Canadian Pacific Air Lines Flight 21 was a scheduled flight from Vancouver to Calgary that tragically ended in disaster when it was bombed while in flight. The aircraft, a Douglas DC-8, was carrying 52 individuals when it exploded mid-air near 100 Mile House, British Columbia. The bomb's detonation was linked to a conspiracy involving organized crime, harking back to a time when hijackings and airline safety were becoming pressing issues in the aviation sector. The investigation revealed that the bomb was concealed in a bag aboard the aircraft, leading authorities to suspect deliberate foul play.

Following this catastrophic event, the Canadian government and aviation authorities took significant steps to enhance security measures. Inspections and regulations were tightened at airports, addressing vulnerabilities within the commercial aviation framework. The immediate impact of the bombing rippled through the travel industry, prompting airlines worldwide to reassess their security protocols as fears of similar attacks increased.

In the aftermath, tributes were paid to the victims as families mourned the loss of their loved ones. The incident served as a chilling reminder of the potential dangers in air travel during an era of expanding gateways in aviation. This led to a surge in awareness regarding the importance of passenger safety and heightened scrutiny of luggage and cargo on flights.