June 23, 2025
Parteek Singh Mahal
Forty years ago, 329 people on board Air India Flight 182 were killed when a bomb exploded inside the aircraft over the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Ireland.
On June 23, 1985, Flight 182 departed from Toronto, en route to Mumbai, India. Almost simultaneously, a related bombing at Japan’s Narita International Airport killed two baggage handlers. The bombing of Flight 182 remains the largest mass murder in Canadian history, a terrorist attack planned and executed within the country.
Of the 329 victims, 268 were Canadians, and one-third were children.
On this solemn occasion, Prime Minister Mark Carney stated: “Forty years ago, innocent civilians, including over 250 Canadians, were tragically killed in the bombing of Air India Flight 182. This terrorist attack remains the deadliest in our nation’s history – one we must never forget.”
“As we mark the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, we remember the victims of the Air India bombing and all others who have lost their lives to terrorism.
“Canada will continue to work with our allies and partners, at home and around the world, to better detect, prevent, and respond to the threat of terrorism and violent extremism. We are also increasing funding for national security, defence, and law enforcement, and enhancing intelligence sharing with our allies.
BC Premier David Eby also issued a statement: “Forty years ago today, 329 innocent people boarded Air India Flight 182 on Canadian soil but never made it to their final destination. They were entire families, businesspeople, and students with their whole lives ahead of them. Tragically, they became victims of the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history.”
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