Island ferries free all August for kids, youth and seniors after Billy Bishop expansion blocked
Mayor Olivia Chow announced the promotion Thursday to thank residents who supported protecting the waterfront from Ontario's proposed airport expansion.
Sources · local media reports
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Toronto is making Island ferry rides free for children, youth under 19, and adults over 65 throughout August — a thank-you to residents who opposed Ontario's plan to expand Billy Bishop Airport.
Mayor Olivia Chow announced the promotion Thursday, framing it as recognition for the public campaign that helped convince the federal government to block the expansion. Last Friday, Canada's Transportation Minister Steven MacKinnon announced Ottawa would not support the province's airport plan, citing feedback on transportation, economics, environmental protection, noise, housing, and quality of life.
The free ferry program applies to round-trip tickets in the Child, Youth and Older Adult category. Chow and Councillor Ausma Malik, who introduced the motion, both attended a waterfront march Sunday where thousands celebrated the federal decision. The city has not said whether the free ferry promotion will extend beyond August or what the program will cost the city.
Will the city face any revenue shortfall from the free ferry program, or is this cost absorbed elsewhere in the budget?
Will free ferry rides continue beyond August?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Who gets free Island ferry rides in August 2026?
Children, youth under 19, and adults over 65 receive free round-trip ferry tickets to the Toronto Islands throughout August 2026.
Why is Toronto offering free ferries this August?
Mayor Olivia Chow announced the promotion as thanks to residents who opposed Ontario's proposed expansion of Billy Bishop Airport, a campaign that helped convince the federal government to block the plan.
When did the federal government reject the Billy Bishop expansion?
On July 25, 2026, Canada's Transportation Minister Steven MacKinnon announced Ottawa would not support Ontario's airport expansion plan.
