Billy Bishop jet opponents turn planned protest into celebration after Ottawa rejects expansion
Residents and local officials in Toronto celebrated after the federal government rejected a proposal to allow jet aircraft at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The decision followed a public consultation that showed overwhelming opposition to the expansion due to noise and environmental concerns.
Why it matters
This decision highlights the power of local advocacy and public consultation in shaping urban infrastructure and environmental policy.
Norm Di Pasquale is the Program Manager of No Jets T.O. and helped organize the harbourfront rally on Sunday. Nic Hotchkiss/The Globe and Mail
What was meant to be a protest against expanding Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport instead became a celebration on Sunday, after the federal government announced on Friday that it rejected Ontario’s proposal to allow jets at the downtown waterfront airport.
Hundreds of people gathered at Harbour Square Park on Toronto’s waterfront carrying the blue “No Jets T.O.” signs that had dotted front lawns across Toronto for months. Instead of chanting against the proposal, attendees cheered, hugged neighbours and celebrated what they called a hard-fought victory after months of campaigning.
“This was going to be a rally, and instead it’s a celebration,” said NDP MPP Chris Glover, who represents the waterfront riding of Spadina–Fort York.
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