With hundreds of planes in the air on 9/11, Canada had minutes to respond

On the fateful morning of September 11, 2001, thousands of aircraft were already airborne over the western North Atlantic, carrying over 85,000 people. Canada's Transportation Minister David Collenette was giving a speech at a Montreal conference when he learned of the terrorist attacks and quickly headed to Ottawa. As the United States closed its airspace, hundreds of planes were in the air over Canada, with a plane entering Canadian airspace every 90 seconds. Canada had only minutes to respond.

Without hesitation, the country shut down its airspace and instructed about 270 planes to turn back across the Atlantic to Europe. The remaining planes had to land quickly, with many directed to Atlantic Canada's airports, which have large runways from World War II. Others were sent to major cities like Montreal and Vancouver. Collenette was amazed by the swift cooperation of aviation professionals and citizens in safely landing all the planes and keeping passengers secure.

Gander, a small town with a population of 9,000, played a crucial role. When all the planes landed there, the town's population nearly doubled, and everyone was looked after. Canadians across the country also showed remarkable support by welcoming the stranded passengers, providing shelter, food, and care. Over 230 planes were directed to land in various locations, with many Canadians opening their homes and offering assistance.

This unity in the face of tragedy is remembered and honored in various events across Canada to commemorate the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks and to show appreciation for the support Canadians provided to their American allies.