Bomb Threats Force Ground Stops at Major Canadian Airports

On July 3, 2025, six major Canadian airports—Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Vancouver—faced temporary ground stops due to bomb threats targeting their air traffic control facilities.

NAV Canada, the country’s air traffic control authority, confirmed the incidents, which led to significant disruptions.

Bomb Threats at Canadian Airports

The bomb threats targeted air traffic control towers and related facilities, prompting immediate action. NAV Canada evacuated the affected sites and implemented ground stops to ensure safety.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and local law enforcement, including the Sûreté du Québec in Montreal, launched investigations. Authorities assessed the threats and found no suspicious devices, allowing operations to resume gradually.

The ground stops began early on July 3 and varied in duration. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration reported that Montreal and Ottawa lifted their ground stops by 7:40 a.m. ET.

Montreal’s targeted evacuation ended by 8:45 a.m. ET without impacting flight operations. Other airports, including Edmonton, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Vancouver, also resumed normal activities after safety checks. Toronto Pearson, Canada’s busiest airport, remained unaffected.

Ground Stops Cause Delays

The ground stops caused delays at several airports. Ottawa saw the most significant disruptions, with average flight delays of 70 minutes. Montreal experienced shorter delays, averaging 26 minutes, while impacts at Edmonton, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Vancouver were minimal.

NAV Canada advised passengers to check with airlines for real-time updates, as some delays lingered into the day.

No flights were canceled, and no injuries or safety incidents occurred. The swift response from NAV Canada and law enforcement ensured that operations returned to normal quickly.

However, the event underscores the importance of preparedness for unexpected disruptions when traveling.

Motive Behind Threats

Details about the bomb threats remain limited due to ongoing investigations and security protocols. The RCMP has not disclosed the source or motive behind the threats.

Authorities confirmed that no immediate danger was found, but the incidents highlight the vulnerability of critical infrastructure like airports to hoax threats.

Investigations continue to determine whether the threats were coordinated or isolated.

What Should Travelers Do?

If you’re traveling through Canadian airports, stay proactive to avoid disruptions. Here are some tips:

• Check Flight Status: Contact your airline or visit their website for real-time updates on delays or changes.
• Arrive Early: Allow extra time at the airport to account for potential delays or enhanced security checks.
• Stay Informed: Monitor news outlets or official airport social media for updates on security incidents.
• Be Patient: Delays can be frustrating, but safety is the priority. Cooperate with airport staff and authorities.

Conclusion

This incident reflects the challenges of balancing security and efficiency in air travel. Bomb threats, even if hoaxes, disrupt operations and cause inconvenience.

Airports and authorities typically follow set protocols to protect passengers and staff, even when threats lack credibility.

NAV Canada’s response demonstrates a commitment to safety, but it also highlights the continued need for robust systems to counter such disruptions.

As investigations continue, travelers should remain vigilant and prepared. By staying informed and flexible, you can navigate unexpected challenges and ensure a smoother journey.