In a dramatic turn of events involving the largest gold heist in Canadian history, Brink's security company is appealing a federal court ruling against Air Canada. The case, also noted as the sixth-largest gold heist in world crime history, saw a shipment of 6,600 gold bars stolen on April 17, 2023, at Toronto's Pearson Airport. This shipment, originating from Zurich, Switzerland, was under the care of Brink’s while Air Canada was responsible for securing the cargo.
Nine individuals, including several Air Canada employees, now face nearly two dozen charges related to the brazen theft. Brink's has since taken legal action against Air Canada, claiming that the airline failed to adequately secure the precious cargo. The security firm initially sought nearly $15 million in compensation following the heist.
Complications arose when Air Canada argued that Brink’s did not declare the monetary value of the gold bars on its waybill. However, Brink’s contended that it had made a "special declaration of interest" when it booked the cargo using Air Canada’s AC Secure service. This dispute over declarations and responsibilities culminated in a Federal Court ruling on January 20, 2025.
Federal Court Justice Cecily Strickland found Air Canada liable for the loss and ordered the airline to pay Brink’s 9,988 in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), an amount translating to over $18,600 Canadian. Despite this ruling, Brink’s is not satisfied and is now appealing the decision. The security company argues that the monetary limit of liability outlined in the Montreal Convention should apply to this case. As a result, Brink’s is seeking over $21 million (approximately $14,988,920.58 USD) from Air Canada.
The case continues to unfold as Brink's pursues greater compensation through its appeal. Both companies are entangled in a complex legal battle over accountability and financial liability concerning this high-profile heist.
