building
- Improved access to Toronto’s waterfront
Industry stakeholders say the expansion could strengthen Toronto’s position as a global business and tourism hub while improving regional connectivity across Ontario and North America.
Supporting Regional Connectivity
The airport also plays a critical role in essential services, including supporting Ornge air ambulance operations, which conduct more than 4,700 flights annually from the site.
Officials say expanding the airport would enhance access for northern and remote communities while supporting tourism, trade and business travel.
Balancing Growth and Infrastructure Needs
The proposal comes amid broader provincial investments in transportation infrastructure, including transit expansion, highway upgrades and regional connectivity projects.
The government says the expansion of Billy Bishop Airport is part of its plan to build a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy, with additional details expected in the 2026 Ontario Budget.
For more updates on transportation, infrastructure and economic development across Ontario, follow GTA Today.
