When United States airspace was closed on September 11, 2001, hundreds of international flights destined for the U.S. were redirected to Gander International Airport in Newfoundland, Canada, dramatically transforming the small town for a day. Gander, a community of approximately 9,000 residents, suddenly became host to around 7,000 stranded passengers, more than doubling its population in a matter of hours.
Gander’s role as an emergency landing site has historical roots dating back to the 1930s, when it served as a crucial refueling stop for transatlantic flights. At one point, it was considered the largest airport globally due to the size of its runways and capacity. The airport building, constructed when Newfoundland joined Canada, features mid-century architectural touches and artworks, and despite a decline in regular air traffic by the early 2000s, it was preserved following local efforts and recognition by Heritage Canada.
On 9/11, as news of the attacks unfolded and US airspace was shut down, Gander quickly adapted to accommodate the influx of diverted flights. Passengers were processed manually, then transported by buses to local high schools, churches, and community centers where residents mobilized to provide shelter, food, and comfort. The town’s longstanding tradition of hospitality was evident as locals opened their doors and offered support to travelers from around the world.
Officials and residents recall the overwhelming scale of the operation and the emotional impact on both visitors and hosts. Oz Fudge, the town’s police officer at the time and one of the individuals featured in the musical "Come from Away," remembers the fear and confusion among the passengers, as well as the warm embrace they received from the community. Similarly, Rhonda Lane, a longtime airport employee, describes the sudden surge in activity as planes were grounded and passengers arrived, many unfamiliar with Newfoundland’s remote location.
Stories of kindness and compassion emerged throughout the event. One notable example involved a local woman who invited a stranded passenger to shower and rest at her home while she worked, reassuring him that material possessions could be replaced. Another involved Fudge responding to a call from a police officer in Atlanta, tasked with locating a crew member stranded in Gander, whom he found and comforted. This gesture was later dubbed “the hug that was heard around the world.”
Today, the airport remains a symbol of resilience and solidarity, with a dedicated exhibit that includes artifacts related to 9/11, such as a piece of steel from the World Trade Center. The event left a lasting impression on Gander and its residents, highlighting the town’s unique place in aviation history and its remarkable response during one of humanity’s darkest days.