Story perspectives

Ontario Buys $650M Aircraft as Smoke Triggers Evacuation, US Tariffs

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Canadian military prepared to evacuate 600 Fort Hope residents by aircraft while Ontario minister asked federal government to have aircraft and crews ready.
Premier Doug Ford announced a $650 million plan to buy five helicopters and six aircraft as U.S. President Donald Trump said Canada would face tariffs because of smoke entering the United States.
Environment Canada warned smoke lowered air quality in Ontario, making Toronto the most polluted city on July 15.

History

Historical Context

In May 2016 a record wildfire forced the evacuation of about 88,000 Fort McMurray residents; Alberta declared a state of emergency and enlisted help from other provinces, notably 100 Ontario firefighters and four Quebec water-bombers. That inter-provincial effort informs Ontario’s present plan to air-lift 600 Fort Hope residents and Premier Doug Ford’s $650 million helicopter purchase amid trade-related funding pressures.

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Story summary

Canadian military prepared to evacuate 600 Fort Hope residents by aircraft while Ontario minister asked federal government to have aircraft and crews ready.
Premier Doug Ford announced a $650 million plan to buy five helicopters and six aircraft as U.S. President Donald Trump said Canada would face tariffs because of smoke entering the United States.
Environment Canada warned smoke lowered air quality in Ontario, making Toronto the most polluted city on July 15.

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