Gander Airport: A Tribute to Resilience and Community 25 Years After 9/11

Twenty-five years have passed since Gander Airport became an unexpected refuge during the chaos of September 11, 2001. This small Newfoundland town, with a population of just 10,000, welcomed nearly 7,000 passengers and crew members from 38 flights diverted from U.S. airspace, providing warmth and hospitality in a time of uncertainty.

Brian Mosher, a local resident and TV reporter, documented the extraordinary events as they unfolded. “There were 7,000 different reasons why people had to get home,” he recalled. “We were their shoulders to cry on.” The townspeople, known as “come from aways,” embraced the stranded travelers, offering food, shelter, and companionship, turning Gander into a temporary home for many.

A Legacy of Aviation

However, Gander Airport’s significance stretches far beyond its role during 9/11. Established in the late 1930s, it was once the world’s largest airport and a key military hub during World War II. Positioned strategically on the Great Circle Route, Gander facilitated transatlantic flights, welcoming aircraft from Europe and the Soviet Union long before jet engines made such journeys commonplace.

In 1959, the opening of the Gander Airport International Departures Terminal marked a new era. This modernist structure showcased Canadian art and design, transforming Gander into a glamorous gateway for celebrities, world leaders, and travelers alike. The terminal became a cultural hotspot, frequented by figures like Marilyn Monroe and Albert Einstein, who would often unwind at the Big Dipper, the airport’s iconic 24-hour bar.

A Modern-Day Museum

Today, Gander Airport maintains a sense of nostalgia and charm. After a recent renovation, the former terminal has been transformed into a museum that preserves its mid-century allure. Visitors can admire the terrazzo floor, the famous mural by Kenneth Lochhead, and exhibits highlighting the airport's storied past, including unusual cargo shipments and memorable celebrity encounters.

Reg Wright, President and CEO of Gander International Airport, emphasized the airport's ongoing importance to the community, stating that it supports one in five jobs in Gander. As the town reflects on its past, the legacy of Gander Airport continues to inspire both locals and visitors alike.

Source: www.cntraveler.com