On September 11, 2001, as terror brought the skies to a standstill, nearly 7,000 passengers (fondly known as the ‘Plane People’) from 95 different countries found themselves grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada—a dot on the map with a giant heart. With no warning, this town of 9,300 people welcomed strangers from around the world into their homes, their schools, and their lives. They cooked 285,000 meals, gave up beds, hugged frightened children, and offered a shoulder to cry on. In those uncertain days, Gander showed the world what it means to be human.
A Town Transformed Overnight
Gander International Airport, once one of the busiest in the world due to its strategic transatlantic location, had faded into quiet routine by 2001. But on that fateful September day, 38 wide-body jets rerouted from U.S. airspace landed in Gander, bringing with them approximately 7,000 bewildered and frightened passengers. In an instant, the sleepy town became a global crossroads. Despite the shock, there was no chaos—only calm resolve and compassion. Local officials and volunteers mobilized immediately, proving that small communities could make an enormous impact in times of crisis.
Operation Yellow Ribbon
Canada’s Operation Yellow Ribbon was a coordinated effort to safely land and house flights that had been diverted during the closure of U.S. airspace. While airports across the country participated, none bore the responsibility quite like Gander. The community accepted its role with grace. From government workers to schoolteachers, from grocery clerks to retirees—every able hand stepped up. Townspeople brought essentials to the terminal and beyond, helping travellers connect with family, process the horror of what had occurred, and find solace far from home. Transportation, meals and beds were quickly assembled akin to military precision. The food donations were placed on their ice rink which was affectionately known as the largest walk in refrigerator. The compassion and quick thinking of this small community and surrounding communities is astounding.
Welcoming the World
What set Gander apart was not just the logistics, but the soul behind the response. The people of Gander and nearby towns like Appleton and Gambo didn’t just provide shelter—they welcomed strangers as family. Locals cleared out linen closets, bought diapers, cooked massive batches of stew and sandwiches. They offered phone lines, internet access, and warm hugs. Pharmacists filled prescriptions free of charge. A local Costco truck was rerouted and its contents—mattresses, food, toiletries—were donated. Everyone gave something. It wasn’t about charity—it was about community.
Diverse Passengers, Shared Humanity
The 7,000 travellers came from 95 countries–though a large percentage were American citizens returning home, others were from Europe, Asia, and Africa. Among them were business professionals, tourists, children, students, and newlyweds. There were also 19 animals in the cargo holds—including two rare bonobo apes en route to a sanctuary. Volunteers ensured these animals were treated with the same care as the passengers, providing fresh air, food, and affection. For five days, cultural and language barriers melted away. In their place: music, laughter, shared grief, and a sense of global togetherness that many had never experienced before.
Stories of Compassion
The stories that emerged from Gander are now the stuff of legend. Beulah Cooper opened her home to multiple passengers and comforted a couple awaiting word about their son, a New York firefighter. Hannah O’Rourke, that grieving mother, would return to Gander many times, eventually calling it her “second home.” Local vet Dr. Morris cared for all 19 animals—including a pregnant cat who gave birth during the stay. Passengers and hosts traded recipes, photos, and emails. Children made friends. Strangers became soulmates. Gander’s then-Mayor, Claude Elliott, reflected in an interview with 60 Minutes Australia: “On the first day, we had 7,000 strangers. On the third day, we had 7,000 friends. And on the fifth day, we had lost 7,000 family members. That’s how close we became to those people.” To this day, many still keep in touch, visit one another, and celebrate the anniversary of those five unexpected days.
A Legacy of Kindness
The extraordinary generosity of Gander inspired the Broadway musical Come From Away, which immortalized the town’s kindness and brought the story to international stages. The title itself is a Newfoundland term for visitors, used affectionately. The production has helped share Gander’s story with millions, turning it into a timeless symbol of hope and unity. Even more moving, the proceeds from early performances were donated to scholarship funds and community causes, extending the circle of goodwill even further. Click here for tour dates.
Reflecting on Today’s World
As the world continues to grapple with division, displacement, and polarisation, Gander’s story resonates more deeply than ever. It is a gentle reminder that when fear spreads, kindness must rise to meet it. Canadians showed that in the face of darkness, the simple act of welcoming a stranger can light the way. There were no politics in Gander that week—only people helping people. In today’s climate, that example stands in quiet contrast to the isolationist rhetoric dominating headlines elsewhere. Gander invites us all to choose empathy over apathy.
Firsthand Accounts
For those wishing to witness the impact of Gander’s actions, the following videos offer real testimonials:
- You Are Here: A Come From Away Story – A powerful documentary featuring the real people behind the musical.
- Come From Away: Real People Behind the Story – Interviews with passengers and locals.
- 9/11: Operation Yellow Ribbon – A Canadian documentary highlighting the full scope of the operation and Gander’s central role.
Remember, the people of Gander did not wait to be asked. They did not hold back. They met tragedy with tenderness and transformed fear into fellowship. Their actions continue to ripple through the years—proof that when the world stops, humanity can still move forward. They didn’t just shelter the world. They embraced it. And that, in every way, is the Canadian way.
Be like Gander.
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet.
Safe and mindful travels!