Twenty-five years ago, North American airspace faced closure due to terrorist attacks, causing numerous planes to divert to Newfoundland and Labrador on September 11, 2001. Local communities rose to the occasion, providing clothing, shelter, and food to the thousands of stranded passengers. The directive for planes to land wherever possible led to residents opening their homes and facilities to accommodate the unexpected guests.
Several individuals recall their experiences from that fateful day. Glenn Stanford, overseeing the Mile One Centre in St. John’s at the time, shifted gears from preparing for an NHL training camp to accommodating 4,000-5,000 stranded guests who were bussed in and stayed for several days. Reflecting on the events, Stanford praised the remarkable efforts of Gander and St. John’s in responding to the crisis.
Mac Moss, a college administrator in Gander during 9/11, recalls the college mobilizing teams to handle food, accommodations, and other logistics for the hundreds of people seeking refuge. Despite subsequent political tensions, Moss emphasizes the enduring friendships formed with the American passengers he assisted.
Larry Pittman, the airport manager at Goose Bay during the attacks, recalls the airport receiving numerous aircraft, necessitating the use of old airfield plans to manage the influx. He highlights the importance of providing stranded passengers with access to phones to connect with their families amidst the chaos.
Glen Yetman, an air traffic controller in Gander, remembers the chaotic day of rerouting and landing planes amid heightened security concerns. He commends the collaborative efforts of colleagues who volunteered to work, emphasizing the unpredictability and challenges faced on 9/11.
Looking back, these individuals recount the extraordinary circumstances and resilience displayed by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during a day that changed the world forever.
