TORONTO — The federal government has rejected the Ontario government’s proposed expansion plans for Billy Bishop City Airport.

Transportation Minister Steven MacKinnon posted a statement on X at just after 8 p.m. on Friday, saying the federal government’s focus for the Toronto airport for now lies exclusively on YTZ’s approved safety enhancements.

Minister MacKinnon said Ottawa “will always work collaboratively with our partners in studying 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,” he said.

Talk of expansion and jet aircraft at BBTCA is a hot potato that’s been tossed around for more than a decade, and most recently was touted by Ontario Premier Doug Ford. Jets are coming to Billy Bishop “one way or another,” said Ford this past spring, when YTZ expansion talk reached a fever pitch. At that point Prime Minister Mark Carney said Ford’s push for jets at YTZ was “a very interesting vision.”

Public consultations on the fate of the airport began in June. All Canadians were welcome to participate online or by mail. The submission deadline was today, July 24.

Minister MacKinnon said in his statement the consultations resulted in more than 87,000 responses. “Toronto voices will shape any future plans for Billy Bishop Airport,” he said. “Through this public consultation, we have listened to feedback on a range of issues, including transportation, economics, environmental protection, noise, housing and quality of life.

“It is not just about what we build, but how we build. We are building with and for Canadians.”