Is Doug Ford’s Billy Bishop jet dream truly a boon to the economy or just hot air?

Ontario Premier Doug Ford revived plans to allow jets at Billy Bishop Airport, framing it as essential to Toronto's economic future. The move is opposed by some experts and residents who fear it will reshape Toronto's waterfront. Porter Airlines, which operates out of Billy Bishop, has long advocated for jets and upgraded its fleet to meet environmental regulations. Richard Florida, a University of Toronto professor, argued that expanding Billy Bishop Airport will enhance urban connectivity and contribute to local economic activity. However, other experts, such as Frédéric Dimanche, a professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, say Florida's conclusions may not apply to Billy Bishop, which will remain relatively small compared to Pearson Airport. Dimanche also disagreed with claims that expanding Billy Bishop will increase competition and lower prices, citing Porter Airlines' domination of gates.