Passengers trapped on a commercial flight with environmental and health dangers at US International Airport. Their plane diverted twice due to weather, stranding them for nearly an entire day. The crash brought international attention to Gander, a town of over 12,000 in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. This town garnered national attention for its historical involvement in September 11 emergency landings in 2001.
That day, on the morning of the diversion, the flight had taken off from one of those five big U.S. cities. In the end, it was headed for an international. Because of poor flying conditions, the pilot decided to divert to Gander International Airport. This would be the first, and only, diversion of the day. Unfortunately, as the day played out, they had to turn around again, stranding those passengers for much longer.
Gander’s Role on September 11
Gander, Newfoundland, is a small town with a large and wonderful history. It was critical to our nation’s response during the tragic and horrific events of September 11, 2001. On that day, soon after Canadian and American airspace closed in the wake of those terrorist acts, more than 30 planes were diverted to Gander. The town’s airport was turned into an emergency landing space, taking in thousands of passengers suddenly left without a flight.
The local community came out in force, with unprecedented displays of hospitality, feeding and sheltering the newly-homeless. This unexpected turn of events catapulted the small town of Gander onto the world stage. It highlighted the town’s impressive capacity to do crisis communications well—even when things get dangerous. Last week’s flight diversions have brought the town’s historic legacy—as well as its current impacts—into sharp focus. Passengers stopped to consider the importance of their new, if transitory, home.
The Recent Diversion Incident
The flight diversion that made headlines last week started with an unexpected landing at Gander International Airport later in the day. Passengers were able to disembark for a moment before the crew discovered even more issues that required a second diversion. Confusion ensued as travelers learned they would remain on board for an extended period, with limited information regarding their next steps.
All along the way, passengers were baffled and enraged by the lack of clear communication from the airline. Even in those dire conditions, heroes emerged—all showing strength and community as they stood by in hopeful anticipation to hear a news. The incident opened the door to reevaluate air travel procedures and rethink travel standards. It brought light to how airlines manage unexpected diversions, particularly to remote areas such as Gander.
Community Response and Support
Even with the frustrations experienced by the passengers, Gander’s community was once more known for its overwhelming desire to help those in need. The community responded quickly, with local residents and even airport staff donating food, blankets, and pillows to make sure passengers were comfortable during their prolonged stay. This could mean everything from feeding them snacks and healthy refreshments to keeping them comfortable waiting for updates on their flights.
In many ways, the event was a tribute to the spirit of Gander, and the care and compassion that Canadians extended during previous crises. Residents of each community brought their own rich histories and stories to bear. This inspired a new wave of pride in their communities’ history and her legacy of kindness.
