Canada Marks 40 Years Since Air India Bombing with Renewed Pledge to Combat Terrorism
Prime Minister Carney honours victims of Air India Flight 182 on the 40th anniversary, pledging stronger national security and anti-terrorism efforts.
Ottawa, ON — Canada solemnly commemorated the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism on Monday, marking 40 years since the 1985 Air India Flight 182 bombing—the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history.
Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a statement honouring the 329 victims, including over 250 Canadians, who perished when the flight exploded midair off the coast of Ireland on June 23, 1985. The attack, orchestrated by Canadian-based extremists, remains a dark chapter in the country’s history.
“Forty years ago, innocent civilians, including over 250 Canadians, were killed in the bombing of Air India Flight 182. This terrorist attack remains the deadliest attack in our country’s history – one we must never forget,” said Carney.
The Prime Minister emphasized that remembrance must be accompanied by action. His government is bolstering Canada’s national security strategy through increased funding for defence, law enforcement, and intelligence-sharing with international allies.
“Canada’s new government unequivocally stands against terrorism, and we will deliver on our mandate of change to keep communities safe,” Carney added.
In recent months, the federal government has pledged to strengthen intelligence coordination and tackle emerging threats, including cyberterrorism and online radicalization, in coordination with G7 and NATO partners. Monday’s statement reaffirmed this commitment.
The annual day of remembrance honours not only those lost in the Air India bombing but all victims of terrorism in Canada and around the world. Memorial ceremonies were held across the country, including a wreath-laying at the Air India memorial in Toronto’s Humber Bay Park.
The tragedy of Flight 182 has shaped Canadian policy on terrorism and intelligence for decades. As Carney’s government now looks to a future of renewed global partnerships and domestic security reform, the legacy of those lost continues to guide national resolve.
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