Summary
On September 11, 2001, the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, became an unexpected refuge for thousands of passengers as the United States faced a national crisis. Following the terrorist attacks, air traffic was redirected, leading to 38 planes landing in Gander, which had a population of just 10,000. The local community responded with remarkable hospitality, providing shelter, food, and support to the bewildered travelers who found themselves stranded far from their intended destinations.
As the planes landed, Gander's mayor and air traffic controllers quickly mobilized resources to accommodate the influx of passengers. Volunteers from the town, including school bus drivers who had been on strike, returned to help transport the so-called "plane people" to various shelters. Local residents opened their homes, churches, and schools, ensuring that everyone had a place to stay and a warm meal. The spirit of generosity and compassion was palpable, as community members worked tirelessly to care for the needs of the stranded travelers.
In the days that followed, Ganderites organized activities to keep spirits high, including local tours and meals featuring traditional Newfoundland cuisine. The bonds formed during this time were profound, with many passengers and residents sharing their stories and experiences. The kindness shown by the people of Gander left a lasting impact, leading to friendships that would endure long after the crisis had passed.
The events of 9/11 in Gander have since been immortalized in the musical "Come From Away," which highlights the extraordinary humanity displayed during a time of fear and uncertainty. The legacy of that day continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of community and compassion in the face of adversity.
Show Notes
On 9/11, the United States closed its airspace worried about further attacks. That closed airspace meant hundreds of planes and thousands of passengers had to find a new destination.
Among them were 38 planes and 6,000 passengers who landed in the small Newfoundland community of Gander.
Their story has become one of the happier stories from that dark day.
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