“We’d never get any accidental tourists to Newfoundland.”
Suddenly,38 commercial planes and four military aircraftwere diverted to Gander International Airport.
Welcoming in the global community became etched in its DNA.
Credit: Courtesy of Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism
“Security wasn’t there at the time, so we’d mingle with the passengers.
Indeed, the events of 9/11 unveiled the global compassion woven into the community’s culture.
“In Newfoundland, 99% of the population are huggers.”
Courtesy of Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism
“Our house is always open, quite frankly,” he said.
And they were just one of the families who did so throughout the region.
The unusual coming together of strangers put everyone on a level playing field.
Courtesy of Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism
“They were all being fed the same kind of buffet-style food.
“They were looking for whales and icebergs we don’t have whales and icebergs in Gander.
But they left with the biggest impression being the experience they had with the people they met.”
Courtesy of Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism
“We’re very cognizant of what precipitated all the positive attention,” he said.
And our people responded instinctively.”
Looking back on what happened 20 years ago now comes with mixed emotions.
Courtesy of Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism
“I don’t know that the people here have changed,” Farwell said.
In all likelihood, they’ll invite you to their house.”
