Poilievre supports Toronto island airport expansion

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre says he supports Ontario’s plan to expand Billy Bishop Airport in downtown Toronto, calling it good for the economy, competition and convenience. Speaking near the airport on Sunday, Poilievre argued the project could reduce traffic between downtown Toronto and Pearson Airport and give business travellers easier access to the city’s financial district. He also said more competition in aviation could push Pearson to improve service. The Ontario government has introduced legislation that would give the province more control over land around the airport and allow changes to the longstanding agreement that has limited jets from using the island airport. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and some NDP MPPs have criticized the plan, warning it could affect the waterfront, nearby residents and public space. The province has not yet said how long the runway work would take or exactly what changes it plans to make.