Ontario Premier Doug Ford is facing renewed criticism after newly released government records revealed he frequently used government aircraft for short domestic trips while Ontario officials were finalising the controversial purchase of a private jet for the premier.
Documents obtained through freedom of information requests show Ford took several short-haul flights across southern Ontario during early 2026, raising fresh questions about government spending and the province’s travel policies.
Records Reveal Series of Short-Haul Flights
According to the travel schedules, Ford flew between Toronto and several Ontario cities, including Windsor, Kingston, North Bay, and Ottawa, over a six-week period.
In each case, the premier travelled to attend official government announcements before returning to Toronto later the same day.
The premier also chartered a private aircraft for a multi-city business trip to Texas, visiting Houston, Dallas, and Austin before returning to Ontario.
His office said travel decisions are based on security requirements, scheduling, commercial flight availability, and access to Ontario Provincial Police aircraft.
Questions Raised Over Taxpayer Costs
The cost of operating the government aircraft for the short flights has not been disclosed.
Critics argue the repeated use of aircraft for destinations that are reachable by road suggests a growing culture of excessive government spending.
Opposition politicians questioned whether Ford had already begun behaving as though Ontario possessed its own executive aircraft before the controversial purchase became public.
Private Jet Purchase Draws More Attention
The travel records emerged alongside ongoing controversy surrounding Ontario’s attempted purchase of a Bombardier private jet.
Government documents indicate Ontario had already begun the purchasing process early in 2026, including making an initial payment before the deal eventually became public months later.
After widespread criticism, the provincial government later announced it had sold the aircraft back to Bombardier for the same amount it originally paid.
The transaction has continued to generate political debate over transparency, timing, and public spending.
Spending Controversy Expands
The flight revelations arrive while Ford’s Progressive Conservative government is already dealing with broader questions over taxpayer-funded expenses.
Several government members have faced criticism over hotel stays, travel expenses, and other spending claims, prompting renewed calls for tighter oversight of public funds.
Opposition parties argue the latest disclosures reinforce concerns about government accountability and spending priorities.
Premier Defends Travel Decisions
Ford has repeatedly maintained that he respects taxpayers’ money and says official travel decisions are made based on operational needs rather than convenience.
His office insists each trip was evaluated individually, taking into account security considerations and official scheduling requirements.
However, political opponents continue to call for greater transparency regarding government travel costs and the circumstances surrounding the now-abandoned private jet purchase.
